Lake Weir High teacher honored

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital CEO Alan Keesee presented Martina Sayan with the Thank a Teacher award during on Oct. 31, along with members of the Marion County School Board and PEFMC representatives. [Photo courtesy HCA Florida Ocala Hospital]

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital, with the Public Education Foundation of Marion County, have recognized Martina Sayan of Lake Weir High School with the Thank a Teacher award.

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital CEO Alan Keesee presented Sayan with the award during an event at the school on Oct. 31. Joining him for the presentation were Marion County School Board members and PEFMC representatives.

Sayan was selected from a pool of nominees compiled and judged by previous winners of the Golden Apple Award, the highest honor given to public school teachers in Marion County.

Throughout the 2024-25 school year, students, families and staff members are encouraged to share their stories about a particular teacher’s inspiring actions, supportive words, creative lessons or overall positive impact. Teachers selected as a result of nominations from the public receive $250 and an email containing the messages.

To learn more, go to pefmc.org/thank-a-teacher