Dunnellon teacher receives 'Thank a Teacher' award from HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital
HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital, with the Public Education Foundation of Marion County (PEFMC), are excited to announce April Malott of Dunnellon High School in Dunnellon as the latest recipient of the “Thank a Teacher” award.
HCA Florida West Marion Hospital Chief Executive Officer Isaiah Zirkle presented the award to Malott during an event at the school on Feb. 27. Also in attendance were Marion County School Board Chairwoman Sarah James, Ed.D., Vice Chairwoman Lori Conrad, School Board member Nancy Thrower, Marion County Public Schools Superintendent Danielle Brewer, PEFMC Executive Director Meghan Magamoll and other representatives of the foundation and school faculty.
Malott teaches algebra and is Dunnellon High School’s reigning teacher of the year.
“April and teachers like her have a lasting impact on their students far beyond the classroom. They inspire growth in ways that often go unseen, but are still deeply felt, through their patience, dedication and belief in their students,” said Zirkle. “We’re happy to present her the ‘Thank a Teacher’ award, which for all of its recipients is a mechanism to display our profound gratitude for the time, care and passion they invest in helping our children.”
“Dedicated educators like April are an inspiration to the whole school community,” said Magamoll. “We are so thankful for this partnership with HCA Florida Healthcare because the ‘Thank a Teacher’ program enables us to expand that universe and cast a spotlight on great teachers to all of Marion County.”
Malott was nominated for the “Thank a Teacher” award by a fellow teacher at the school. “Thank you for everything you do. You are a fantastic teacher and make a difference in our students, especially those whose potential is hidden,” the nomination stated. “You are a great department lead and coworker that I look forward to seeing each day, because you are such a supportive and kind person.”
HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, HCA Florida West Marion Hospital, and the PEFMC present the “Thank a Teacher” award for each month of the 2025 — 26 school year. Winning educators are nominated by students, families, or staff members of Marion County Public Schools who call attention to the teachers’ devotion to education and the overall positive impact they have on their students and school communities.
Learn more about the “Thank a Teacher” program and the nomination process. Teachers selected for recognition will receive $250 and a special email containing those heartfelt messages submitted with their nomination.