'Thank a Teacher' recipient for February recognized by HCA Florida Ocala and HCA Florida West Marion Hospitals

Ocala, FL – HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital, with the Public Education Foundation of Marion County (PEFMC), are pleased to announce Emily Gray of Belleview High School in Belleview as the latest recipient of the “Thank a Teacher” award.

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital CEO Alan Keesee recognized Gray during an event at the school on Feb. 27. Marion County School Board member Dr. Allison Campbell, PEFMC Executive Director Meghan Magamoll, and other school, foundation and civic leaders also attended.

“A good education is the foundation for our students to create a better life for themselves and our community,” said Keesee. “We at HCA Florida Healthcare sponsor this program to recognize those dynamic educators who passionately guide students toward a brighter future.”

Gray, who teaches the college-level AICE English Literature program for seniors, was selected from a pool of nominees compiled and judged by previous winners of the Golden Apple Award, the most prestigious honor given to public school teachers in Marion County.

Gray’s nomination for the award noted that she is a dedicated and compassionate teacher who cultivates creativity, critical thinking, and resilience among her students, while “helping them navigate the challenges of adolescence with grace.” The nomination added that Gray’s impact “resonates far beyond the classroom walls,” as she serves as a “beacon of inspiration and positivity within her community.”

Gray’s award features a special twist.

She is a graduate of Belleview High School, and as a senior in the AICE English Literature program, she told her then-teacher, Leta Edwards, that she aspired to become a teacher and would return to Belleview High School to take over the program from Edwards when she retired.

Gray said she was “very overwhelmed, excited, shocked, and very happy” by receiving the award.

As for fulfilling her pledge to her role model and mentor, she added, “This curriculum is everything I ever wanted. I still talk to Leta every now and then. She’s still really proud of me. I still have her library here. I feel like I’m doing her justice.”  

Magamoll noted, “This initiative, thanks to HCA Florida Healthcare, is not just about recognizing individual teachers, but also about fostering a sense of community. It’s our chance to come together, celebrate, and say a collective ‘Thank You’ to the educators who shape our world.”

During 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 their overall positive impact. 

Teachers selected as a result of nominations from the public will receive $250 and a special email containing those heartfelt messages. To learn more about the “Thank a Teacher” program and the nomination process.