SARASOTA, FL — Hale Law has launched its 2026 Hale Helps™ Teacher of the Year campaign, inviting the public to nominate outstanding K-12 educators in Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte counties. Nominations are open through March 29, 2026, and the winning teacher will receive a free cruise courtesy of Expedia Cruises of Sarasota.
The Hale Helps™ Teacher of the Year award is part of the firm's broader community initiative that also includes a scholarship program and a back-to-school backpack giveaway. The campaign allows parents, students, fellow educators, and community members to recognize teachers making a lasting impact in their classrooms and schools.
To nominate a teacher, visit halelaw.com and complete the online nomination form with the nominator's name and email, relationship to the teacher, the teacher's name, school, and county, and an optional personal story. Only one nomination per person is allowed, and the nomination period ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on March 29. The five teachers with the most verified nominations become finalists and will be announced on April 7.
Teachers in these counties invest significant time and energy into shaping students' lives, and this award offers a meaningful way to recognize that dedication. Even a single nomination can help bring well-deserved attention to the work inside their classrooms.
The 2026 Hale Helps™ Teacher of the Year receives a free cruise for two, provided as a $1,000 cruise credit through Expedia Cruises of Sarasota, covering cruise fare, port taxes, fees, and prepaid gratuities. After nominations close, finalists will be determined based on verified totals. Public voting runs online from April 7 through April 26, and after verification, the winner will be announced on April 28.
Now in its third year, the Hale Helps™ Teacher of the Year award continues to grow, recognizing outstanding local educators. The program underscores Hale Law's commitment to supporting students, families, and educators across Southwest Florida. In addition to this award, the Hale Helps™ initiative includes a scholarship for students and a backpack giveaway providing school supplies to local families each year.
Hale Law, founded in 2018, is a Sarasota-based personal injury firm representing individuals and families in motor vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, premises liability, and wrongful death. The firm operates eight regional offices and works on a contingency fee basis.
