Hale Law Opens Nominations for 2026 Teacher Recognition Program with Cruise Prize

Hale Law launched its 2026 Hale Helps™ Teacher of the Year campaign on March 1, inviting the public to nominate outstanding K-12 educators across Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte counties. Nominations are open now 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 Hale Law's broader Hale Helps™ community initiative, which also includes an annual scholarship program and a back-to-school backpack giveaway for local students. The Teacher of the Year campaign gives parents, students, fellow educators, and community members a direct way to recognize the teachers who make a lasting impact in their classrooms and schools.

Nominating a teacher is simple. Visit halelaw.com and fill out the online nomination form with the required information. Only one nomination per person is permitted. The nomination period ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on March 29, 2026. The five eligible teachers who receive the highest number of verified nominations will move on to the finalist round and will be announced on April 7. Teachers across Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte counties invest time, energy, and care into shaping the lives of their students each day. This award offers the community an opportunity to recognize that dedication in a meaningful way.

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. The credit covers cruise fare for two people, including port taxes, fees, and prepaid gratuities. After nominations close on March 29, Hale Law will confirm the five finalists based on verified nomination totals. Public voting will take place online from April 7 through April 26. Following vote verification and compliance review, the 2026 Hale Helps™ Teacher of the Year will be announced on April 28.

Now in its third year, the Hale Helps™ Teacher of the Year award continues to build on its growing success, recognizing outstanding local educators for their excellence in the classroom. The program is part of Hale Law's ongoing commitment to supporting students, families, and educators throughout Southwest Florida. In addition to Teacher of the Year, the Hale Helps™ initiative includes the Hale Helps™ Scholarship for students demonstrating academic achievement and community involvement, and the Hale Helps™ Backpack Giveaway, which provides school supplies to local families each year.