Maranatha Law names three Polk County teachers as Servant's Heart Award winners

Maranatha Law has named three Polk County educators as winners of its inaugural Servant's Heart Award after a community nomination and voting process that closed April 30, 2026. The Lakeland firm says the program is meant to spotlight teachers who build character, confidence and community beyond the classroom.

Why it matters: - The award puts a public spotlight on teachers whose work affects students, families and school culture across Polk County. - The contest turned community gratitude into cash awards for educators who were selected by public vote. - Maranatha Law is using the program to show a broader local commitment beyond personal injury cases.

What happened: - Maranatha Law announced the winners of its inaugural Servant's Heart Award, an "Inspiring Educator" recognition program for Polk County, Florida. - The nomination period was open to the community, and voting closed April 30, 2026. - Sherry Scott won first place and received $1,000. - Sarah Legutki placed second and received $500. - Rachel Hamic placed third and received $250. - The winners were chosen by public vote from a field of nominees.

The details: - Sherry Scott was recognized for her passion and patience in a culinary classroom. - Scott said the most rewarding part of teaching is seeing students reach an "AHA moment" and work together while learning and making memories. - Sarah Legutki was recognized for helping high school students build reading skills needed to graduate and succeed after graduation. - Legutki said watching students gain confidence and build meaningful relationships is one of the biggest bright spots in her life. - Rachel Hamic, a math teacher at All Saints Academy, was honored for encouraging a growth mindset and building a class culture that feels like family. - Hamic said she values the "aha moments" when concepts click and students support one another. - Maranatha Law is headquartered in Lakeland and also has offices in Fort Lauderdale, Safety Harbor, Kissimmee and Plant City. - The firm handles car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, slip-and-fall injuries, catastrophic injuries, wrongful death and other personal injury matters across Polk County and Florida. - The company also shared social links for LinkedIn and Facebook.

Between the lines: - The award helps Maranatha Law build local visibility through a community-facing program tied to education, not litigation. - Public voting and social sharing likely amplified participation and gave the firm a direct line to residents, alumni and school supporters. - The emphasis on servant leadership suggests the firm wants the award to reflect shared values, not just a one-time giveaway.

What's next: - Maranatha Law says it wants the Servant's Heart Award to become an annual tradition. - The firm plans to continue recognizing inspiring educators in future years. - Further community participation could expand the award's reach if the program returns in 2027.