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More Than ‘Cows, Sows and Plows …’
February 18, 2026
Stockbridge Agriculture Instructor Featured in Latest #proudMIeducator Video Teaches Variety of Skills
LANSING – Learning about “sows, cows and plows and corn” is important for students in Bob Richards’ agriculture class at Stockbridge Junior/Senior High School. But he wants them to learn more than that.
Teens need to learn soft skills such as public speaking, how to talk to adults, financial literacy, recordkeeping and technology, says Richards, who is featured in the latest Michigan Department of Education (MDE) #proudMIeducator video.
“The goal of our program is not for you necessarily to become a farmer,” Richards says in the video. “If you do, that’s great. If that’s what your dream is, what your passion is, this will help you get there. But what we really want you to be is accomplished young adults that can move on and do what you want to do in life.”
Richards, who is also Future Farmers of America advisor, has taught for Stockbridge Community Schools for over 20 years.
“Michigan is fortunate to have dedicated, highly qualified teachers such as Mr. Richards helping our students attain the technical and communication skills they need for good-paying and rewarding careers in areas such as agriculture,” said State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko. “Career and Technical Education enrollment continues to grow in Michigan thanks to the efforts of our educators in expanding secondary learning opportunities for all students, which is Goal 4 in Michigan’s Top 10 Strategic Education Plan.”
The #proudMIeducator campaign is aligned with Goal 7, increasing the number of certified teachers in areas of shortage.
The Proud Michigan Educator program is part of Michigan’s efforts to attract more people to a teaching career in Michigan. Those efforts include, but are not limited to, scholarships to future educators; stipends for student teachers; student loan repayments; Future Proud Michigan Educator EXPLORE grants; the Future Proud Michigan Educator LAUNCH program; Grow Your Own grant programs to help support staff and students to become teachers; Talent Together; expedited reciprocity for teachers and counselors certified in other states; a rural credentialing hub; and tuition reimbursement for special education teachers.
Since 2016, the #proudMIeducator campaign has featured educators and supporters of Michigan educators who share their passion for education. The full playlist can be found on the #proudMIeducator - YouTube page. If you know a proud Michigan educator who should be considered for a future video feature, please email MDE-PME@Michigan.gov.
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