This week’s Michigan Lottery Excellence in Education winner Gina Richards from Burton.
According to Richards’ nominator, Richards returned to college in her late 30s to obtain her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan. She goes to students’ activities from sports they play, and even treats them to roller skating parties.
“They need it,” Richards said. “I was that student who needed somebody. As an elementary student, I was not a great student. My life has benefited so much from having a great mentor, and I just want to pay that forward.”
Gina from West Bend Elementary receives a $2,000 check from lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli. Excellence in Education Awards sponsored by the Michigan Lottery have provided more than $29 billion to public education since 1972.