Every student should be fortunate enough to learn in an environment where they can freely express and value the opinions of those around them. For 43 years, Bruce Farquhar, agriculture instructor and FFA advisor at Altus High School, has promoted a classroom of mutual respect.

“It is only through self-expression that students can truly develop an unbiased attitude toward others and hone communication skills. It is equally important to this equation to maintain a mutually respectful culture, where all students value the opinions of others,” he said.

A valuable lesson Farquhar learned in his years teaching is that all students can learn. Involvement in activities whetherfor academics, sports, or FFA can be the motivation for students to experience success. His challenge is to find the motivation for each student.

“I have been fortunate to work with some of the brightest and most talented young people in Oklahoma. They have achieved the highest levels of recognition afforded to FFA members at the state and national levels.

“I am also blessed to work with the least among us, those students who struggle to find their way. These are the students who face challenges on a daily basis, challenges that no child should face. To them these successes can become life altering,” said Farquhar.

The most important piece of advice Farquhar wants the students at AHS to know is simple. “You are responsible for your growth as a student. Those skills you develop today will enable you to achieve your goals in life. The only job you have as a high school student is to explore your career options and then develop a plan to achieve those goals. Education is the foundation of economic growth, both individually and as a society,” he said.

Farquhar credits his career success to the dedication and personal sacrifice of his wife ReGina, and their son Jacob. The list of awards and achievements he has earned through the years is long, but it is his dedication to his community, his students and his family that truly makes him stand out.