Whereas, Schools make substantial contributions to the future of America and to the development of our young people as knowledgeable, responsible and productive citizens; and,

Whereas, Excellence in education is dependent on safe, secure and peaceful school settings; and,

Whereas, The safety and well-being of many students, teachers and school staff are unnecessarily jeopardized by crime and violence, such as substance abuse, gangs, bullying, poor discipline, vandalism and absenteeism in our schools; and,

Whereas, It is the responsibility of all citizens to enhance the learning experiences of young people by helping to ensure fair and effective discipline, promote good citizenship, and generally make schools safe and secure; and,

Whereas, All leaders, especially those in education, law enforcement, government and business should eagerly collaborate with each other to focus public attention on school safety and identify, develop and promote innovative answers to these critical issues; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim the week of October 17, 2004, as Michigan Safe Schools Week and I urge all citizens of Michigan to recognize the need to substantially promote efforts and provide our schools with a positive and safe learning climate.