Whereas, The mission of Alternative Education in the State of Michigan is to lead, promote and support innovative learning experiences, and,

Whereas, Alternative Education sites are currently serving countless students and programs in the state, and,

Whereas, The Michigan Alternative Education Organization, STARS (Success, Teamwork, Achievement, Recognition, Self-Esteem), and the state organization for At-Risk-Youth in alternative education programs all help young people assure their roles in society by helping them complete their high school education and prepare for employment and higher education opportunities, and,

Whereas, The purpose of STARS is to help young people develop a respect for employment, education, and social skills, stimulate self-motivation and self-confidence as well as encourage skill development to provide a program of career-related activities which assist the student in making an intelligent choice of occupation, and,

Whereas, Through youth organization activities students build a cooperative and competitive spirit through individual and team responsibilities of citizenship, brotherhood and the American free enterprise system; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby declare the week of March 16, 2005, as Alternative Education and MAEO STARS Week.