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, and vandalism in our schools; 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 solutions 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 November 6, 2005, 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.