Whereas, Excellence in education is dependent on a safe, secure and peaceful school environment where one can learn without fear; and,

Whereas, The safety and well-being of students, teachers, and school staff are threatened by crime and violence such as substance abuse, gangs, bullying, and vandalism that can take place 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 to generally make schools safe and secure; and,

Whereas, By working together with leaders in the fields of education, law enforcement, government, and business the issue of school safety can be brought to the attention of the public to identify, develop, and promote innovative solutions for safer learning environments;

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim the week of October 19, 2009, Michigan Safe Schools Week in Michigan.  I encourage the citizens of Michigan to work together to substantially promote the efforts that provide our schools the necessary tools for a positive and safe learning environment.