November 17-23, 2020: American Education Week

WHEREAS, Michigan’s public schools provide every child the opportunity to learn, grow, and excel, so they can contribute to the society, economy, and citizenry of our state and nation; and,  

 

WHEREAS, all education employees, including teachers, counselors, librarians, and maintenance personnel, work tirelessly to serve our children with care and professionalism and to provide a safe and healthy learning environment for students, while parents and communities work hard to improve educational outcomes for children outside the school; and,  

 

WHEREAS, every child in Michigan deserves equal access to an education that meets their individual needs and prepares them to grow into responsible and confident adults; and,

 

WHEREAS, local, state, and federal lawmakers should support such necessities as inclusive and safe learning environments, counseling, mental health resources, and extracurricular activities, which are critical to helping students engage in learning; and,

 

WHEREAS, efforts should be supported to advance quality and excellence in public education and to implement continuous improvement and evidence-based practices; and,

 

WHEREAS, stable, equitable, predictable, and adequate funding for all public schools is necessary to ensure students have inviting classrooms and school libraries with up-to-date resources staffed with well-prepared and supported educators; and,

 

WHEREAS, per our statewide goal to increase the number of Michiganders with a postsecondary credential to 60 percent by 2030, I will continue to work with educators, parents, business leaders, and elected officials to ensure every child has access to an education that helps them reach their full potential and to a learning environment that offers a high-quality educational experience; and,

 

WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic has posed new challenges in education, and it is important that we continue to implement innovative solutions to ensure our students have the resources and support they need to learn and engage with their teachers and peers on digital platforms; and,

 

WHEREAS, during this week, we should recognize and show our gratitude for our state’s educators who shape the students of today into the leaders of tomorrow and reaffirm our commitment to supporting high-quality education that meets the needs of all students;  

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim November 17-23, 2020, as American Education Week in Michigan.