September 13, 2026
WHEREAS, adult education and family literacy programs equip Michiganders with the literacy, academic, technical, digital, and employability skills they need to advance in their education, careers, families, and communities; and,
WHEREAS, more than 500,000 working-age Michiganders ages 18-64 do not have a high school diploma or recognized equivalent, and adult education provides these individuals with opportunities to earn credentials, learn English, strengthen foundational skills, and prepare for further education and employment; and,
WHEREAS, adult education and family literacy programs provide flexible, community-based services that meet learners and families where they are, helping them build the skills needed to achieve their goals and participate fully in their communities; and,
WHEREAS, adult education serves as a critical pathway to postsecondary education, career training, and good-paying, family-sustaining jobs, strengthening Michigan’s workforce and economy; and,
WHEREAS, adult education supports Michigan’s Sixty by 30 goal by helping adults build the foundational skills and credentials needed to continue their education and training; and,
WHEREAS, adult education and family literacy programs are important partners in advancing Michigan’s Statewide Workforce Plan by expanding access to education and training and connecting Michiganders to employment opportunities; and,
WHEREAS, during this week, we recognize the educators, administrators, volunteers, community organizations, employers, and partners who support adult education and family literacy and encourage Michiganders to engage with these programs and opportunities; and,
WHEREAS, Michigan is stronger when every resident has the opportunity to build the skills needed to succeed in education, employment, and community life;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim September 13-19, 2026, as Adult Education and Family Literacy Week in Michigan.
