September 21, 2026
WHEREAS, extracurricular activities provide students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, teamwork, confidence, communication, and personal responsibility; and,
WHEREAS, participation in extracurricular activities has been shown to positively impact students’ academic success, mental well-being, social development, and sense of belonging; and,
WHEREAS, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, students involved in extracurricular activities are more likely to have higher levels of academic achievement and school engagement; and,
WHEREAS, extracurricular involvement encourages students to discover their passions, explore future career interests, and become active members of their schools and communities; and,
WHEREAS, clubs, athletics, fine arts, volunteer organizations, academic programs, leadership groups, and other extracurricular opportunities create positive and supportive environments for youth growth and development; and,
WHEREAS, encouraging student engagement outside the classroom helps strengthen schools, communities, and future generations of leaders across the State of Michigan; and,
WHEREAS, Extracurricular Engagement Day serves as an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the students, educators, advisors, coaches, and organizations that make these opportunities possible;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim September 6, 2026, as EXTRACURRICULAR ENGAGEMENT DAY in the State of Michigan and encourage all residents to recognize the importance of student involvement and support opportunities that empower youth to grow, lead, and succeed.
