Whereas, Providing for the education of Michigan’s school children is a fundamental duty of state government as enumerated in Article VIII, Section 2 of the State Constitution of 1963; and,

Whereas, The competitiveness of Michigan’s economy, the character of our society, and the richness of our culture depend greatly on the quality of instruction offered in Michigan’s public schools; and,

Whereas, 4,200 elected Michigan school board members demonstrate their dedication to public education through service on their local school boards; and,

Whereas, The service of these committed men and women represents the countless hours invested in making difficult decisions about budgets, personnel, curriculum, and other matters which affect teachers, parents, students, and taxpayers throughout Michigan; and,

Whereas, The theme of this year’s celebration is “School Boards Build Brighter Futures,” which reflects the efforts of thousands of men and women whose actions and decisions help to shape the education and future of our next generation; and therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim January 2006, as School Board Recognition Month in Michigan, and I encourage all citizens to recognize and appreciate the many contributions that School Board Members make to our children and to our communities.