Whereas, The skills demanded of today’s workforce require a lifelong learning experience; experience that must be nurtured through work-related learning activities and work-site training; and,

Whereas, The challenges facing our state and nation require coordinated efforts from business, labor, education, and government; and,

Whereas, Cooperative education is a learning approach used by schools and colleges that helps students gain competitive occupational skills based on business and industry standards by linking occupational instruction with carefully supervised training and performance on the job; and,

Whereas, Cooperative education benefits everyone by increasing workplace productivity, promoting student reasoning, and teamwork activities; encouraging continuing education which motivates potential dropouts to stay in school, providing transition from school to work; and exposing students to career exploration and planning opportunities; and,

Whereas, The Michigan Council for Cooperative Education encourages schools, colleges, and employers to collaborate and become more involved in expanding the educational environment beyond school by conducting training and planning seminars; and encourages all students to participate in cooperative education plans while in school; and now therefore be it

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim February 2006, as Cooperative Education Month in Michigan.