Whereas, Career and technical education provides Americans with a school-to-career connection for a well-educated workforce that fosters productivity in business as well industry and contributes to America's presence in the international marketplace; and,

Whereas, Career and technical education can improve the overall quality of learning by giving students practical and meaningful applications of basic skills such as reading, writing and mathematics; and,

Whereas, Career and technical education offers individuals lifelong learning opportunities, which can later provide them with additional career choices and satisfaction; and,

Whereas, The continuous efforts of career and technical educators is vital in preparing upcoming graduates for careers in this rapidly growing field;

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim February 2009 as Career and Technical Education Month in Michigan.  I urge all citizens to learn more about career and technical education, and to encourage our youth to get involved in this exciting field.