senate resolution no.102

Senators Geiss, Polehanki and Ananich offered the following resolution:

A resolution to recognize February 24-28, 2020, as Public Schools Week.

Whereas, 90 percent of American children attend public schools; and

Whereas, Each public school prepares young people to contribute to our society and economy; and

Whereas, Public education is the foundation of 21st century democracy; and

Whereas, Public schools are where students come to be educated as citizens of the United States; and

Whereas, Lawmakers should prioritize support for strengthening public schools and empower local education leaders to implement, manage, and lead school districts in partnership with educators, parents, and other local education stakeholders and learning communities; and

Whereas, Lawmakers should support necessities such as counseling, extracurricular activities, and mental health support; and

Whereas, Inclusive and safe, high-quality public schools are where children learn to think critically, problem solve, and build relationships; and

Whereas, Public schools provide an environment where all students can succeed, beginning in their earliest years and regardless of their background; and

Whereas, Every child has the right to a high-quality education that helps them reach their full potential; and

Whereas, Every student in the United States should have stable, equitable, predictable, and adequate funding to ensure welcoming classrooms, school libraries with up-to-date resources, and well-prepared and supported educators; and

Whereas, Educators include teachers, paraprofessionals, and principals who provide a well-rounded, complete curriculum and create joy in learning; and

Whereas, Our nation's school buildings should have class sizes small enough to allow students to receive one-on-one attention; and Whereas, Public schools should have access to support services including health care, nutrition, and after-school programs; and

Whereas, Parents and communities are working hard to improve educational outcomes for children across the United States; and

Whereas, Students, teachers, and professionals make public schools vital components of the community; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That we recognize February 24-28, 2020, as Public Schools Week; and be it further

Resolved, That we call upon Michiganders to support efforts to advance equity, continuously improve, and excel in public education.