Substitute for House Resolution No. 254.

            A resolution to declare November 11-15, 2013, as School Psychology Week in the state of Michigan.

            Whereas, Children have a natural desire and propensity to learn and the Michigan constitution provides that school districts provide for the education of its pupils, and it is imperative that society invest in education to adequately support the needs of children and youth; and

            Whereas, This year’s theme "We Are All In! Teams Work!" helps our students and school focus on helping students, their parents, and our colleagues recognize, employ, and enhance team related skills within the school community, their academics, and their lives; and

            Whereas, Team-building skills are critical for students to learn for success in school, in the workplace, and in other parts of their lives in our communities; and

Whereas, Children's mental health is closely linked to their successful learning and
development; and

            Whereas, Appropriate prevention and early intervention strategies and adequate support
services minimize negative outcomes, such as academic failure, social and emotional difficulties,
behavioral problems, bullying and school violence, mental health problems, dropping out of school, and suicide; and 

            Whereas, School psychologists are specially trained to help parents and educators identify and reduce risk factors; create effective, caring schools; access helpful community resources; and implement research-driven prevention and intervention strategies to foster healthy child development and academic success; and

            Whereas, School psychologists deliver needed mental health services and academic supports in the natural context of school, which is familiar to children and thus feels comfortable to them. It is appropriate that the Michigan Legislature recognize the importance and vital role that school psychologists play in the academic and personal development of Michigan's children; and

            Whereas, The Michigan Association of School Psychologists have provided expertise to state policymakers on issues important to children and their families, such as parental involvement in education, the prevention of bullying, and access to special education services; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare November 11-15, 2013, as School Psychology Week in the state of Michigan. We urge all citizens to recognize this occasion; and be it further

Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the Michigan Association of

School Psychologists.