EAST LANSING — The following statement can be attributed to MEA President Paula Herbart on Tuesday’s election victories by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and other friends of public education:

“Today is a great day for educators, students and parents across Michigan. Our fellow Michiganders turned out in huge numbers for a midterm to re-elect Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, choosing a brighter future where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

“Without a doubt, Gov. Whitmer has been the most pro-public education governor Michigan has had in decades. She listens to the voices of educators and parents, and she is working hard to provide our schools with the resources they need to help students succeed.

“Michiganders sent a clear message this election by rejecting extremism and instead voting for leaders who will work with educators — not against us. That includes re-electing Attorney General Dana Nessel and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, installing pro-public education majorities in the State House and Senate, and electing friends of public education to school boards across the state.

“Michigan voters sent clear marching orders to our elected officials: State and local leaders must work together — regardless of political party — to strengthen our public schools and light a brighter path forward for our kids.

“MEA members from across the state volunteered countless hours to help elect friends of public education up and down the ballot. Without their hard work, this victory couldn’t have been possible.

“Our work doesn’t stop. As educators, we will continue advocating for our students and schools. With the election behind us, elected officials must work to address the real issues facing our schools, including the educator shortage, the student mental health crisis and helping meet the needs of every Michigan student. With Gretchen Whitmer and other friends of public education leading our state, there’s light at the end of the tunnel and cause for some much-needed optimism.”