It has been reported that Hispanics represent more than 20 percent of students enrolled in the nation's public elementary and secondary schools. 

President Barack Obama has proclaimed Sept. 16 through Sept. 22 as National Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week. 

"Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) have helped bring the dream of a college education within reach for many Hispanic students and their families, and this week, we celebrate the critical role these colleges and universities play in American higher education," the president said in a released statement. 

The president also said that across the U.S., HSIs are giving students access to a quality education and vesting in them a lifelong appreciation for intellectual inquiry. 

"Graduates of these institutions are already leaders in every part of our national life, and with these institutions graduating such a significant portion of Hispanic students, HSIs are helping move us closer to leading the world in college completion by 2020," he said.

Obama called upon on public officials, educators, and all the people of the United States to observe the week with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities that acknowledge the tremendous contributions these institutions and their graduates have made to the country.

"As we reflect on the contributions of HSIs, let us renew our commitment to preparing our future leaders -- from focusing on early childhood education to combating high school dropout rates -- and to supporting those institutions that equip students of all backgrounds to take on tomorrow's challenges," the president said. "By honoring this commitment, we uphold that most American idea: that with a quality education, a child of any race, faith, or station in life can overcome any barriers to achieve his or her dreams."