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Honoring the Contributions of Catholic Schools

Date: Feb. 8, 2006
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Education


HONORING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS -- (House of Representatives - February 08, 2006)

02/08/06

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Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as the National Conference of Catholic Bishops once stated, ``Education fosters the dignity of a person and the building of a community.'' Today, I am honored to thank my friend, Congressman MARK KENNEDY, for his leadership in recognizing America's Catholic schools for their continued commitment to education, and I appreciate Congressman MIKE CASTLE for his managing of the resolution.

I know firsthand of the effectiveness of Catholic schools from my school visits in the Second District of South Carolina to the elementary schools of St. Mary Help of Christians in Aiken; St. Peter in Beaufort; St. John Newmann of Columbia; and St. Joseph of Columbia, where I have two godsons, Jackson Gossett and Joseph Fisera; St. Martin DePorres of Columbia; St. Peter of Columbia; and additionally, St. Francis by the Sea of Hilton Head Island, along with Cardinal Newman High School in Forest Acres, South Carolina.

For generations these schools have served as an origin of opportunity for millions of Americans by teaching a broad, values-added education. Catholic schools play a pivotal role in helping American children develop into responsible and productive members of society. Today, almost 8,000 Catholic schools are educating nearly 2.5 million students. Because of their excellent curriculum and strong emphasis upon values, these schools consistently outperform other public and private schools. Ninety-nine percent of Catholic high school students graduate, and 97 percent attend some form of postsecondary schooling.

Catholic schools also serve willingly in our communities. After Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita, Catholic schools in almost every State graciously welcomed displaced children from devastated areas without charging them for tuition, uniforms, books and supplies. Their recent generosity is simply another example of Catholic schools faithfully following the Gospel message. As we celebrate Catholic Schools Week, I join my colleagues in supporting the resolution expressing our sincere appreciation for America's Catholic schools.

In conclusion, God bless our troops. We will never forget September 11.

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