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Honoring the Contributions of Catholic Schools

Date: Feb. 15, 2006
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Religion Education


HONORING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS -- (Extensions of Remarks - February 15, 2006)

SPEECH OF HON. BETTY McCOLLUM OF MINNESOTA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Wednesday, February 8, 2006

* Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota, Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this resolution to honor America's Catholic elementary and secondary schools and to recognize Catholic Schools Week.

* America's Catholic schools provide a well-rounded education to the millions of children who attend them. More than 27 percent of the students are from minority groups and nearly 14 percent are non-Catholics. With a strong tradition of social justice, Catholic schools combine strong academic rigor and moral development to prepare young people for life. Graduates of Catholic schools go on to make valuable contributions to our communities through their work, further education, and civic activities. It is important that we take this time to acknowledge the important role that Catholic schools play in educating students and supporting the communities in which they exist.

* The Catholic tradition continues to acknowledge the importance of reaching out to the most vulnerable in our society and Catholic schools follow that lead by incorporating moral development, civic engagement, and service learning in their curriculum. In this time of difficult decisions and budget priorities, the Catholic community reminds us of our commitment to all members of our society, especially the most vulnerable.

* I am very proud to honor the thousands of Catholic elementary and secondary schools all across the Nation for their vital contributions to the education of children and young people. Attending an all-day Catholic kindergarten gave me a strong start in my own life. Later, while attending the College of St. Catherine, I had the opportunity to student teach at St. Luke's Catholic School in St. Paul and saw teachers who worked so hard to enrich students' lives through academics and spiritual development.

* It is with gratitude for their commitment and efforts that I rise to thank Catholic schools, teachers, parents, and students for their valuable contributions to our Nation.

http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/D?r109:5:./temp/~r109SiuJXh::

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