Honoring the Contributions of Catholic Schools
HONORING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS -- (House of Representatives - February 08, 2006)
Mr. LARSON of Connecticut. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 657, a resolution honoring the contributions made by Catholic schools nationwide. These schools provide students with an education that instills a lifelong development of moral, intellectual, and social values in America's young people.
Our Nation's Catholic schools provide excellent opportunities for learning. Today, nearly 50 percent of students enrolled in U.S. private schools attend Catholic schools. In Connecticut, over 39,000 students are enrolled at 148 Catholic schools throughout the State. Catholic schools provide educational opportunities to a broad cross-section of our society. With over 7,000 schools and current matriculating classes of greater than 2.5 million students, it is estimated that about 27 percent of students enrolled are minorities. Catholic schools also encourage greater levels of student-teacher interaction through their small class-size ratio. The 160,000 faculty that teach at these schools provide students with both an intellectually stimulating and values-based education.
As a former student of St. Rose's School in East Hartford, Connecticut, I would like to praise the outstanding efforts of the Sisters of Notre Dame for providing students with strong academic and moral values. The Catholic education I received at St. Rose's School has guided me throughout my career in public service. At St. Rose, I was taught the valuable lessons of good works toward others and society's special obligation to consider first the needs of the poor. The Catholic teachings have given me a valuable framework for life, and have enabled me to achieve personal and professional goals.
Again, I am proud to support H. Res. 657. As we celebrate Catholic Schools Week, we must honor the role these schools play in promoting and ensuring a brighter, stronger future for this Nation. I am proud that these schools continue to nurture students dedicated to their faith, to their values, to their communities and to their families. These schools develop the leaders of tomorrow with effective leadership and character.
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