[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 141 (Friday, October 9, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1991]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


           IN HONOR OF CLEVELAND CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

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                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 8, 1998

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my best wishes to 
Cleveland Central Catholic High School (CCC) in Celebrating its 30th 
anniversary. From its opening in 1969, it has continuously honored its 
mission to provide an innovative educational opportunity to the 
students of the greater Cleveland area.
  The brainchild of Rev. John L. Fiala, this high school originated as 
a merger of four deeply rooted neighborhood Catholic high schools, 
Saint John Cantius, Saint Stanislaus, Our Lady of Lourdes and Saint 
Michael. His hard work resulted in a campus where each building 
retained its own identity while changing its educational curriculum to 
fit the plan of the merger. The buildings were renovated to house many 
structural changes, with labs and specialty rooms on each campus. 
Reverend Fiala fashioned an affordable high school experience for the 
1,600 students who attended Cleveland Central Catholic while providing 
them with excellent faculty and staff.
  Once the merger was established, the school began to expand and 
improve its programs, becoming a forerunner in education. It initiated 
the first State approved 3-year program in Ohio and instituted block 
scheduling, a concept that has been heralded to catapult education into 
the year 2000. Much of the school's success has occurred due to the 
unconditional support from the CCC Parents Club, the Booster Club, and 
the ongoing dedication of the faculty.
  Even though the academics have focused toward a more traditional role 
at CCC, there have been a number of evident changes. Advances in 
technology have brought the installation of computer labs and extensive 
staff training, access to the Internet, a video-conferencing lab, and 
integrated math and post secondary option programs.
  My fellow colleagues, please join me in celebrating the 30th 
anniversary of Cleveland Central Catholic High School. This institution 
provides a needed stability for the students who come through its 
doors. It has remained a unique educational experience that is sure to 
become even better in years to come.

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