[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 5 (Tuesday, January 29, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E61]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   RECOGNIZING CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. GEORGE W. GEKAS

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 29, 2002

  Mr. GEKAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the 
annual celebration of ``Catholic Schools Week.'' Each year, the 
National Catholic Educational Association and the United States 
Catholic Conference sponsor a week long celebration recognizing the 
outstanding educational contributions of America's Catholic schools. 
Catholic schools locally and nationally will mark this festive occasion 
by hosting many community, parish and school events.
  In Pennsylvania alone, Catholic elementary and secondary schools 
educate approximately 240,000 students yearly. These schools operate 
with complete devotion to each and every student, providing them with 
solid values and academic skills needed in becoming responsible 
citizens of Pennsylvania and the nation. Catholic institutions tout a 
95 percent graduation rate, and 83 percent of Catholic school graduates 
pursue higher degrees. A truly remarkable and impressive statistic.
  Not only do Catholic schools boast these high standards and excellent 
achievements, but fervently instill in their students the idea and 
necessity for commitment to family and the community. Most, if not all, 
Catholic students willingly provide countless hours of volunteer 
service to the local parish as well as the entire community. This only 
proves that Catholic schools students are strongly dedicated to their 
faith, values, family and community.
  President Bush recently signed into law a comprehensive education 
reform package emphasizing accountability, local control and 
flexibility, expanded options for parents, and funding for programs 
that work. Given Catholic schools record of success and standard of 
excellence, it is only fitting that these private institutions continue 
to serve as a model for public education reform in America.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I congratulate and 
express great appreciation to the nation's Catholic schools on the 
occasion of ``Catholic Schools Week.'' I especially salute the many 
Catholic school teachers, principals, and school administrators in my 
Pennsylvania Congressional district of Dauphin, Lebanon, Perry, 
Cumberland, and Lancaster for their hard work and dedication which has 
benefitted so many young people. My best to all the students in their 
continuing academic careers and future endeavors.