[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 14 (Thursday, February 14, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E145]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   RECOGNIZING CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

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                            HON. GENE GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 13, 2002

  Mr. GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize 
the annual celebration of Catholic Schools' Week.
  Each year, over 3,500 Catholic schools across our nation celebrate 
Catholic Schools' Week to recognize the educational and social 
contributions of America's Catholic schools. This year's 28th Catholic 
Schools' Week theme, ``Catholic Schools Where Faith and Knowledge 
Meet,'' exemplifies a major benefit of receiving a Catholic School 
education.
  Catholic schools foster their students with a strong sense of faith, 
spirit, and Christian service. These are important values which we must 
promote, especially in light of the events of September 11th. Catholic 
schools teach a diverse student body from all faiths and races. In 
fact, 25.6 percent of Catholic school students are minorities. In some 
inner-city schools, a majority of students are non-Catholic.
  It is important that we continue our strong support for Catholic 
Schools. Catholic education is internationally recognized for its 
academic excellence and emphasis on the development of the heart, mind 
and soul. We must promote the growth and continued success of Catholic 
schools by ensuring they have Internet access, abundant libraries and 
safe learning environments.
  I have worked closely with the Catholic schools in my district, such 
as helping provide Internet services to the St. Charles Borromeo 
Catholic School in Houston, visiting Catholic school facilities, and 
reading to students.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud of the contributions made by our nation's 
Catholic Schools. I would like to especially recognize the dedicated 
teachers, principals, school administrators and parents in my Texas 
Congressional district for their hard work and devotion.

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