[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 9 (Wednesday, February 2, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E154]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING CONTRIBUTIONS OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

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                             HON. TIM RYAN

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 2, 2005

  Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of House 
Resolution 23, honoring the contributions and academic excellence of 
Catholic schools. The week of January 30-February 5 has been designated 
``Catholic Schools Week'' by the National Catholic Educational 
Association and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, to 
honor the educators, administrators, and over 2.5 million students at 
Catholic schools across the country for their continued dedication to 
the educational process.
  Catholic Schools Week began in 1974, and has annually promoted a 
different theme to guide its message. The theme for this year's 
Catholic Schools Week is ``Faith in Every Student,'' which demonstrates 
parochial educators'' commitment to melding the invaluable process of 
learning with the guiding principles of Catholicism. And as important 
as the intellectual development is, it pales in comparison to the 
lessons of compassion and service to others.
  As a beneficiary of a Catholic education, I deeply appreciate the 
role that the schools play. My Catholic educational experience gave me 
the desire to learn, the willingness to adapt, and the moral compass by 
which to lead. This education gave me the basis for the beliefs that 
continue to guide me today. Children in Catholic schools receive a good 
education from highly-qualified teachers and strengthen it with a daily 
commitment to faith, both in school and after the final bell rings.
  I wish our nation's Catholic schools continued success, and pledge my 
support as they continue their ongoing commitment to quality education.

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