[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 19 (Wednesday, February 15, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E172]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 8, 2006

  Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota, Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of 
this resolution to honor America's Catholic elementary and secondary 
schools and to recognize Catholic Schools Week.
  America's Catholic schools provide a well-rounded education to the 
millions of children who attend them. More than 27 percent of the 
students are from minority groups and nearly 14 percent are non-
Catholics. With a strong tradition of social justice, Catholic schools 
combine strong academic rigor and moral development to prepare young 
people for life. Graduates of Catholic schools go on to make valuable 
contributions to our communities through their work, further education, 
and civic activities. It is important that we take this time to 
acknowledge the important role that Catholic schools play in educating 
students and supporting the communities in which they exist.
  The Catholic tradition continues to acknowledge the importance of 
reaching out to the most vulnerable in our society and Catholic schools 
follow that lead by incorporating moral development, civic engagement, 
and service learning in their curriculum. In this time of difficult 
decisions and budget priorities, the Catholic community reminds us of 
our commitment to all members of our society, especially the most 
vulnerable.
  I am very proud to honor the thousands of Catholic elementary and 
secondary schools all across the Nation for their vital contributions 
to the education of children and young people. Attending an all-day 
Catholic kindergarten gave me a strong start in my own life. Later, 
while attending the College of St. Catherine, I had the opportunity to 
student teach at St. Luke's Catholic School in St. Paul and saw 
teachers who worked so hard to enrich students' lives through academics 
and spiritual development.
  It is with gratitude for their commitment and efforts that I rise to 
thank Catholic schools, teachers, parents, and students for their 
valuable contributions to our Nation.

                          ____________________