[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 9 (Wednesday, January 15, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E41-E42]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         COMMEMORATING THE 2020 NATIONAL CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DARIN LaHOOD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 15, 2020

  Mr. LaHOOD. Madam Speaker, today, I recognize Catholic schools and 
parishes in our nation as we celebrate National Catholic Schools Week. 
As we approach this celebration, I am excited to announce that this 
year's theme is ``Catholic School: Learn, Serve, Lead, Succeed'' which 
resonates with my District which is home to thirty-five Catholic 
schools. Parochial education strives to instill faith, community 
involvement, and commitment in the classroom to shape each generation 
of students into well-educated, compassionate members of our 
communities. For forty-six years, Catholic schools have taken part in 
this tradition, which provides a time to reflect on and commemorate 
their contributions to education.
  Due to the National Catholic Educational Association's (NCEA) 
leadership, 99.2 percent of all students at Catholic schools graduate 
high school and 86.2 percent go on to four-year college. The NCEA's 
legacy of success is a testament to the quality education and guidance 
through faith that each student receives through their time in Catholic 
schools.
  As a proud graduate of St. Anne Grade School in East Moline, Illinois 
and Spalding Catholic High School in Peoria, Illinois, I am honored to 
co-sponsor legislation supporting National Catholic Schools Week. The 
religious values and foundation of faith instilled through Catholic 
schools guides my daily life and continues to strengthen my 
relationship with God. My wife and I are thankful that our three sons 
have the opportunity to attend Catholic schools, allowing them to be 
immersed in the Catholic faith, endure a quality education, and 
participate in community service.
  During National Catholic Schools Week, I extend my sincere blessings 
to Catholic

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schools across the nation and I am honored to promote their successes. 
This week is a time to reflect and celebrate on all the contributions 
that the National Catholic Education Association and the impact their 
schools provide to our communities. I look forward to continuing to 
support Catholic schools and carrying out God's mission of faith, 
service, and knowledge.

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