To mark the start of Catholic Schools Week, beginning January 29, and running through Feb. 3, U.S. Representatives Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Dan Lipinski (D-IL) today announced the introduction of H. Res. 57, “Supporting the Contributions of Catholic Schools,” a celebration and show of support for Catholic schools around New Jersey and the nation. 

     “Catholic schools are a critical part of our nation’s fundamental commitment to education and serve a cross-section of American students,” said Smith, who has supported similar legislation for many years. “Catholic high school graduation rates are an impressive 99 percent, with 87 percent of those graduates attending a four-year college or university.”

     National Catholic Schools Week is celebrated annually and is currently in its fourth decade, beginning in 1974. The theme this year is “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service,” in acknowledgement of the help the schools provide not just for their students, but the community as a whole.

     Thirty five other members of the House signed on as co-sponsors.

     “In the 25^th chapter of Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus counseled believers to live a life of selfless service to others and specifically asks that we feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, care for the sick and disabled, visit the prisoner and welcome the stranger,” Smith said. “It is in this spirit that Catholic schools instruct students and impart a commitment to serving those in need in our communities.”

     “In recognizing Catholic Schools Week, we honor the many teachers and administrators who sacrifice so much, in most cases working for less than they could earn elsewhere,” said Lipinski.