A resolution supporting the contributions of Catholic schools in the United States and celebrating the 51st annual National Catholic Schools Week.
This is a non-binding Senate resolution that expresses congressional support for Catholic education and for National Catholic Schools Week. Authored by Senators Schmitt and Kaine, the measure recognizes the contributions of Catholic elementary and secondary schools to the U.S. education landscape. It highlights the schools’ academic excellence, diverse student body, and values-based education, and it designates the week of January 26 to February 1, 2025 as National Catholic Schools Week, with the theme “Catholic Schools: United in Faith and Community.” The resolution applauds the efforts of schools, students, parents, and teachers and affirms the role Catholic schools play in strengthening communities and the future of the United States. As a symbolic, non-binding declaration, the resolution does not authorize funding or create new policy. Instead, it publicly endorses the goals of Catholic education and acknowledges the theme chosen for National Catholic Schools Week, potentially shaping public discourse and illustrating support from the Senate for faith-based educational institutions.
Key Points
- 1The resolution expresses Senate support for National Catholic Schools Week and the collaborative effort of the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) in promoting it.
- 2It cites data on Catholic schools: about 1.7 million students, a 10:1 student-teacher ratio, strong high school graduation rate (98.9%), and 85.2% of graduates going on to 4-year colleges; it also notes a diverse student population (roughly 29.4% racial minorities, 18.8% Hispanic, 20.8% from non-Catholic families).
- 3The resolution notes the theme for National Catholic Schools Week 2025: “Catholic Schools: United in Faith and Community.”
- 4It emphasizes Catholic schools’ commitment to academic excellence, moral development, and community service as core values.
- 5It calls for continued dedication from Catholic schools, students, parents, and teachers across the United States toward a brighter future for the nation.