Washington, D.C. - In honor of National Catholic Schools Week, U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood (R-IL) and Richard Neal (D-MA) reintroduced a bipartisan, bicameral resolution to commend Catholic schools for their contributions to our education system and society. The annual National Catholic Schools Week celebrates students, parents, teachers, and local communities that allow Catholic schools to thrive.

"As a proud graduate of Catholic grade school, high school, and college, I look forward to highlighting the achievements of Catholic schools in Illinois and across America each year during National Catholic Schools Week," said Congressman. LaHood. "I applaud the sixteen Catholic schools in the 16th District of Illinois and across the country, who invest in their student's academic and spiritual formation. My experience in Catholic schools helped me prepare for life experiences as a husband, father, and Member of Congress. I am proud to lead this effort to recognize their contributions."

"Catholic schools play a critical role in the development of our nation's youth, providing an affordable, quality education to a diverse body of 1.7 million students throughout the country," said Congressman Neal. "Prior to my career in Congress, I taught history at Cathedral High School in Springfield, Massachusetts. I have personally seen the commitment and achievements of Catholic schools in western Massachusetts both as an educator and as a father, and that is why I am proud to introduce this resolution.. As we approach the 50th year of celebrating National Catholic Schools week, let us recognize and thank our educators who continue to foster a safe and inclusive environment for learning."

Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Bob Casey (D-PA) have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

This year's National Catholic Schools Week is celebrated from January 29th to February 4th and recognized by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and the National Catholic Education Association. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a letter of support for this year's resolution, which can be read HERE.

The 16th District of Illinois is home to sixteen Catholic grade schools and high schools. Rep. LaHood attended grade school at St. Anne Grade School in East Moline, high school at Spalding Institute in Peoria, now Peoria Notre Dame, and Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa. He and his wife, Kristen, have three boys who currently attend Catholic schools.

Permalink: https://lahood.house.gov/2023/1/lahood-neal-introduce-resolution-to-honor-national-catholic-schools-week