WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Rep. Darin LaHood cosponsored a resolution commemorating National Catholic Schools Week and expressing Congressional support of Catholic Schools for their invaluable contributions to students, families, and communities across this nation.
During a statement on the House Floor Rep. LaHood shared, “I applaud these Catholic schools for making a difference in the lives of over 2 million students throughout our country; I applaud the educators who invest in their students’ academic and spiritual formation, and I applaud the 28 Catholic schools in my district that faithfully serve children in Central and West Central Illinois. Data shows that Catholic schools are often some of the highest performing educational institutions in their communities and in addition to such academic excellence, these schools instill faith-filled values. My own personal experience in Catholic grade school, high school, and college helped prepare me for my life experience as a husband, father, and in elected office. It is with deep gratitude that I recognize those who are shaping the next generation today.”
National Catholic Schools Weeks is celebrated each year during the last week of January, this year it falls from January 29th to February 5th. The 18th District of Illinois is home to 28 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, and then Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa. He and his wife, Kristen, have three boys whom currently attend Catholic schools.