Joe Wilson: “as the National Conference of Catholic Bishops once stated, ``Education fosters the dignity of a person and the building…”

“as the National Conference of Catholic Bishops once stated, ``Education fosters the dignity of a person and the building of a community.'' Today, I am honored to thank my friend, Congressman Mark Kennedy, for his leadership in recognizing America's Catholic schools for their continued commitment to education, and I appreciate Congressman Mike Castle for his managing of the resolution. I know firsthand of the effectiveness of Catholic schools from my school visits in the Second District of South Carolina to the elementary schools of St. Mary Help of Christians in Aiken; St. Peter in Beaufort; St. John Newmann of Columbia; and St. Joseph of Columbia, where I have two godsons, Jackson Gossett and Joseph Fisera; St. Martin DePorres of Columbia; St. Peter of Columbia; and additionally, St. Francis by the Sea of Hilton Head Island, along with Cardinal Newman High School in Forest Acres, South Carolina. {time} 1600 For generations these schools have served as an origin of opportunity for millions of Americans by teaching a broad, values-added education. Catholic schools play a pivotal role in helping American children develop into responsible and productive members of society. Today, almost 8,000 Catholic schools are educating nearly 2.5 million students. Because of their excellent curriculum and strong emphasis upon values, these schools consistently outperform other public and private schools.…”