Designating January 28, 2001 through February 2, 2001 as "Catholic Schools Week" in the City of Philadelphia.

WHEREAS, The members of the Philadelphia City Council stand in tribute to the more than one hundred thousand students and teachers throughout the Archdiocese of Philadelphia who celebrate “Catholic Schools Week” with a variety of religious, social and recreational activities under the theme, “Beyond These Walls, a Tradition of Excellence”; and

WHEREAS, The first Catholic school in Philadelphia was established in 1782 at Saint Mary’s Parish, laying the foundation for what would become a model school system that was replicated throughout the country and, by 1850 there was a Catholic school in nearly every City parish; and

WHEREAS, The early schools struggled and survived the anti-Catholic sentiments and even the riots of the 1840’s. They expanded and improved under the strong leadership of Saint John Neumann and his successors, all advocates of a Catholic school system that has instilled high moral values and established rigorous standards of educational excellence; and

WHEREAS, Catholic schools in Philadelphia have proved themselves to be blueprints for success. Current figures indicate that nearly 85% of Catholic school graduates attend college and that another 6% attend technical and trade schools. These graduates continue to contribute to the social enrichment, moral stability and economic security of Philadelphia and the region. Graduates of Catholic schools have held every elective office possible in the City of Philadelphia; and

WHEREAS, This year we especially recognize Saint Maria Goretti High School for Girls, founded in 1955 and currently representing 25 parishes located throughout the City. Since the High School is located so close to Center City, the students have easy access to the cultural, business and educational opportunities offered by this most diverse community. Further, along with rigorous academic training, the young women absorb the highest ideals and deepest values of Catholic education. We are persuaded that this outstanding school stresses the dignity and worth of the individual, the love of God, educational excellence and spiritual and moral values; and

WHEREAS, Thus do the students bring pride to their families, distinction to the School and confidence in their futures; now therefore

RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we proudly designate the week of January 28, 2001 through February 2, 2001 as “Catholic Schools Week” in this City, in fitting tribute to the Catholic schools, whose high standards of excellence have educated individuals from all economic, social, ethnic and religious backgrounds. These schools have enhanced the lives of their students and families for two hundred and nineteen years.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Monsignor Philip J. Cribben, Secretary of Catholic Education for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia; Sister Sheila Foy, IHM, President of Saint Maria Goretti High School for Girls; and Jane M. Pellegrino, Principal of the School. We present this resolution as evidence of the high esteem and deep respect of this legislative body.

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