2023 House Resolution 21

Whereas, There are nearly 50,000 students attending more than 200 Catholic elementary and high schools throughout our great state; and

Whereas, The Constitution of Michigan states that “Religion, morality and knowledge being necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged”; and

Whereas, Catholic school parents pay tuition in addition to supporting their local public schools through their taxes; and

Whereas, Catholic schools comply with the same health, safety, and general welfare regulations required of public schools; and

Whereas, Taking into account Michigan’s minimum public school foundation allowance of $9,150 per pupil, Catholic schools save taxpayers more than $450 million in state spending annually; and

Whereas, Catholic schools instill a broad, values-based education, emphasizing the lifelong development of moral, intellectual, and social values in young people, making them responsible citizens of our state and nation; and

Whereas, Catholic schools educate many students who are non-Catholic, many students who are economically disadvantaged, and that a good education remains the single best way out of poverty; and

Whereas, With their traditionally high academic standards, high graduation rates, and commitment to community service, Catholic schools and their graduates make a positive contribution to society; and

Whereas, January 29-February 4, 2023, has been designated as Catholic Schools Week, with the theme “Catholic Schools: Faith. Excellence. Service.” as denoted by the National Catholic Educational Association and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops; and

Whereas, The common good of the state of Michigan is strengthened through the continued existence of Catholic schools; and

Whereas, Catholic schools provided nearly uninterrupted instruction to their students during state-mandated pandemic school building closures; and

Whereas, Catholic schools create a supporting partnership with each student’s family, encouraging the involvement of parents in the education of their children, so that Catholic schools form productive lives which benefit future generations; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare January 29-February 4, 2023, as Catholic Schools Week in the state of Michigan. We support the continued dedication of Catholic schools across Michigan toward academic excellence and the key role Catholic schools play in promoting and ensuring a brighter, stronger future for students; and be it further

Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the Michigan Catholic Conference with our highest esteem.