Supporting the contributions of Catholic schools in the United States and celebrating the 52nd annual National Catholic Schools Week.

Bill Number: H.Res. 1022
Origin Chamber: House
Congress: 119th Congress, Session 2
Policy Area: Education
Status: Introduced
Latest Action: 2026-01-27: Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
Last Updated: 2026-04-10T16:28:04Z

AI-Generated Summary

Purpose

This House Resolution (H. Res. 1022) expresses congressional support for the contributions of Catholic schools in the United States and celebrates the 52nd annual National Catholic Schools Week, designated for January 25–31, 2026. It highlights the educational, moral, and community benefits of these schools without enacting any binding laws or policies.

Key Provisions

Recognition of Catholic Schools' Achievements: Affirms that Catholic schools provide high-quality education to about 1.7 million students, with a low student-teacher ratio of 10:1, a 98.9% high school graduation rate, and 85.2% of graduates attending four-year colleges. It notes diversity in student populations (e.g., 27.3% from racial minorities, 16.6% Hispanic, 21.7% non-Catholic) and emphasizes affordable access, especially in urban areas.
Emphasis on Values and Community Service: Praises schools for fostering moral, intellectual, physical, and social development, strong faith commitment, family values, and a dedication to helping others through community service.
Support for National Catholic Schools Week: Endorses the event, co-sponsored by the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). It applauds the 2026 theme, "Catholic Schools: United in Faith and Community", which underscores the integration of families into school life.
Congressional Actions: The House resolves to:
Support the week's goals in recognizing Catholic schools' vital role.
Applaud the NCEA and USCCB for the theme.
Endorse the commitment of Catholic schools, students, parents, and teachers to academic excellence and a stronger future for the U.S.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

None. This is a non-binding resolution that expresses sentiments and support but does not amend, repeal, or create any new laws, regulations, or enforceable requirements.

Potential Impacts

On Citizens and Education: Provides symbolic affirmation that may boost morale and visibility for Catholic schools, potentially encouraging enrollment or donations. It highlights their role in diverse, values-based education, which could indirectly support parental choices in schooling.
On Government Agencies: Minimal direct impact; the resolution was referred to the House Committee on Education and the Workforce for review but carries no funding or policy mandates.
On International Relations: Negligible, as it focuses solely on domestic U.S. Catholic education without referencing foreign entities.

Main Stakeholders Affected

Catholic Schools and Educators: Teachers, administrators, and schools (elementary and secondary) benefit from formal recognition of their academic and moral contributions.
Students and Families: Approximately 1.7 million students, including diverse and non-Catholic families, are highlighted for receiving strong educational foundations.
Religious Organizations: The NCEA and USCCB are directly applauded and positioned as key sponsors of the celebratory week.
Broader Community: Parents, local communities, and underserved urban areas gain visibility for affordable, service-oriented education options.

Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications

Legal/Constitutional: As a simple resolution, it has no legal force and avoids direct government endorsement of religion, aligning with the First Amendment's Establishment Clause (which prohibits government favoritism toward religion). It frames support in terms of educational excellence rather than religious promotion, reducing potential church-state separation concerns.
Political: Demonstrates bipartisan sponsorship (introduced by Rep. LaHood with co-sponsors from both parties), signaling congressional appreciation for private religious education. It may foster goodwill among Catholic voters and faith-based groups but could spark debate on equity between public and private schooling in a politically divided Congress. The milestone 52nd anniversary adds a celebratory, unifying tone without controversial elements.

This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.

Sponsor

Rep. LaHood, Darin [R-IL-16]

Cosponsors (16)

Rep. Neal, Richard E. [D-MA-1], Rep. Harris, Andy [R-MD-1], Rep. Smith, Christopher H. [R-NJ-4], Rep. Joyce, John [R-PA-13], Rep. Rutherford, John H. [R-FL-5], Rep. Moore, Riley M. [R-WV-2], Rep. Garbarino, Andrew R. [R-NY-2], Rep. Kelly, Mike [R-PA-16], Rep. Costa, Jim [D-CA-21], Rep. Fitzpatrick, Brian K. [R-PA-1], Rep. Hill, J. French [R-AR-2], Rep. Lawler, Michael [R-NY-17], Rep. Miller-Meeks, Mariannette [R-IA-1], Rep. Flood, Mike [R-NE-1], Rep. LaLota, Nick [R-NY-1], Rep. Diaz-Balart, Mario [R-FL-26]

Recent Actions

2026-01-27: Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
2026-01-27: Submitted in House
2026-01-27: Submitted in House

Bill Versions

Supporting the contributions of Catholic schools in the United States and celebrating the 52nd annual National Catholic Schools Week. — issued 2026-01-27 — PDF (4 pages)