A resolution supporting the contributions of Catholic schools in the United States and celebrating the 52nd annual National Catholic Schools Week.
- Bill Number
- S.Res. 594
- Origin Chamber
- Senate
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Education
- Status
- Passed Senate
- Latest Action
- 2026-01-29: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S397; text: CR S382)
- Last Updated
- 2026-02-04T13:51:32Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This Senate resolution (S. Res. 594) expresses 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. The theme is "Catholic Schools: United in Faith and Community," emphasizing the role of faith, family, and community in education.
Key Provisions
- Recognition of Catholic Schools' Excellence: Highlights that Catholic schools educate about 1,700,000 students with a focus on academic rigor, moral development, and values such as intellectual, physical, and social growth.
- Diversity and Accessibility: Notes that these schools serve a diverse population, including 34.9% from racial minority backgrounds, 15.4% of Hispanic heritage, and 21.8% from non-Catholic families; they are described as an affordable option, especially in underserved urban areas.
- Outcomes and Commitment: Points to a 10:1 student-teacher ratio, a 98.6% high school graduation rate, and 83.7% of graduates attending four-year colleges; emphasizes graduates' dedication to faith, family, community service, and helping others.
- Senate Actions: The resolution calls on the Senate to:
- Support the goals of National Catholic Schools Week, cosponsored by the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).
- Applaud the NCEA and USCCB for the event's theme.
- Recognize the dedication of Catholic schools, students, parents, and teachers to academic excellence and a stronger future for the U.S.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This is a non-binding resolution and introduces no changes to existing laws or statutes. It serves as a formal expression of congressional sentiment rather than enacting new policy or amendments.
Potential Impacts
- On Government Agencies: Minimal direct impact, as it does not allocate funds or mandate actions; it may encourage symbolic recognition by federal entities like the Senate.
- On Citizens: Raises public awareness of Catholic schools' role in education, potentially influencing parental choices and community support for faith-based schooling.
- On International Relations: None directly addressed; the resolution focuses on domestic education.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Catholic Schools and Educators: Teachers, administrators, and schools benefiting from formal recognition of their contributions.
- Students and Families: Approximately 1.7 million students, including diverse and non-Catholic families, who gain visibility for their educational environment.
- Religious Organizations: NCEA and USCCB, as cosponsors, receive applause for their efforts in promoting the event.
- Broader Community: Parents, urban underserved populations, and communities valuing moral and service-oriented education.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal/Constitutional: Aligns with First Amendment protections for religious freedom and education, without establishing religion or compelling participation; it is a permissive expression of support, avoiding any entanglement with government funding or mandates.
- Political: Demonstrates bipartisan sponsorship (by Senators Schmitt and Kaine), signaling cross-party appreciation for private, faith-based education; could foster goodwill toward religious institutions in policy discussions on school choice or urban education, though it carries no enforceable weight.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (1)
Recent Actions
- 2026-01-29: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S397; text: CR S382)
- 2026-01-29: Passed/agreed to in Senate: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S397; text: CR S382)
Bill Versions
- Supporting the contributions of Catholic schools in the United States and celebrating the 52nd annual National Catholic Schools Week. — issued 2026-01-29 — PDF (4 pages)