CATHOLIC SCHOOLS ARE A+ FOR AMERICA

Jan. 30 through Feb. 5, 2011

The theme for Catholic Schools Week 2011 celebrates the fact that Catholic schools are an added value (“a plus”) for the nation. Because of their traditionally high academic standards and high graduation rates, all supported by strong moral values, Catholic schools and their graduates make a definite contribution to American society.

The logo designed for the week displays the words “A+ For America, Catholic Schools” beneath a stylized banner of stars and stripes in red and light blue.

The 7,094 Catholic elementary and secondary schools make up 44.4 percent of all private schools in the United States.

A Catholic-school education is available in all regions of the nation. Urban schools represent 30.7 percent of the total, suburban 36.5 percent, rural 20.5 percent and inner- city schools 12.3 percent. The five states with the highest student enrollment are California, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois and Ohio.

Catholic Schools Week is a joint project of NCEA and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.