January 31, 2013

Rep Case: ‘A great day for Catholic schools’

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WINSTED – Music pierced the chilly January air while the Star-Spangled Banner was raised high above St. Anthony’s School on Wednesday in a celebration of academic achievement and the institution’s commitment to excellence.

It’s National Catholic Schools Week, and the theme of “Raise the Standards” gained support from local delegation. State Rep. Jay Case (R-63) presented St. Anthony’s Principal Mrs. Patricia Devanney, the staff and students with a proclamation from the General Assembly and an American flag which was previously flown over the State Capitol.

National Catholic Schools Week, which runs from Jan. 27 to Feb. 2 this year, allows schools like St. Anthony’s to be recognized for their continued success. As a Winsted mainstay since 1865, St. Anthony’s has served the northwest Connecticut community for generations, educating the regional community since Abraham Lincoln was President.

“Catholic schools are a cornerstone to society because they continue to educate young minds and influence future generations,” said Rep. Case, a member of the General Assembly’s Appropriations, Energy, Environment and Human Services committees. “Today’s celebration recognizes the hard work St. Anthony’s administration and staff pours into the intelligent young students. I’m thankful St. Anthony’s allowed me to be a part of this celebration, and I wish them the best for the future.”

“It was an honor to have Representative Jay Case visit St. Anthony School this morning during Catholic Schools Week,” Principal Devanney said. “Jay presented an American flag that had flown over the state capitol to our students. Students at our school will salute this flag each morning as they share in the Pledge of Allegiance. It was wonderful to have our representative take the time to educate our students who will be future voters. It was a great way for all of our school family to begin their day.”

Schools typically celebrate Catholic Schools Week with Masses, open houses, and other activities for students, families, parishioners, and the community at large.

The 2013 theme supports the recent launch of the National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools that ensure the effective operation and responsible governance Catholic schools across the country, according to the National Catholic Education Association.