Bishop Henning on Catholic Schools and Education

"In November, I had the opportunity to attend a meeting with Governor Daniel McKee and his staff concerning his Learn365RI initiative. The Governor explained his deep concern for the young people of our state and outlined the post-covid challenges for education. While I was aware of these challenges in general, I was still shocked by the data the Governor presented. Far too many of the young people in our state have not fully returned to school following the pandemic. The rates of chronic absenteeism are much too high in many districts, particularly in urban and poor neighborhoods. The Governor explained his efforts to reduce absenteeism and the significant progress to date. He also explained his Learn365RI initiative to involve the wider community and provide young people with broader opportunities for learning year-round. . . .

"One lesson emerges from the experience of Catholic schools across the United States and here in Rhode Island. In many places, Catholic schools adapted to the lockdown more rapidly than other schools. They also reopened sooner than most, unless impeded by local strictures. The dedicated teachers and engaged parents helped to make the best of extremely difficult circumstances. As a result, Catholic schools across the U.S. maintained their learning and testing standards and even saw modest improvements even as the overall educational endeavor lost ground on an epic scale. . . ."

In a recent commentary, Bishop Richard G. Henning, the bishop of the Diocese of Providence (RI), reflected on the blessing of Catholic schools and their mission..

To access Bishop Henning's complete essay, please visit: 

The State of Hope: Catholic schools educate and form the whole person (25 JAN 24)