I am pleased that the Association of Catholic Teachers has accepted the contract proposal offered by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. I know that the negotiating process has been long and difficult and I am appreciative of the efforts of the Archdiocesan negotiating team, led by our Chief Negotiator, Tim Coyne, Esq., and the administration of the Office of Catholic Education. They worked tirelessly for months to achieve an equitable agreement for all parties.

I assure school parents and families that I am mindful of the sacrifices they make to send their children to Catholic school. The Archdiocese continues its efforts to keep tuition affordable for our families; these efforts are an important part of the negotiations with the Association.

As the 2006-2007 school year begins I welcome school administrators, teachers and students back to the classrooms of the Archdiocese. I express in a special way my appreciation for the daily efforts of our teachers. The Archdiocese is blessed to have so many professionals dedicated to providing a quality Catholic education to the young people in our care. I pray that the coming school year will be a productive one as we educate our young people and form them in our Catholic faith.

Contact
Donna M. Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747