Its unique purpose and character must never be compromised. In saying this, however, we do not believe and do not intend to convey the impression that teachers who seek to organize are less committed to that ideal and standard of Catholic education than other members of the Catholic school community. In both pastoral documents, the bishops were speaking not only for themselves but for all the men and women who staff Catholic schools. A faculty, with parents, administrators and others, has a strategic share in the educational ministry. It is critically important that the special character of Catholic educational institutions be maintained.
Catholic schools are particularly committed to instruction of religious and moral values.
Supervisory agencies have the duty to give just recognition to these essential objectives of Catholic schools and to understand the responsibility of Church leadership to protect these functions. It is imperative to understand that Catholic schools differ considerably from their counterparts in the tax-supported school system. This is particularly true in terms of their capabilities, their organization and most importantly, in their objectives. Catholic schools are, for example, supported by the free-will offerings of the families which they serve. These schools exist only because of the generosity, dedication and sacrifice of all the Catholic people and in particular the teachers and parents.