I am extremely pleased that the Association of Catholic Teachers has accepted the contract proposal offered by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. I thank the members of the Archdiocesan negotiating team and all who worked tirelessly at the bargaining table to reach this settlement.

Quality teachers are our most valuable resource. We are blessed to have hundreds of dedicated teachers in the Archdiocese. I want our teachers to know how much I appreciate their commitment to our students and to our schools.

I am also mindful of the financial burdens of the parents of our students who make many sacrifices to send their children to Catholic schools. We will always work to keep tuition affordable.

The timely acceptance of this new contract allows the new school year to begin in a positive spirit of mutual cooperation and good will.