This year's theme focuses on three priorities that characterize Catholic schools and make them to stand out from other educational institutions. Students are taught faith—not just the basics of Christianity, but how to have a relationship with God. Academics, held to very high standards in Catholic Schools, help each child to reach his or her potential. Service, the giving of one's time and effort to help others, is taught both as an expression of faith and good citizenship. Catholic Schools Week is sponsored by the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).