[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 19 (Wednesday, February 6, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E117-E118]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING DR. RICHARD WITKOWSKI, SUPERINTENDENT OF THE GARDEN CITY 
                             PUBLIC SCHOOLS

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 6, 2008

  Mr. McCOTTER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge 
Dr. Richard Witkowski, Superintendent of the Garden City Public 
Schools, upon his retirement from a distinguished 41-year career in 
education.
  For just over four decades, Superintendent Witkowski has served the 
citizens of Wayne County. Richard began his 39-year tenure with the 
Garden City Public Schools in 1969 after 2 years with the Gibraltar 
schools. Throughout his distinguished career with the Garden City 
Public Schools, Richard served as both an educator and administrator. 
Mr. Witkowski began as a mathematics and science teacher at Garden City 
East High School in 1969 before moving across town and becoming 
Assistant Principal at Garden City West High School in 1971. Mr. 
Witkowski discovered an innate talent for administration, being 
promoted to director in the central office in 1974, business manager 
for the district in 1985, associate superintendent, and superintendent 
in 2001.
  Superintendent Witkowski will be best remembered for his dedication, 
both to his job and community. Shortly after his promotion to

[[Page E118]]

superintendent, Richard was tested with several crises, including the 
September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and a bacterial meningitis 
outbreak at the high school, which resulted in a first-ever schoolwide 
inoculation of the students. He also oversaw the rebuilding of the 
district's five elementary schools, assisting school staff in directing 
students to buses, which would take students to their temporary 
classrooms. Witkowski remains active in the community as a member of 
the Garden City Rotary and the Garden City Chamber of Commerce. Richard 
has served as president of both organizations and currently serves as 
treasurer of the Rotary. Superintendent Witkowski will also continue 
his commitment to education and connection with students through the 
class he teaches at Madonna University in Livonia.
  Madam Speaker, for 41 years Superintendent Richard Witkowski has 
faithfully served Michigan citizens of all ages. As he enters the next 
phase of his life, he leaves behind a legacy of dedication, integrity, 
and excellence. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating 
Superintendent Richard Witkowski upon his retirement and recognizing 
his years of loyal service to our community's and country's future.

                          ____________________