[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 25 (Thursday, February 14, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E196]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING THE DEDICATION OF THE MARY E. SMITHEY PACE LEARNING CENTER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. KENNY MARCHANT

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 14, 2008

  Mr. MARCHANT. Madam Speaker, I wish to honor the dedication and 
renaming of the PACE School to the Mary E. Smithey PACE Learning Center 
in Duncanville, Texas.
  On Sunday, February 17, 2008, a ceremony will be held honoring Mary 
E. Smithey for her many years as a teacher in the Duncanville school 
system. When Mrs. Smithey began teaching in Duncanville in 1946, she 
was one of eight teachers who served 287 students in grades one through 
twelve in one school building, now known as Central Elementary. Mrs. 
Smithey was the first retiree of the Duncanville Teachers Association 
and spoke highly of her career, particularly of her students.
  Mary E. Smithey was an exemplary teacher who was loved and respected 
by her students, their families and her peers. Mrs. Smithey, along with 
her husband, Grady Sr., have held long careers in public service in 
their community and the tradition continues as three of their 
grandchildren are teachers. The Smithey's two sons, Grady Jr. and Gary 
Ervin, are Duncanville school graduates.
  The Mary E. Smithey PACE Learning Center is an alternative school for 
students, grades 9 to 12, who need additional assistance in their 
education. The smaller class sizes and individual learning available at 
this campus help young people gain confidence and success. Students 
study a core curriculum, along with electives, on a flexible schedule 
allowing them the opportunity to achieve a high school diploma.
  I am honored to pay tribute to Mary E. Smithey and the Duncanville 
Independent School District in the dedication and renaming of the PACE 
School in her memory. The objectives of the PACE Learning Center will 
perpetuate Mrs. Smithey's legacy in education for many years to come. I 
am privileged to represent the Duncanville ISD in the 24th District of 
Texas.

                          ____________________