[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 153 (Thursday, September 25, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1981]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO MR. PATRICK M. GRACZYK

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN P. MURTHA

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 24, 2008

  Mr. MURTHA.  Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend Mr. Patrick M. 
Graczyk, Principal of Grandview Elementary School in Tarentum, 
Pennsylvania. Mr. Graczyk was recently honored by the National 
Association of Elementary School Principals as one of the recipients of 
the 2008 National Distinguished Principals Award. The award recognizes 
principals who establish high standards for character, teaching, and 
student accomplishment.
  Mr. Graczyk was first nominated by his peers in Pennsylvania and then 
was chosen for the award by the NAESP Pennsylvania affiliate. In being 
chosen for the award, Mr. Graczyk has demonstrated his commitment to 
excellence, has implemented programs designed to meet the academic and 
social needs of all students, and has established firm ties with his 
community.
  Mr. Graczyk works hard on behalf of the students, teachers, and 
families in his school district. He became principal of Grandview 
Elementary in 2002 and had previously taught for 5 years. During his 
tenure, the school has seen a rise in scoring on Pennsylvania's 
academic tests, including among students from low-income families. In 
addition to directly serving the needs of his school, Mr. Graczyk also 
helps to train novice teachers in addressing the needs of students from 
low-income families. Madam Speaker, Mr. Patrick M. Graczyk is truly 
deserving of the National Distinguished Principals Award and 
Pennsylvania is fortunate to have him among its fine educators.

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