[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 177 (Thursday, November 20, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2332]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING DR. JOHN BARACY ON HIS RECENT RETIREMENT AS THE 
          SUPERINTENDENT OF SCOTTSDALE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. HARRY E. MITCHELL

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 20, 2008

  Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. John 
Baracy, an exemplary public servant and recently retired Superintendent 
of Scottsdale Unified School District.
  After working in education for 38 years, Dr. Baracy is retiring from 
a post where he brought leadership, vision and stability. Dr. Baracy 
thrived and excelled even though he was diagnosed with cancer within 
three weeks of accepting the Superintendent position.
  In his four years, Dr. Baracy helped to stabilize the finances of the 
district. Under his leadership, 22 of 32 schools now bear the label 
``excelling,'' Arizona's top academic ranking. In addition to this, all 
five of the high schools in the district were renovated under budget 
and on time.
  Throughout this, Dr. Baracy worked on forming a model of partnership 
for others to follow. Responding to calls to improve communication with 
parents and community members, Dr. Baracy moved towards more parent and 
community input into shaping the schools. By drawing upon his business 
background, Dr. Baracy shared his vision of finding common ground with 
parents and the community. The effects of his dedication will continue 
to shape Scottsdale schools for years to come.
  Therefore, I urge you Madam Speaker, in rising to congratulate Dr. 
Baracy on his accomplishments and recent retirement.

                          ____________________