[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 16] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 21967] [From the U.S. 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. ____________________