Vets Encourage Public to Name New School
Eric Ortner
North Buffalo Rocket / West Side TimesThe Buffalo School District's latest jewel, an elementary school consisting of two separate houses each capable of holding approximately 500 students, is nearing completion in time for the 2000-2001 school year. The facility, located 155 Lawn Avenue in the city's Riverside/Black Rock neighborhood has been referred to only as the "Northwest Academy" during its construction. The time has come to officially name the school, and the Board is seeking public input.
A meeting to entertain and discuss ideas for naming the school has been scheduled for Tuesday, May 23, from 6:30-8 p.m. at West Hertel Academy, 489 Hertel Avenue at Military Road.
The American Legion has raised the issue of naming the school in honor of Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient PFC William J. Grabiarz. Members of American Legion Niagara Frontier Post 1041, Inc. have amassed more than 5,000 signatures on a petition requesting that the school board give the name serious consideration.
William J. Grabiarz gave up his life to save another. On February 23, 1945 in the Streets of Manila, he formed a human shield in order to protect troop commander Captain Gregory. It was then that William J. Grabiarz paid the supreme sacrifice. Prior to WWII William Grabiarz grew up in the area around the school and was an alumnus of school 79.
Veterans and the alumni of school 79 are encouraging members of the community to go to this important meeting. The Board of education also wishes to see a large show of support. West District Board Member Anthony Luppino, commented, "This is a great opportunity for us to come to a consensus on a name for our school that will clearly symbolize the pride and character of the neighborhood, its residents and the entire city."
