Masonic Lodge Awards Three Scholarships to Grand Prairie High Students
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| (Front row L-R) Lacey Chessmore (2nd from left), Micaela Johnson (Center), and Daniel Vasquez (2nd from right) were awarded scholarships from the Sam R. Hamilton Masonic Lodge of Grand Prairie. Submitted photo |
The Sam R. Hamilton Masonic Lodge in downtown Grand Prairie awarded three $1,000 scholarships to students from Grand Prairie High School on May 22. Receiving scholarships were:
Lacey Chessmore
Micaela Johnson
Daniel Vasquez
The Masons of Texas have supported public education since before the public school systemas we know today existed. As long as 150 years ago, many lodges started local schools in their community and some even paid the teachers' salaries.
Four Grand Prairie Residents Recent College Graduates
Amber Raindl, BS Nursing – Washburn University, Topeka, KS
Bridget Doyle, BS, Open Studies – Minnesota State University, Mankato, MN
Alison Stelter, MS, Spec Ed: Learning Disabilities - Minnesota State University, Mankato, MN
Chase D. Sprinkle BS Nursing - Oklahoma Baptist University, Shawnee, OK
May 24, 2012
Dedication of Advantage Academy's New Grand Prairie Campus
In a ceremony Thursday that featured David Barton, WallBuilders, as the keynote speaker, Advantage Academy dedicated its new 70,000 square foot, 850 student capacity, $14.2 million Grand Prairie Campus. The 8.94 acre campus is located at 959 Freetown Road.
Sherri Busalacchi, Director of Marketing said, “The students, staff and parents have been so grateful for this beautiful new campus. The pride for their classrooms and campus has only increased the determination of all our wonderful teachers and students to dream big, work hard and to love learning. The close-knit community atmosphere of this new school is infectious.”
Continue reading " Dedication of Advantage Academy's New Grand Prairie Campus" »
May 23, 2012
Police Carry Torch for Special Olympics
Grand Prairie Police Chief Steve Dye along with 20 Grand Prairie Police Officers ran 4.8 miles Wednesday morning, stopping at Grand Prairie ISD schools to meet with cheering students.
The 2012 Law Enforcement Torch Run is a nationwide law enforcement effort to show its support to Special Olympic athletes.
The run stopped at:
Continue reading "Police Carry Torch for Special Olympics" »
May 22, 2012
Grand Prairie Resident’s Art Work Featured on Debit Card
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| Submitted Photo - Rachel Olgin of Grand Prairie, a senior at Mansfield Frontier High School, stands in front of her winning design in the Texas Trust Credit Union’s Mansfield ISD’s Spirit Debit Reward design contest. |
Grand Prairie resident Rachel Olgin, a Senior at Mansfield’s Frontier High School, was one of seven winners of the Texas Trust Credit Union’s Mansfield ISD’s Spirit Debit Reward design contest announced Monday at the Mansfield Spirit event. Superintendent Dr. Bob Morrison publicly recognized the students at the unveiling ceremony.
Of the seven winners, five are seniors, one is a junior, and one is a sophomore. Each winner received $250 and a seat on the Texas Trust Youth Advisory Council. They also get to spend a day with the Texas Trust professional graphic designer and marketing team to learn more about the design profession.
Continue reading "Grand Prairie Resident’s Art Work Featured on Debit Card" »
May 21, 2012
Shattered Dreams Mock Accident at Dubiski Career High School
The Shattered Dreams mock accident was held Monday at Dubiski Career High School. Shattered Dreams is a program that shows students the tragic results of drinking and driving.
May 20, 2012
Dubiski Career High School 10th Grader Wins Car in School Attendance Program
On Friday, Emanuel Barrios, a tenth grader at Dubiski Career High School, was one of three Grand Prairie ISD high school students to win a car in this year’s Every Child, Every Seat, Every Day attendance incentive program.
High School students (grades 10-12) who met attendance criteria qualified to win one of three cars from Graff Chevrolet (one for each high school) with tax, title and license on the vehicle paid by Texas Trust Credit Union and one year of Chik fil A meals per week.
Continue reading "Dubiski Career High School 10th Grader Wins Car in School Attendance Program" »
Grand Prairie Hosts Stop for “Run for the Wall” Cross-country Motorcycle Ride
Five-hundred motorcycle riders on a cross-country motorcycle journey that began on May 15 in Rancho Cucamonga, CA and will arrive in Washington, DC on May 25 in time to celebrate Memorial weekend activities, stopped in Grand Prairie for the night on Saturday.
Hosted by the Grand Prairie ISD, City of Grand Prairie and various businesses and veteran’s organizations, the riders stopped at Dubiski Career High School for dinner and a short program before retiring for the evening.
Continue reading "Grand Prairie Hosts Stop for “Run for the Wall” Cross-country Motorcycle Ride" »
May 16, 2012
South Grand Prairie’s Video Club Wins Top Prize in Contest
For the first time ever, the $10,000 grand prize goes to a team of public high school students who, for months, persistently championed their school, South Grand Prairie High, to establish a video club. The result: A thoughtful video, entitled "Choices," that chronicles the decisions made by one young man while using his cell phone.
"When we decided to enter this contest, we thought about what it means to be safe and responsible online. We realized it all comes down to the decisions we make. We hope people will think about all the decisions they face when they use a cell phone. Sometimes a small decision can have a big impact. If you make good choices, you'll be ok," said Trung Hyunh, student filmmaker and member of the SGP Video Club, South Grand Prairie High School, Grand Prairie, TX.
Continue reading "South Grand Prairie’s Video Club Wins Top Prize in Contest" »
May 10, 2012
School Board Adds Additional Open Forum to Monthly Meeting
The first Open Forum is only for topics that appear on the meeting's agenda. The second Open Forum, which will be held later in the meeting, is for items not on the agenda.
Anyone who wants to address the Board during Open Forum should complete a speaker's form which can be found at the back of the board room at each meeting. The Board President will then recognize each speaker at the appropriate time.
May 08, 2012
Dubiski Career High School Holds “Safest Summer Ever" Rally
Approximately 1,100 students (mostly juniors and seniors) attended the “Safest Summer Ever" Rally held Tuesday at Grand Prairie's Dubiski Career High School. Activities include various “experience areas” including Driving Under the Influence (riding tricycles with impairment goggles on), Texting and Driving and Click it or Ticket seat belt events. Student signed pledges to have the safest summer ever supporting.
May 02, 2012
School District Names Teachers of the Year
The Grand Prairie Independent School District held its annual award ceremony Tuesday night at the Ruthe Jackson Center to recognize its 2012 Teachers of the Year, retirees and give service awards.
Erin (Betsy) Berkebile of Hector P. Garcia Elementary was named Elementary Teacher of the Year. Ashley Logan of James Fannin Middle School was named Secondary Teacher of the Year.
GPISD 2011-2012 Teachers of the Year
Continue reading "School District Names Teachers of the Year" »
April 27, 2012
Arbor Day Celebration at Kirby Creek Nature Center
More than 700 fifth grade students from the Grand Prairie Independent School District took part in Grand Prairie’s 28th annual Arbor Day celebration Friday at Kirby Creek Nature Center. The city’s Arbor Day celebration is the 2nd oldest in Texas.
The Dolphin Choir from Barbara Bush Elementary school provided entertainment with a song and a unique rhythm performance.
Greg Cashman with the Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce presented winners of the Arbor Day Poster Contest:
Continue reading "Arbor Day Celebration at Kirby Creek Nature Center" »
Students to Raise Money for Child Stricken with Cancer
Kelsey Bond, Student Council Vice-President, said the entire school will take part in “Walk for Diego”, a 1K fun walk/run on May 18 during the school’s field day. After the walk, Bond said, the class will be selling hamburger and hot dog lunches.
“Diego’s illness and his medical treatment has been both an emotional and financial drain on the family,” Bond said. “One hundred percent of all monies collected will go toward their financial needs.”
Continue reading "Students to Raise Money for Child Stricken with Cancer" »
April 25, 2012
Advantage Academy Student to Get Unique Look at U.S. Naval Academy
Submitted Photo
Summer Seminar is a fast-paced leadership experience for rising seniors in high school. This program helps educate, motivate and prepare selected students who are considering applying for admission to USNA.
Joshua DeBurr, a student at Advantage Academy in Grand Prairie, will participate in the 2012 U.S. Naval Academy Summer Seminar program.
Continue reading "Advantage Academy Student to Get Unique Look at U.S. Naval Academy" »
School District Earns Over $22 Thousand with Texas Trust Spirit Debit Reward Program
The Spirit Debit Reward program was launched last year as a way to help area schools that are facing tight budgets. Participating schools receive a check at the end of each month, based on the number of transactions swiped from their school-specific Debit Reward Card. Schools get to choose how to use the money they earn.
Within the four school districts that have a Texas Trust Spirit Debit Reward card, there are 11 high schools and two administrations participating. Grand Prairie ISD has earned $22,866 to date, Mansfield ISD $16,675, Cedar Hill ISD $15,643 and Athens ISD $5,855.
The Spirit Debit Reward Card is part of Texas Trust's Spirit in Action campaign, which supports schools in several ways: a financial education curriculum for high school students: financial literacy workshops for students, teachers, administrators and the community; volunteers for school-related activities; financial donations; and student scholarships. Credit union members can earn rewards for designated schools when opening a checking account or taking out an auto loan, personal loan, or mortgage. In 2011, Texas Trust donated a total of more than $150,000 to participating schools, including $20,000 in student scholarships.
Cardholders and schools can track how much money is being raised from the Spirit Debit Reward Card for their designated school on the Spirit Rewards Meter at www.ourspiritinaction.com.
Source: Texas Trust Credit Union
April 24, 2012
Adams Middle School Teacher Re-elected to Texas Classroom Teachers Association Council
Read was re-elected by convention delegates from district 10, the North Texas area she represents on the TCTA Directors’ Council. As a Council member, Read helps set policy for the statewide association and assists leaders of TCTA local affiliates in her eight-county area.
April 19, 2012
Milam 5th Graders Hold Egg Drop Project
On Wednesday, Milam Elementary School 5th Graders participated in an Egg Drop Project.
The project featured twelve 5th grade teams that competed to develop an egg drop system that would allow eggs to survive multiple drops from various heights.
Continue reading "Milam 5th Graders Hold Egg Drop Project" »
April 05, 2012
South Grand Prairie Senior Wins National Achievement Scholarship
More than 160,000 students entered the 2012 National Achievement Scholarship Program as high school juniors in 2011, 1,600 of the highest scorers were named semifinalists on a regional representation basis.
To continue in the competition, semifinalists had to fulfill requirements for finalist standing that included:
- A record of consistently high academic performance
- Endorsed and recommended by an official from their high school
- Earning SAT scores that confirmed their PSAT/NMSQT performance
- Writing an essay
The National Achievement Scholarship Program is a privately financed academic
competition established in 1964. The program is conducted by National Merit Scholarship
Corporation, a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance.
March 29, 2012
Congressman Marchant Announces North Texas U.S. Service Academies Forum
The North Texas U.S. Service Academies Forum will be held from 8am to 12pm on April 21 at First Baptist Church of Carrollton. This event is free and open to the public.
The event will provide information on the nomination process, evaluation requirements, and the nation’s five service academies which includes the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.
Continue reading "Congressman Marchant Announces North Texas U.S. Service Academies Forum" »
March 25, 2012
Grand Prairie ISD Holds Community Muticultural Fair
Video by Bob Fitch/Grand Prairie Reporter - © 2012
To recognize the diversity in the community, the Grand Prairie ISD held its Multicultural Fair Saturday at the Grand Prairie High School Ninth Grade Center.
The fair featured free food, cultural exhibits, informative sessions and door prizes.
March 21, 2012
Mason Recognition Day at Sallye Moore Elementary
Students at Sallye Moore Elementary School Thursday recognized the Masonic Lodge of Texas for its contribution to public education in Texas as part of Grand Prairie ISD's Public School Week celebration.
March 05, 2012
Soroptimist - February Girl of the Month
Each month the Soroptimist Club honors the winners with a certificate and at the end of the year one girl from each high school is chosen Girl of the Year and awarded a $1,000 scholarship.
February winners:
Continue reading "Soroptimist - February Girl of the Month" »
March 04, 2012
Best of Southwest Drill Meet at Grand Prairie HS
More than 250 JROTC students from 20 high schools across Texas and Oklahoma took part in the 13th annual Best of Southwest Drill Meet Saturday at Grand Prairie High School.
February 27, 2012
Texas Prepaid Tuition Program Enrollment Deadline Approaches
The Texas Tuition Promise Fund allows participants to lock in the cost of undergraduate tuition and required fees at Texas public colleges and universities based on current prices.
“Families can invest in the Promise Fund and ease their concern about rising college costs,” Combs said. “The program also gives parents the flexibility of choosing how much prepaid tuition they want to buy and different payment options as they plan ahead for their children’s education.”
Under the plan, families can prepay tuition and required fees for a four-year degree, two years of community college or just a few semesters at Texas public colleges and universities by purchasing tuition units.
Continue reading "Texas Prepaid Tuition Program Enrollment Deadline Approaches" »
February 25, 2012
Dubiski Students Selected as Finalists in Teen Safe Driving T-shirt Contest
Act Out Loud, sponsored by The Allstate Foundation and National Organizations for Youth Safety (NOYS) is a school-based, teen-led competition to raise awareness about youth traffic safety and empower teens to take on the issue locally.
The top 25 T-shirt designs were selected by a panel of judges, including The Allstate Foundation, NOYS and Threadless. The winners of the Safe-Tee Shirt Design Contest will receive up to 500 T-shirts with their winning design, and earn points toward a $10,000 grand prize.
Continue reading "Dubiski Students Selected as Finalists in Teen Safe Driving T-shirt Contest" »
February 10, 2012
Annual "Soup’s on for Love" Benefits LifeLine Shelter
Soup’s on for Love, the annual fund raiser benefiting LifeLine Shelter, brought in more than $2 thousand to help LifeLine Shelter reduce homelessness among families of Grand Prairie ISD students.
A record number attended the annual event held at the Grand Prairie ISD administration building on Friday to taste the wide variety of soups from various businesses and organizations.
Texas Trust Credit Union’s Taco Soup was voted this year’s best soup.
Moseley Elementary Students Raise $3 Thousand for Leukemia & Lymphoma
Students at Moseley Elementary school got a special treat Friday when teachers made good on their promise to dance in tutus if the school raised more than $3 thousand for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
The school-wide donation drive, named Pasta for Pennies because the class that raised the most money gets a pasta party courtesy Olive Garden, began on January 13. Ms. Wood’s kindergarten class took the top prize this year, raising more than $419.
Rheatore Terry, Counselor, said the school began raising money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in 2008 when a former teacher at the school was diagnosed with lymphoma. She said each year a different incentive is used to reward the students for their generosity.
Terry said this year the school set a record, raising $3,725.20.
Grand Prairie ISD Completes its Seventeenth Outdoor Learning Center
The Grand Prairie ISD in partnership with Triumph Group, Real School Gardens, UAW 828, Chesapeake Energy and the City of Grand Prairie completed its 17th Outdoor Learning Center on Thursday at Travis Elementary School, 525 NE 15th.
February 06, 2012
Soroptimist Girl of the Month for January Ceremony
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| Soroptimist Girl of the Month for January ceremony held Saturday. (L-R)Terri Dirba, Chabryan Brown, Sierra Prempey, Jacqueline Sanchez, Adenike Olabode, Alyssa Hutchinson, Dinorah Navarro, and Debbie Bailey. |
On Saturday, the Soroptimist International of Grand Prairie recognized 10 high school and middle school girls in the Grand Prairie ISD for their outstanding character, community service and leadership.
Each month the Soroptimist Club honors the winners with a certificate and at the end of the year one girl from each high school is chosen Girl of the Year and awarded a $1,000 scholarship.
January 22, 2012
More than Two Thousand Attend GPISD Experience
On Saturday, more than two thousand parents and students came to the GPISD Experience held at South Grand Prairie High School to get an overview of the district’s Schools of Choice, Programs of Choice and Preferred Programs of Choice, and to learn about the district's new era of educational opportunities for students and parents.
January 19, 2012
High Schools Present Musicals
Both Grand Prairie High School and South Grand Prairie High School will present musicals this week.
Grand Prairie High School actors will put on the musical "Godspell" in the Ninth Grand Center Black Box, 102 High School Dr:
January 19 at 7:00 p.m.
January 20 at 7:00 p.m.
January 21 at 2:00 and 7:00 p.m.
Seating is limited
For reservations call 972-343-6345
South Grand Prairie High School Theater Department's production of "Hairspray" will be in the school's new theater at 301 W. Warriror Trail:
January 20 at 7:00 p.m.
January 21 at 2:00 and 7:00 p.m.
For reservations call 972-343-1578
January 17, 2012
District Invites Community to Experience GPISD
On Saturday, January 21, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at South Grand Prairie High School, 301 W. Warrior Trail, parents and students can get a glimpse of the GPISD Experience – an overview of the District’s Schools of Choice, Programs of Choice and Preferred Programs of Choice.
Schools of Choice include Dubiski Career High School, Garner Fine Arts Academy, Bonham Early Education Center, Crockett 5th Grade Center, and Crosswinds High School.
Continue reading "District Invites Community to Experience GPISD" »
January 10, 2012
Kennedy Middle School Begins Computer Classes to Help Parents
Cathy Junker, a teacher at Kennedy Middle School, began a series of four computer classes Monday night to teach parents some basic computer skills and how to use Skyward, Grand Prairie ISD's online system for parents to stay informed about their student’s attendance, grades, report cards and schedules. Also, with Skyward teachers and parents can communicate directly.
Monday night was the basic computer usage class. This is to be followed by:
Continue reading "Kennedy Middle School Begins Computer Classes to Help Parents" »
December 29, 2011
Six Selected to All-District Football Team, Gopher Devante Lacy Named Offensive Player of the Year
Gopher wide receiver Devante Lacy was named District 5-5A Offensive Player of the Year as six Grand Prairie ISD football players, four from Grand Prairie High and two from South Grand Prairie High, were selected to the 2011 All-District team.
Grand Prairie High School players:
Devante Lacy – Wide ReceiverSouth Grand Prairie High School players:
Ardarius Singleton – Wide Receiver
Jaylen Fails – Wide Receiver/Quarterback
Alex Rostro – Punter
Louis Dailey – Wide Receiver
McQuintin Grant – Cornerback
December 21, 2011
Dubiski Career High School Receives Grant to Support Family Engagement
"Take Your Family to School Week embodies PTA's legacy of building family-school partnerships. We're proud to provide these grants to PTAs at the grassroots level to ensure that our legacy lives, families are involved and students succeed," said Betsy Landers, National PTA President. "This special week also reminds us that now more than ever all families, schools and communities need to work together to increase student achievement as U.S. children are behind their counterparts around the world in English and math."
Continue reading "Dubiski Career High School Receives Grant to Support Family Engagement" »
December 04, 2011
"Empty Bowls Project" Raises Money for Food Co-op
Students from Grand Prairie, South Grand Prairie and Dubiski Career High Schools partnered to sell ceramic bowls along with hot soup and chili on Saturday at Market Square to raise money for the Grand Prairie Food and Clothing Assistance Co-op.
December 03, 2011
Soroptimist Girl of the Month for November Ceremony
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| Soroptimist Girl of the Month for November ceremony held Saturday. (L-R) Debbie Baily, Shea Smith, Karina Velazquez, Vivian Bui, Kelly Moses, Mickey Adams,Ruby Tristan, Madison Mangum, Gabriella Cooksie, and Angela Giessner. |
Saturday, the Soroptimist International of Grand Prairie recognized 10 high school and middle school girls in the Grand Prairie ISD for their outstanding character, community service and leadership.
Each month the Soroptimist Club honors the winners with a certificate and at the end of the year one girl from each high school is chosen Girl of the Year and awarded a $1,000 scholarship.
The November selections:
Continue reading "Soroptimist Girl of the Month for November Ceremony" »
December 02, 2011
Grand Prairie Lights up Christmas Tree and Market Square
Grand Prairie held its Christmas tree lighting at City Hall Plaza Thursday night and added some new features, a candlelight procession to Market Square led by middle school carolers and the lighting of Main Street.
Choral groups from the Grand Prairie ISD kept the large crowd entertained with holiday music
Continue reading "Grand Prairie Lights up Christmas Tree and Market Square" »
November 29, 2011
School District to Conduct Public Hearing on AEIS Report
The AEIS report is published annually by the Texas Education Agency. The report includes student performance and profile information concerning students, finances, and staffing.
The hearing will be held in the Board Room at the GPISD Education Center located at 2602 S. Belt Line Road in Grand Prairie.
Continue reading "School District to Conduct Public Hearing on AEIS Report" »
November 17, 2011
Police Talk Suicidal Man Down from Gopher-Warrior Bowl Light Pole
Grand Prairie police this morning talked a distraught man threatening suicide down from a light pole at the Gopher-Warrior Bowl.
The incident began around 5:20 a.m. when the man, upset over a personal relationship, called police threatening to jump off the bridge at State Highway 161 and Interstate 20. When officers arrived there, the man could not be located.
Continue reading "Police Talk Suicidal Man Down from Gopher-Warrior Bowl Light Pole" »
November 12, 2011
Joint Project Gives Students Outdoor Learning Environment
Earlier in the school year, Triumph, seeking meaningful community service in the Grand Prairie community, was paired with Garner Fine Arts Academy, which was in need of an outdoor learning environment.
For the 2011-12 school year, Triumph has committed 200 volunteer hours and $10,000 to complete a two-phase project that will provide the school with two outdoor learning areas.
Continue reading "Joint Project Gives Students Outdoor Learning Environment" »
November 05, 2011
Warriors Beat Gophers in Season’s Finale
The South Grand Prairie Warriors beat the Grand Prairie Gophers 43 – 25 in the football season finale Friday night at the Gopher Warrior Bowl.
For the season, the Gophers had a 0-10 record while the Warriors posted a 4-6 season.
Scoring in Friday night’s game:
Continue reading "Warriors Beat Gophers in Season’s Finale" »
November 02, 2011
Art Students at Work on Empty Bowls Project to Help Feed the Hungry
With help of a grant from the GPISD Education Foundation, art students at both South Grand Prairie High School and Grand Prairie High School along with teachers and school administrators have joined to make ceramic bowls for the Empty Bowls Project.
On December 3, the students will be at the Grand Prairie Farmers Market to sell all the bowls made. The bowls will be filled with soup made by culinary students from Dubiski Career High School.
Continue reading "Art Students at Work on Empty Bowls Project to Help Feed the Hungry" »
October 30, 2011
School Student Center Named Col. James R. Almand, MD Student Activity Center
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| Dr. James Almand speaks to a standing room only crowd at the dedication ceremony on Friday for Grand Prairie High School's Col. James Almand, MD Student Activity Center. |
The Grand Prairie ISD held a dedication ceremony Friday to name Grand Prairie High School’s Student Activity Building as the Col. James R. Almand MD Student Activity Center after prominent local physician and retired Air Force Colonel, Dr. James Almand, MD.
Dr. Almand, who setup his medical practice in Grand Prairie in 1956, has served the school district for more than thirty years. He provided low cost physicals to students who participated in athletics and other school activities. The money raised from these physicals was used to fund the Dr. James Almand Scholarship that has provided more $50,000 in scholarship to deserving graduating seniors.
Continue reading "School Student Center Named Col. James R. Almand, MD Student Activity Center" »
October 29, 2011
Gophers Lose 45-2 to Mansfield
The Grand Prairie Gophers scored only once Friday night when Jaylen Fail returned a blocked extra point to the end zone for two points in the Gophers 45-2 loss to the Mansfield Tigers at the Gopher-Warrior Bowl.
The Warrior also lost Friday night, getting beat 45-16 in Cedar Hill.
October 22, 2011
Warriors Score 42 Points in Win Over Mansfield Legacy
The South Grand Prairie Warriors beat Mansfield Legacy 42-25 Friday night at the Gopher-Warrior Bowl.
Scoring for the Warriors:
Leonard Aikens 11-yard run (Johnny Armijo kick)
Tomorris Hamilton 45-yard punt return (Johnny Armijo kick)
Jared Johnson 2-yard run (Johnny Armijo kick)
Louis Dailey 39-yard pass from Jared Johnson (Johnny Armijo kick)
Bryan Ajumobi 3-yard pass from Jared Johnson (Johnny Armijo kick)
Leonard Aikens 15-yard run (Johnny Armijo kick)
Continue reading "Warriors Score 42 Points in Win Over Mansfield Legacy" »
October 21, 2011
Dubiski Students to Work with Race Crews
Rick Elmore, Automotive Program Facilitator/Instructor at The School of Transportation & Logistics at Dubiski Career High School announced Thursday a partnership with the school and professional motorsports companies to give students a chance to explore career opportunities.
This weekend, a select group of students will work with race crews at the American Drag Racing League event at the Texas Mortorplex in Ennis to get an inside look at a career in professional motorsport.
Continue reading "Dubiski Students to Work with Race Crews" »
October 18, 2011
Earth Force and General Motors Recognize Former GPISD Teacher for Environmental Education
The GREEN award recognizes educators who integrate environmental education into their school or community curriculums.
“These teachers represent the best of our education system, extending their environmental knowledge to tomorrow’s leaders and problem solvers," said Vivian Pickard, president of the GM Foundation.
October 04, 2011
Texas A&M Student from Grand Prairie Receives Texas Armed Service Scholarship
To be considered for the award, Antonio had to be nominated by an elected state official. Each elected official can nominate only one student each year for the scholarship, making the bid for a nomination very competitive. In order to qualify to be nominated, however, Antonio first had to show that he met certain criteria, such as maintaining a 3.0 grade point average, achieving a class ranking falling within the top one-third of his senior class, and scoring either a combined 1590 on the SAT or a 23 on the ACT.
Continue reading "Texas A&M Student from Grand Prairie Receives Texas Armed Service Scholarship" »
September 14, 2011
Soldier Parents Surprise Daughter at School
Army MSgt. Tom Hawarden and SSgt. Diana Hawarden, parents of nine-year-old Anna Hawarden, paid the Florence Hill Elementary School student a surprise visit in her classroom Wednesday morning.
The Hawardens, who just returned from a year of duty in Iraq, said Anna was the first of their five children to visit.
Continue reading "Soldier Parents Surprise Daughter at School" »
South Grand Prairie Senior Semifinalist in the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program
Swanson now has an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 8,300 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $34 million that will be offered next spring.
To be considered for a Merit Scholarship® award, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the competition. About 90 percent of the Semifinalists are expected to attain Finalist standing, and more than half of the Finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar® title.
Texas Trust Credit Union’s Spirit Debit Card Rewards Local High Schools with Cash
Participating schools will receive 15 cents every time an active Spirit Debit card is used to make a purchase. With more than 1,100 active card-carrying Spirit Debit cardholders, Texas Trust Credit Union anticipates giving away $75,000 this school year to the schools enrolled in the program. Schools will receive a check each month for cardholders' previous months purchases.
September 10, 2011
Warriors Lose Homecoming 29-9 to North Mesquite
North Mesquite proved to be too much for South Grand Prairie Friday night at the Gopher-Warrior Bowl ruining the Warriors Homecoming.
The Warriors managed to score only twice, a 41-yard Johnny Armijo field goal in the first quarter and a 2-yard Jared Jackson touchdown pass to Kelvin Brigham in the second quarter.
The North Mesquite offense was too potent for the Warriors’ defense, scoring 29 points in the game.
Continue reading "Warriors Lose Homecoming 29-9 to North Mesquite" »
September 09, 2011
Dubiski Career High School Announces Business Partnership Programs
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| Winston Minix speaks to a group of representative from various local businesses about Dubiski Career High School's innovative business-school partnership programs. Photo by Steve Adams/GPISD |
On Thursday, representatives from many local businesses got the opportunity to learn about Dubiski Career High School’s innovative programs that partners the school, its students with local businesses.
Winston Minix, Internship Coordinator, laid out the plan that includes businesses as an important part of student’s education.
The programs, setup to give students “real world” experiences, allows seniors to work at local businesses as an unpaid intern for five weeks, Minix said.
Continue reading "Dubiski Career High School Announces Business Partnership Programs" »
September 03, 2011
Gophers Lose Close Game
The Bishop Lynch defense stopped two Gopher drives in the closing minutes of Friday night’s football game to preserve a 16-13 victory at the Gopher-Warrior Bowl.
Bishop Lynch started the scoring in the first quarter with a 37-yard field goal, but the Gophers came right back, taking the lead on a 70-yard Brandon Fichter touchdown pass to Devante Lacy.
August 27, 2011
Fourth Quarter Field Goal Gives Warriors Win
South Grand Prairie’s new head football coach Brent Whitson made his coaching debut in a dramatic fashion Friday night with a come from behind, fourth quarter field goal for a 26-24 win over Arlington Lamar at the Gopher-Warrior Bowl.
Continue reading "Fourth Quarter Field Goal Gives Warriors Win" »
August 09, 2011
High Schools Begin Football Practice
Under the brutal Texas sun and the area in the grip of a record heat spell, high school football players took to the field Monday to begin practice for the tradition revered by many Texans, Friday night high school football.
August 06, 2011
School District Fails to Meet Adequate Yearly Progress Standards
Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) is a measurement defined by the No Child Left Behind Act that allows the U.S. Department of Education to determine how every public school and school district in the country is performing academically according to results on standardized tests.
Continue reading "School District Fails to Meet Adequate Yearly Progress Standards" »
July 29, 2011
School District’s Rating Drops to Academically Acceptable
The Grand Prairie Independent School District’s rating dropped from Recognized in 2010 to Academically Acceptable.
In 2010 the district had fifteen Exemplary schools, this year that dropped to seven:
Continue reading "School District’s Rating Drops to Academically Acceptable" »
June 22, 2011
School District Hosts Camp Invention
Thanks to a grant from Lockheed Martin Corporation and the assistance of a number of organizations, business and individuals, Lee Elementary School hosted the nationally acclaimed Camp Invention.
June 07, 2011
History Teachers Selected to Participate in Humanities Course
Amber Bermudez, who teaches U.S. history at South Grand Prairie High School, will attend “The Making of Modern America” on the UT Austin campus, and Jayson Mikus,who teaches U.S. history at Grand Prairie High School, will attend “Shaping the American Republic to 1877” at TCU.
Continue reading "History Teachers Selected to Participate in Humanities Course" »
June 04, 2011
Parents Camp Out for Spots at New Arts Academy
Parents began lining up outside Garner Elementary School at 2:00 p.m. Friday to wait for the 8:00 a.m. opening Saturday to make application for their children to attend the new Garner Elementary Fine Arts Academy for the 2011-2012 school year.
The Garner Fine Arts Academy will feature a rigorous curriculum that will accommodate extended Arts instruction in addition to 30 minutes of physical education daily.
Continue reading "Parents Camp Out for Spots at New Arts Academy" »
June 03, 2011
GPHS Senior Wins Car for Perfect Attendance
Twelve GPISD 10-12 grade students recognized for their attendance were randomly drawn for a chance to win a new car Thursday at the culmination of the district’s Every Child, Every Seat, Every Day attendance incentive program that began in January.
With twelve keys on a table but only one that would start the car; each student selected a key to try in the car’s ignition.
Continue reading "GPHS Senior Wins Car for Perfect Attendance" »
June 02, 2011
Open Enrollment for Garner Fine Arts Academy - June 4
Taking advantage of the Grand Prairie ISD’s open enrollment policy, the newly configured Garner Elementary Fine Arts Academy will begin accepting applications for the 2011-2012 school year on Saturday, June 4, beginning at 8:00 a.m. at the campus located at 145 Polo Road.
Continue reading "Open Enrollment for Garner Fine Arts Academy - June 4" »
May 31, 2011
Truman Middle School to Become a STEM Academy for Girls
Continue reading "Truman Middle School to Become a STEM Academy for Girls" »
May 27, 2011
Advantage Academy Donates Computers to Grand Prairie Boys & Girls Club
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| On Wednesday, Assistant Superintendant, Angie McDonald (left) of Advantage Academy donated 27 computers to Julie Mitchell (right) Director of Grand Prairie Boys & Girls Club. Submitted photo |
On Wednesday, Advantage Academy donated 27 computers with flat screen monitors to the Grand Prairie Boys and Girls Club to be used by children up through age 18 for homework, educational learning tools, and tutoring done by National Honor Society students and other volunteers .
Continue reading "Advantage Academy Donates Computers to Grand Prairie Boys & Girls Club" »
May 26, 2011
Shattered Dreams at South Grand Prairie High School
The annual Shattered Dreams mock accident hosted by the Grand Prairie Police Department for high school students to see the results of drunk driving.
This video is of a mock accident with high school students made up to look like injured accident victims. Some of the scenes are graphic and may be disturbing to some people.
May 19, 2011
School District Considers All Girl Campus for Truman Middle School
School district spokesperson Sam Buchmeyer said the all girl campus is one proposal the district is looking at to help it more efficiently utilize Truman and its staff. He continued that for the past few years enrollment at Truman has shrunk. Currently, about 550 students attend Truman. The school was designed to accommodate 800-900 students.
Continue reading "School District Considers All Girl Campus for Truman Middle School" »
May 07, 2011
Soroptimist Girl of the Year Ceremony
May 06, 2011
Gopher Battalion Change of Command Ceremony
Grand Prairie High School’s JROTC Gopher Battalion held its 12th annual Change of Command and Pass in Review ceremony Thursday at The Gopher-Warrior Bowl.
CW4 (Ret) "Chief" Tom Knedler, JROTC leader, said the ceremony is a long standing Army tradition when a command changes and the unit’s colors are passed to the new commander.
The ceremony that involved the entire Gopher Battalion saw outgoing Commander Cadet Colonel Taylor Smith turn over her command of the unit to the newly appointed commander, Cadet Lt. Colonel Alyssa Arredonodo.
Continue reading "Gopher Battalion Change of Command Ceremony" »
May 03, 2011
Teacher Re-elected to Statewide TCTA Office
Gola was elected in February at the association's annual convention in Austin. In this position, Gola oversees the committee that recommends changes and reviews proposals affecting the Association’s structure and governance. As chair of a statewide committee, she also serves on the 10-member TCTA Executive Board and on the Directors’ Council.
Continue reading "Teacher Re-elected to Statewide TCTA Office" »
April 23, 2011
Grand Prairie ISD Principal Selected as Texas National Distinguished Principal Finalist
Susan Meyer, principal of Crockett Fifth Grade Center was recently selected as a Texas National Distinguished Principal (NDP) finalist by the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA).
The NDP program promotes PreK-8 educational excellence and focuses on the fundamental importance of the school principal. The program honors principals who exhibit extraordinary leadership, commitment to their students and staff, service to their communities, and contributions to the profession, including their professional associations.
April 14, 2011
Students Host Birthday Bash
Texas Pythian Home is a non-profit facility in Weatherford that houses children whose families are unable to provide ongoing care and basic needs.
April 02, 2011
Soroptimist Girl of the Month ceremony
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| Soroptmist Girl of the Month ceremony. (L-R) Debbie Bailey (Soroptimist International), Elizabeth Lopez, Marissa Alvarez, Laura Rohloff, Shelby Summers, Monil Ram, Angeleal Giessner (Soroptimist International), Gabriella Lerma. © 2011 - Bob Fitch/Grand Prairie Reporter |
Saturday, the Soroptimist International of Grand Prairie recognized nine high school and middle school girls in the Grand Prairie ISD for their outstanding character, community service and leadership.
Each month the Soroptimist Club honors the winners with a certificate and at the end of the year one girl from each high school is chosen Girl of the Year and awarded a $1,000 scholarship.
Continue reading "Soroptimist Girl of the Month ceremony" »
Volunteers build new community garden at Barbara Bush Elementary
On Saturday, dozens of volunteers took part in a joint Keep Grand Prairie Beautiful and Grand Prairie ISD project to help build a forty raised bed community garden at Barbara Bush Elementary School, 511 E. Springdale.
The workers used cinder blocks to construct the beds that were filled with a special soil mix.
Continue reading "Volunteers build new community garden at Barbara Bush Elementary" »
March 30, 2011
SeaWorld’s conservation program visits school
About 1,000 Grand Prairie ISD students at the South Grand Prairie High School Performing Arts Theatre Wednesday learned how they can help conserve one of the world’s most precious natural resources, wildlife.
Grand Prairie, one of only eight schools state-wide selected, hosted SeaWorld’s conservation educational outreach program, SeaWorld Cares.
Continue reading "SeaWorld’s conservation program visits school" »
March 26, 2011
GPHS CAPERS Forensic Squad Wins at State
Out of the 18 students that competed, 14 advanced to the quarterfinal round, 8 advanced to the semifinal round and 4 students "broke" to the final round.
Continue reading "GPHS CAPERS Forensic Squad Wins at State" »
March 25, 2011
Texas Trust announces winners of High School Spirit Card Design Contest
Texas Trust Credit Union, 425 W. Jefferson, hosted its Grand Prairie Spirit night Thursday to unveil the winning entries to its GPISD High School Spirit Card Design Contest.
The contest that drew 132 entries allowed students at each of the four high schools to submit their own design which they felt captured the true spirit of their school. The winning entries were selected by a panel of judges consisting of GPISD teachers, Texas Trust Credit Union Marketing staff, community partners, and the general public through a Facebook voting application.
Continue reading "Texas Trust announces winners of High School Spirit Card Design Contest" »
March 05, 2011
Soroptimist Girl of the Month ceremony
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| Soroptimist Girl of the Month winners for January and February. (L-R)Elza Vu-Reagan Middle School, Jessica Barnes-Adams Middle School, Juiliana Adame-Arnold Middle School, Viridiana Delgado-Arnold Middle School, Samatha Edwards-Grand Prairie High School, Christina Ayala-Grand Prairie High School, Lydia Hernandez-Grand Prairie High School, Kelly Reyna-Kennedy Middle School, and Elizabeth Parks-Fannin Middle School. Back Row (L-R) Debbie Bailey and Angela Giessner. ©2011 - Bob Fitch/Grand Prairie Reporter |
Saturday, the Soroptimist International of Grand Prairie recognized nine high school and middle school girls in the Grand Prairie ISD for their outstanding character, community service and leadership.
Continue reading "Soroptimist Girl of the Month ceremony" »
March 04, 2011
Warrior football coach named
Whitson who comes from the Richardson ISD has been Richardson High School’s football coach for the past four seasons compiling an 18-24 record. After going 0-10 in his first season, Whitson took Richardson to the playoffs the last two seasons.
School Board calls for $70 million bond election
In a move to help ease the financial strain on the Grand Prairie ISD caused by the state's budget deficit, the Board of Trustees Tuesday night approved a $70 million bond election set for May 14.
If approved by the voters, the monies would be used for:
Continue reading "School Board calls for $70 million bond election" »
March 01, 2011
No teacher layoff, Garner Elementary to remain open
At the meeting held at South Grand Prairie High School, Dr. Hull announced that unlike many school districts in Texas, GPISD will not have a teacher layoff. Although some teachers and administrators may have to relocate campuses, take on additional duties, or move into a different job, all current teachers, except those with performance issues, will be given a new contract.
Continue reading "No teacher layoff, Garner Elementary to remain open" »
February 16, 2011
Rachel’s Challenge – a weeklong GPISD event
“I want to start a chain reaction of kindness that will ripple around the world.” – Rachel Scott
A near capacity crowd filled the Ruthe Jackson Center Wednesday morning to hear Darrel Scott’s message about his 17-year old daughter, Rachel, known for her friendliness and compassionate nature who wanted to change the world through small acts of kindness. Rachel was killed in the Columbine High School shooting in 1999.
Continue reading "Rachel’s Challenge – a weeklong GPISD event" »
February 15, 2011
Superintendent lays out plan to keep Garner Elementary open
“Our dropouts are down, our graduation rate is up,” Dr. Susan Hull, Superintendent of Schools said complementing the district’s teachers, principals, and staff as she spoke about the state’s budget woes. “Right now we [the district] are on the brink of exemplary. We should be stress-free, rocking-n-rolling, getting those kids performing at even a higher level. But, instead I have people worried whether or not they are going to be able to feed their family. It’s just a situation I really regret.”
On Tuesday night Dr. Hull addressed a standing room only crowd in the Garner Elementary School cafeteria about the district’s financial problems because of the state’s deficit. One of the district’s measures to reduce its projected shortfall of $15-$26 million is to close Garner, the district’s smallest school.
Continue reading "Superintendent lays out plan to keep Garner Elementary open" »
February 03, 2011
Schools to close Friday
Other schools closed Friday:
- Arlington ISD
- Cedar Hill ISD
- Mansfield ISD
February 02, 2011
Schools to close Thursday
Other school districts closed:
- Arlington ISD
- Cedar Hill ISD
- Mansfield ISD
January 27, 2011
School district to conduct public hearing on AEIS report
The AEIS report is published annually by the Texas Education Agency. The report includes student performance and profile information concerning students, finances, and staffing.
Continue reading "School district to conduct public hearing on AEIS report" »
January 26, 2011
Teacher of the Year finalists named
Finalists are:
January 19, 2011
GPHS presents "Guys and Dolls"
Grand Prairie High School CAPERS presents its production of the Tony Award winning musical "Guys and Dolls."
January 04, 2011
School district’s Deputy Superintendent to lead Willis ISD
Willis, a district of 6,200 students, is located approximately 50 miles north of Houston.
A special meeting of the Willis ISD Board of Trustees is set for January 5 to formally vote on Dr. Jimerson’s appointment.
Continue reading "School district’s Deputy Superintendent to lead Willis ISD" »
December 13, 2010
School district kicks-off attendance campaign
Grand Prairie ISD School Superintendent Dr. Susan Hull introduced the district’s attendance improvement initiative, Every Child, Every Seat, Every Day, at Monday’s district leadership meeting.
With the ominous prediction of a state budget deficit of between $18-20 billion next year, Dr. Hull said, “We would be remiss if we did not know that is going to impact school funding.”
Continue reading "School district kicks-off attendance campaign" »
December 10, 2010
Reagan Middle School collects winter wear
On Friday, Reagan Middle School donated to Grand Prairie Food and Clothing Co-op sixteen large boxes of warm clothing the students donated to help the less fortunate stay warm as winter approaches.
The school’s student council and sponsors Janaye Easter and Delise Chavers came up with the idea as a way for the students to give back to the community.
Continue reading "Reagan Middle School collects winter wear" »
November 15, 2010
Students paint mural at Prairie Paws Adoption Center
Advanced Art Placement Students at South Grand Prairie High School have almost completed a mural on a wall at the intake office of Prairie Paws Adoption Center.
The project, developed to give a nice background for the Prairie Paws staff to photograph pets ready for adoption, is part of each student’s National Art Honors Society's community service requirement.
Continue reading "Students paint mural at Prairie Paws Adoption Center" »
November 13, 2010
Warriors lose playoff game to Euless Trinity
Undefeated Euless Trinity proved to be too much for the South Grand Prairie Warriors winning Friday night's playoff game 36-16 in North Richland Hills.
Continue reading "Warriors lose playoff game to Euless Trinity" »
November 12, 2010
Powell Elementary makes 2010 TBEC Honor Roll
Continue reading "Powell Elementary makes 2010 TBEC Honor Roll" »
November 11, 2010
Zavala Elementary honors veterans with breakfast
For the fourth consecutive Veterans Day, students and faculty at Zavala Elementary school invited Grand Prairie and surrounding area veterans to the school for breakfast.
The dozens of veterans that came to the school not only got a good breakfast, they were individually recognized by students at a school assembly.
Continue reading "Zavala Elementary honors veterans with breakfast" »
November 09, 2010
Johnson Elementary holds school’s first chili cook-off
“What better way to bring parents in than food,” said Dr. Jerry Burkett, Principal of Johnson Elementary school as hundreds showed up for the school’s PTA meeting Tuesday night to sample the wide variety of chili types at its first annual chili cook-off.
In his first year as principal of Johnson Elementary, Burkett said the staff came up with the idea of the chili cook-off as a fun way to get parents into the school to mix, mingle, and meet one another and to be more involved in their children's education.
Continue reading "Johnson Elementary holds school’s first chili cook-off" »
November 08, 2010
Students get inside look at aviation industry
Fifty Grand Prairie ISD high school students Monday got an inside look at careers in the aviation industry courtesy of Grand Prairie based American Eurocopter.
Andrea Winning, Manager of Public Relations Delivery Center, said the career fair is part of EADS’, the parent company of American Eurocopter, world-wide effort to introduce aviation career opportunities to local students.
Continue reading "Students get inside look at aviation industry" »
November 07, 2010
Playoff game set for South Grand Prairie
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| Walter Butler (48) leaps for a pass in the 50-7 win Friday night over Grand Prairie to put the South Grand Prairie Warriors into the playoffs. ©2010 – Bob Fitch/Grand Prairie Reporter |
The University Interscholastic League (UIL) released its football playoff schedule that matches South Grand Prairie (6-4) against undefeated Trinity Euless (10-0), Friday at 7:30 p.m. at the Birdville ISD Fine Arts/Athletic Complex.
October 30, 2010
Warriors lose close game in Gopher-Warrior Bowl - Gophers lose in Mansfield
Cedar Hill stopped South Grand Prairie on the Longhorn’s 12 yard line with 22 seconds left in the game to hang on to a 28-23 victory Friday night in the Gopher-Warrior Bowl.
The Warriors scored early taking a 16-0 lead into the second quarter, but the Longhorns came back scoring 22 points. The Warriors held a 23-22 lead at halftime.
Continue reading "Warriors lose close game in Gopher-Warrior Bowl - Gophers lose in Mansfield" »
October 26, 2010
Schools kick-off Red Ribbon Week
The Grand Prairie Independent School District kicked-off Red Ribbon Week Monday at a news conference at Dubiski Career High School that featured Superintendent of Schools Dr. Susan Hull, Mayor Pro Tem Ruthe Jackson and students speaking against drug use.
The news conference showcased student efforts to curb drug abuse, to empower students to make positive, healthy choices that create and maintain a safe and drug-free learning environment in Grand Prairie schools.
October 23, 2010
Midlothian routs Gophers - Warriors beat Mansfield Legacy
Midlothian beats the Gophers 54-30 in the Gopher-Warrior Bowl Friday night.
Continue reading "Midlothian routs Gophers - Warriors beat Mansfield Legacy" »
October 17, 2010
Hispanic Heritage Summit - “Heritage, Diversity, Integrity, and Honor”
The goal of the GPISD Hispanic Heritage Summit, as part of the District’s multicultural/diversity program under the Innovation and Support Department, was to be a “unique and inspiring” event that celebrates the Hispanic Culture and honors Hispanic Heritage Month through:
Continue reading "Hispanic Heritage Summit - “Heritage, Diversity, Integrity, and Honor”" »
October 09, 2010
Warriors overpower Mansfield Timberview
South Grand Prairie scored on its first three possessions Friday night against Mansfield Timberview to go on to a 55-0 win in the Gopher Warrior Bowl.
The Warriors dominated the game scoring twenty-one points in the first and third quarters. In all, the Warriors scored eight offensive touchdowns while the Warrior defense intercepted two Timberview passes.
Continue reading "Warriors overpower Mansfield Timberview" »
October 02, 2010
Gophers lose Homecoming to Mansfield Legacy – Warriors lose in Mansfield
Grand Prairie’s offense could only score twice in its 55-13 loss to Mansfield Legacy Friday night in the Gopher-Warrior Bowl spoiling the Gopher’s Homecoming.
Continue reading "Gophers lose Homecoming to Mansfield Legacy – Warriors lose in Mansfield" »
September 25, 2010
Warriors win Homecoming game - Gophers lose
South Grand Prairie won its Homecoming Game Friday night at the Gopher-Warrior Bowl beating Midlothian 17-14.
Grand Prairie lost to Duncanville 6-70 in Duncanville.
September 24, 2010
Warrior Homecoming parade
September 21, 2010
Community support needed to meet middle schools fine arts needs
Beginning with this school year’s sixth graders, every Texas middle school student is required to take a minimum of one fine arts course during grades six, seven, or eight. While students and school districts may choose to meet the new requirement through courses such as choir, art or theatre, there definitely has been a heightened interest in band and orchestra courses which require a musical instrument for each student.
Continue reading "Community support needed to meet middle schools fine arts needs" »
September 17, 2010
School district to host college night for students
The Grand Prairie ISD is serious about student achievement and supporting college bound students is a district wide initiative. Several new initiatives at the state and local level will make a big difference for many GPISD students.
Continue reading "School district to host college night for students" »
September 14, 2010
Students achieve gains on TAKS using digital teaching platform
During the 2009-10 school year, Grand Prairie ISD set out to transform teaching and learning by implementing a one-to-one computing model — where every student and teacher has access to a personal portable computer in a wireless environment — and the Time To Know digital teaching platform in two classes each at Austin Elementary and Whitt Elementary schools. Teachers used the web-based system to guide their classes using an engaging digital curriculum integrated with tools for real-time classroom management, monitoring, planning, assessment and collaboration.
Continue reading "Students achieve gains on TAKS using digital teaching platform" »
September 11, 2010
Gophers win - Warriors lose
The Grand Prairie Gophers stopped a determined W. T. White late in the game to preserve 35-28 win in the Gopher-Warrior Bowl Friday night.
Gopher quarterback Tommy Alvarez started the scoring with a 4-yard run in the first quarter, Alex Rostro kicked the point. On White’s next possession, Gopher defensive back Dewayne Fleeks picked a fumbled and took it back 47-yards for a score, Rostro kicked the point after.
White came back scoring touchdowns in the first and second quarter to tie the score.
September 09, 2010
Chamber honored at School Board meeting
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| Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce is recognized at Thursday's Grand Prairie ISD School Board meeting for its participation in the Great Texas Scholar Program. (L-R)Lynn McGinley, Norm Porter, Terry Brooks (School Board Member), and Lila Thorn. ©Bob Fitch/Grand Prairie Reporter - 2010 |
September 04, 2010
Warriors beat Mesquite 21-18 in Gopher-Warrior Bowl
Jordan Wiggs kicked a 34 –yard field goal with 1:52 left in the game to give the Warriors a 21-18 win over the Mesquite Skeeters Friday night in the Gopher-Warrior Bowl.
Mesquite took an early 10-0 lead, but the Warriors came back with Keonte White scoring on a 65 –yard pass from Jared Johnson in the first quarter. He also ran in for the 2 point conversion.
Warriors again scored in the second quarter when Quarterback Jared Johnson ran 31-yards for a touchdown, Wiggs kicked the extra point to put the Warrior up 15-10 at half-time.
Continue reading "Warriors beat Mesquite 21-18 in Gopher-Warrior Bowl" »
August 29, 2010
Art sculpture lights up the night at Central Park
Thousands of visitors lined the banks of the lakes at Central Park Saturday night to watch the fireworks and the lighting of Grand Prairie’s latest piece of art, the Willow Tree.
The event staged on the grounds of The Summit featured food, beverages, entertainment for visitors of all ages that included the sounds of Grammy Award winning band Brave Combo
But the star of the night was the 30 foot tall, 40 foot wide Willow Tree art sculpture by artists Andy Cao and Xavier Perrot of Cao-Perrot Studios in Los Angeles and Paris, France.
The metal sculpture weighing 15,000 pounds with its 8 inch trunk, fifteen main limbs that sweep and arch downward, contains hundreds of twigs, branches and leaves is set in the lake outside The Summit.
Continue reading "Art sculpture lights up the night at Central Park" »
August 28, 2010
School zone time changes
7:15am to 8:30am
3:00pm to 4:00pm
All Middle Schools:
8:00am to 9:00 am
3:45pm to 4:45pm
All High Schools:
7:00am to 7:45am
2:30pm to 3:15pm
Exceptions: Corn Valley Road and Royal Valley Road (Zavala Elementary and Jackson Middle)
7:15am to 9:00am
3:00pm to 4:45pm
School Board passes budget
The $230,990,811budget provides for items necessary to fund the District’s instructional programs for the 2010-2011 fiscal year. The budget will allow the District to continue to provide the programs necessary to provide students a quality education. The budget includes the District’s debt service requirements and Food Service budget.
August 21, 2010
Warriors final scrimmage - season begins August 27
The South Grand Prairie Warriors held their final scrimmage game Friday night taking on Arlington at the Gopher-Warrior Bowl.
The Warriors open their football season August 27 in Arlington against Arlington Lamar.
August 14, 2010
Warrior red-gold scrimmage
With Friday the first day of contact for high school football teams, the South Grand Prairie Warriors got in lots of hitting Saturday with their Red and Gold intrasquad scrimmage at Warrior Stadium.
A crowd of avid fans showed up for the 8:00 a.m. start time to cheer the team while Warrior coaches got their first real look this season of players in game like situations.
August 11, 2010
High school football teams and bands prepare for season
Although the high temperature was still above 100 degrees Monday, football was in the air as the Gopher and Warrior football players began summer workouts to prepare for their season openers on August 27.
With only three weeks to get ready for their first half-time routine, practice is in full swing for the bands also as they march in the morning heat to perfect their routines.
Continue reading "High school football teams and bands prepare for season" »
August 03, 2010
Dubiski cosmetology students take gold
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| (L-R) Bill Smith, Judge, Dallas ISD; Cindy Espinoza and Veronica Juarez, Dubiski Career High School; Post-Secondary winners, unidentified. Photo by Larry Stephens/GPISD |
After the team of Cindy Espinoza, Maritza Montanez, and Veronica Juarez took fourth in last year’s completion, they came home determined to take the gold medal this year.
The team worked all year on their gold medal winning entry, a leather bound OSHA book that contained four separate projects on safety and sanitation designed to help fellow students, schools, and the entire community lead healthier and safer lives.
July 30, 2010
Grand Prairie ISD named Recognized District
More rigorous standards were implemented this year to determine the state’s Recognized rating. The new standards require 80 percent of all students and each evaluated student group to pass the TAKS, compared to 75 percent in previous years. Additionally, the school or district must achieve an 85 percent completion rate and must now have an annual seventh and eighth-grade dropout rate of 1.8 percent or below. The previous seventh and eighth-grade dropout rate requirement was 2 percent.
Continue reading "Grand Prairie ISD named Recognized District" »
June 17, 2010
Daniels Elementary hosts summer wind fair academy for students
More than fifty students of Daniels Elementary spent two weeks after school let out attending a summer academy studying wind as an alternative energy source.
The academy, made possible through REAL School Gardens who provided material to build and study wind turbines with a grant from the Motorola Foundation, gave students an opportunity to study real life problems along with improving their reading, math, and science skills.
Continue reading "Daniels Elementary hosts summer wind fair academy for students" »
June 04, 2010
School district expects to be named “Recognized”
If these preliminary scores hold true, the District will have a total of 32 of its 38 eligible campuses rated either Recognized or Exemplary. Only 5 will be rated as Academically Acceptable with no Academically Unacceptable campuses.
Continue reading "School district expects to be named “Recognized”" »
May 31, 2010
NAACP calls for emergency school board meeting
Continue reading "NAACP calls for emergency school board meeting" »
May 29, 2010
Warriors close spring drills with scrimmage
May 15, 2010
12th annual Mayfest at Kirby Creek Park
May 12, 2010
Congressman Marchant presents awards to outstanding students
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| Submitted photo |
U.S. Congressman Kenny Marchant (TX – 24) presented awards on May 11 to students from Euless and Grand Prairie Harmony Science Academies. The students were recognized in the Congressman’s district office for their high achievements in state-wide science competitions.
The Congressman awarded each student with a certificate of Congressional recognition. After being awarded, each student described to the Congressman the details of their science projects.
Continue reading "Congressman Marchant presents awards to outstanding students" »
May 06, 2010
Science academy students win gold at Science Olympiad
A group of students from Harmony Science Academy Grand Prairie Campus recently took part in the Texas Science Olympiad held April 23-24 at College Station, Teams and captured gold medals in two events, fourth in a third.
The group of fifteen students was divided into two-man teams that competed in 20 separate events.
Continue reading "Science academy students win gold at Science Olympiad" »
May 04, 2010
Shattered Dreams – drunk driving accident enactment at Grand Prairie High
With Grand Prairie High School’s prom only a few days away, students got to see first-hand the lasting effects of driving and drinking.
On Monday hundreds of students watched as police, firefighters, paramedics, and student actors reenacted a fatal automobile accident in the school parking lot.
Continue reading "Shattered Dreams – drunk driving accident enactment at Grand Prairie High" »
April 17, 2010
The Grand Prairie Optimist Club honors 5th graders
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| Submitted photo |
Over 300 people gathered at Bush Elementary School on April 15 to honor the “Most Outstanding 5th Graders” in all the Grand Prairie elementary schools, both public and private.
Hosted by the Optimist Cub of Grand Prairie to “bring out the best in kids,” the annual Youth Appreciation Night recognized students, their families and their teachers.
Continue reading "The Grand Prairie Optimist Club honors 5th graders" »
April 15, 2010
Kindergarten registration begins
To attend kindergarten, children must be five years old on or before September 1.
April 14, 2010
GPISD presents Artists in Bloom
This visual arts showcase will feature student work from many GPISD campuses. Admission is free and there will be a performance by the South Grand Prairie High School Orchestra and refreshments.
Source: GPISD
Electronics recycling at Dickinson Elementary
On April 17, Dickinson Elementary, 1902
Electronics should be recycled when possible and kept out of
our landfills. Each electronic device may contain small amounts of hazardous
chemicals (such as lead and mercury). Keeping toxic materials from landfills
and recycling the rest to make new products is the best way to protect our
environment and extend the useful life of our landfills.
Accepted electronics:
Continue reading "Electronics recycling at Dickinson Elementary" »
April 13, 2010
Former state champion - Gophers new basketball coach
Inman comes from Arlington Bowie and brings 20 years of coaching experience to a struggling Gopher basketball program that finished the season with a 0-26 record.
Continue reading "Former state champion - Gophers new basketball coach" »
April 10, 2010
SGPHS Jazz Band performs at April Concerts in the Park
South Grand Prairie High School’s award winning Jazz Band was the featured performers at Friday night’s Grand Prairie Arts Council’s April Concert in the Park at the Turner Park Gazebo.
Friday night’s concert was second of four in the series. Remaining concerts include:
Continue reading "SGPHS Jazz Band performs at April Concerts in the Park" »
April 06, 2010
Art student works to finish decorated cow
With an April 13 deadline looming, Sarah Dinh is putting in lots of extra class and after school time working on the fiberglass cow she is painting for the Fifth Annual Lucerne The Art of Dairy art contest.
The South Grand Prairie High School senior is one of thirty finalists selected from the more than 9,600 entries in this year’s nationwide art contest with the theme “Taste of Moo-sic.”
Continue reading "Art student works to finish decorated cow" »
April 01, 2010
Texas offers free SAT/ACT tests to high school juniors
Thanks to funding from the Texas Legislature, the Texas Education Agency has contracted with ACT and The College Board, which oversees the SAT testing program, to make free tests available this spring and early summer. This is part of a larger effort to increase college preparation efforts in the state.
Continue reading "Texas offers free SAT/ACT tests to high school juniors" »
March 10, 2010
Student named finalist in nationwide art contest
Continue reading "Student named finalist in nationwide art contest" »
March 05, 2010
Sallye Moore Elementary gets new Outdoor Learning Center
Students, parents, teachers, and community volunteers got to take advantage of the warm spring like weather Thursday to work in the soil as they built flower beds, sowed seeds and planted trees and shrubs for the new Outdoor Learning Center at Sallye Moore Elementary School.
The new learning garden was made possible through a grant from REAL School Gardens, a Fort Worth based organization that brings gardens to elementary schools in North Texas.
Continue reading "Sallye Moore Elementary gets new Outdoor Learning Center" »
March 02, 2010
School district first in the nation to launch Digital Teaching Platform
Continue reading "School district first in the nation to launch Digital Teaching Platform" »
February 24, 2010
Traveling energy exhibit visits Dickinson Elementary
Fourth and fifth grade students at Dickinson Elementary school Tuesday got to experience a curriculum-based, hands-on activities about energy, the technologies, and sciences involved with the oil and natural gas industry.
Presented by the Houston based Offshore Energy Center, Dickinson was one of only five schools in the metroplex to host the Mobile Offshore Learning Unit (MOLA) traveling exhibit.
Continue reading "Traveling energy exhibit visits Dickinson Elementary" »
February 11, 2010
School districts cancel classes for Friday
- Grand Prairie ISD
- Arlington ISD
- Mansfield ISD
Grand Prairie ISD winter weather update
Therefore, we are encouraging parents to come and pick up their children if at all possible. Students will be released by being signed out in the office by a parent or person designated on the emergency list. No student will be released by phone call. If you are unable to pick up your child, we will, of course, make arrangements to keep your child safe and warm until he/she is picked up.
Continue reading "Grand Prairie ISD winter weather update" »
January 23, 2010
Parent training seminars announced
Seminars will include information on various topics, including futures planning, sensory regulation (including feeding and toileting), language and communication, and community resources.
