Imagine a cold winter's night, stars twinkling in the sky and a child wrapped up in mittens and a hooded coat? That's the image that was selected for the District's annual holiday greeting card and the artist who drew it is Jinny Seo, 8th grader at Heritage Middle School.

Cold has finally arrived, bringing with it the chance of icy roads and conditions that may make it necessary for the schools in Grapevine-Colleyville ISD to be closed for the safety of students and staff.

If schools are to close due to inclement weather, a special FastNews email newsletter will be sent to subscribers advising them of the decision. An announcement will be posted on the District's website as soon as the decision has been made. In addition, parents and students are advised to listen to local radio or television stations for a current news report.

March 24 and June 5 have been designated as bad weather makeup days for any days missed.

GCISD has a variety of exciting events and activities happening every week at campuses throughout the District. From PTA meetings and school programs to District celebrations and student achievements, you're sure to find something in Around the District.

GCISD schools and administrative offices will be closed beginning Friday, Dec. 21 for Winter Break. Employees will return Jan. 2 for staff development and students will return Jan. 3.

GCISD students will enjoy early dismissal on Dec. 20, the last day before winter break. Elementary students will be released at 11:30 a.m., middle school students will be released at Noon and high schools will release students at 12:30 p.m.

As a reminder, the 2007-08 Student/Teacher calendar designates Friday, Jan. 18 as the end of the first semester.

Students don't get to go to school in their pajamasoften, so when they do get that chance most want to be in on the fun. Over 250 students and their families turned out for Bransford Elementary's annual "Snuggle Up and Read Night" in the school cafeteria.

As students and their parents cuddled together on blankets and quilts, "celebrities" from around the school district read their favorite books out loud. Sarah Hodges, principal, said that the event, sponsored by a group of teachers at the school, promotes family time as well as enjoyment of reading.

You can listen to a podcast or see photos from the event by selecting the link below.