Principal’s Perspective
A Tradition of Excellence

Welcome to the 2006-07 school year at Grapevine Elementary School.  To those of you who are new to the GES community as well as to those who are returning, we are excited about the year and look forward to working together to see that our GES Stars keep shining as brightly as ever. 

When I first arrived at GES four years ago, I was well aware of the standard that had been set by Julia Lyda and the incredibly talented staff she had assembled.  I soon learned of the many traditions that were so firmly established in the culture of the campus.  During my time here, I have come to appreciate each of these traditions so much more because of their focus upon the students. 

Although not every student can be involved in every program or activity, a wide variety of activities exists for students to choose to participate.  Some of our most significant activities have no boundaries whatsoever.  Events like our Book Parade, Field Day, Success Ceremonies, our sing alongs, and the classroom activities during Heritage Day are available for all to enjoy.

As I have had time to ponder the events that have marked my time at GES, I have given thought to the highlights.  With the exception of “once in a lifetime events” like the Huey 091 trip into history at the Smithsonian Museum and Kathy Alexander-Dirmeier’s final choir performance in front of all of the fans at Ameriquest Field last May, many of the highlights have come from those activities open to all. 

There has been a focus at GES from its very beginning to establish a climate in which successes are celebrated.  We have emphasized through morning announcements as well as other special presentations in the classroom that the greatest failure in life is the failure to try.  This does not mean trying only when you know the answer or when you are certain you will out perform the majority.  This does not mean only putting forth effort when the conditions are to your liking.  What we attempt to instill within our students is the initiative and the confidence to try, to put forth maximum effort, to do one’s personal best because it is the right thing to do and will make each of us better and stronger.  This is true whether there is a final score given, a numeric or letter grade, a medal / trophy / certificate / or ribbon, or even a verbal acknowledgement.

The tradition of excellence began even before the doors opened in 1994 and will live on for years to come as long we continue to work together to help all of our students to feel secure enough to risk failure in their attempt to achieve their personal best.  I thank you in advance for helping each of our GES Stars (both students and staff) to Keep Shining brightly throughout this year and the years to come!