Jim Calvin became principal of Grapevine Elementary in 2002 following the retirement of Julia Lyda, who opened the school in 1994. Mr. Calvin began his career as a high school language arts teacher and coach before moving to the middle school level to teach reading and language arts. He acquired his elementary teaching certificate and taught language arts and social studies at the elementary level while working on his Master’s degree in Educational Administration. Upon completion of his degree and subsequent certification, he became an assistant principal in Carroll ISD where he spent three years before being named Principal of Prairie View Intermediate School in Northwest ISD. Having spent two years there, he pursued the opportunity to join Grapevine-Colleyville in order to work closer to home and work within the same district as his wife, who taught and coached at Colleyville Middle School until the birth of their first child. They now have one daughter and one son.

Mr. Calvin enjoys the opportunity to work with the wonderful students, talented staff, and supportive parents as he attempts to carry on the tradition of excellence at Grapevine Elementary. During his time at GES the school has been invited to be a part of The Journey Home of Huey 091 as this vintage Huey helicopter that survived many missions during the Vietnam conflict made its journey into history becoming the largest single artifact in the Price of Freedom exhibit at the Smithsonian Museum of National History in Washington D.C. The GES Choir was also privileged to perform the National Anthem for the Texas Rangers as Kathy Alexander conducted her farewell performance as director of the choir. Many traditions continue to be embraced and celebrated as part of the GES culture. Some have been expanded in recent years including our Student Council and KGES as well as adding such student opportunities as a new school store. The campus continues to maintain its Exemplary rating and has received numerous Gold Performance acknowledgements as well. The number of students passing each test has increased as well as the number who have achieved Commended Performance. These are just a few of the ways in which GES continues to strive to see that each and every student has an opportunity to experience success.

“I am privileged and blessed to work with such an outstanding group of people. The success of this school began many years ago, and my desire is to see this school continue to get even better with each passing year. The only way this can happen is by everyone working together. The credit for our continued success should be given to the students, staff, and parents who work tirelessly each day to give their personal best effort. With each person taking responsibility and putting forth consistent effort, the Stars at GES will continue to shine brightly within this community and throughout the state and nation for years to come!”