Phoenix News

Phoenix Family,

We are thrilled to announce that GCISD Collegiate Academy at Tarrant County College Northeast has been designated a National Blue Ribbon School by the United States Department of Education (USDE). This prestigious honor is awarded to less than half of 1% of schools nationwide, and only seven high schools in Texas received this distinction in the 2024 cohort.

Our nomination to the USDE by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) was based on three years of outstanding student outcomes data. Following this nomination, a dedicated team from our Collegiate Academy, including Kristinia Haney and Aaron Geer, crafted over 25 pages of narratives detailing how we achieve these remarkable outcomes.

While we were honored to share our story, it is truly our students who deserve the credit. Day in and day out, they show up with determination and enthusiasm, striving to reach their goals. The tenacity and eagerness they demonstrate in seizing the incredible opportunity of earning both their high school diploma and associate's degree simultaneously, is nothing short of remarkable. Everyone who visits our campus echoes the sentiment: CA is a special place to be!

A heartfelt thank you to the CA Family Booster Club for generously donating over 350 "Blue" donuts for our staff and students. Additionally, I want to express my gratitude for our longstanding partnership with TCC Northeast. When we shared the news of our celebration with Interim President Dr. Jan Clayton, she was eager to join us for our BLUE OUT. Her unwavering support for our staff and students is deeply appreciated.

If you missed the social media post, check out these links.

GCISD Article

USDE Article

All In, All Together,

Mrs. Jackson

We would like to recognize our own Phoenix, Yazen Tawfik, in receiving the Shining Star Volunteer Award. This award was given to him by demonstration of dedication and hard work. Out of approximately 5,000 volunteers, Yasen was one of only 10 volunteers to earn this award. We are so proud of Yazen for representing what it means to be a Phoenix in our great community!

We’re thrilled to announce that our Spirit Squad has revealed their "littles" for the 2024-2025 school year! This tradition allows our experienced members to mentor newer students, fostering connections and building a strong sense of community.

This year, we’re particularly excited to support our soccer teams and elevate school spirit together. Let’s make it an amazing year! Go, CA!

October 4th - Underclassmen Pictures / Friday School

October 22nd - GCISD College Night

Legacy Studios will take yearbook pictures for 9th, 10th and 11th grade students on October 4th. Photos will be taken during social studies classes for 9th and 10th grade. 11th grade students will take their photos during their study hall or independent study time.

At CA, we are fortunate to have extra time for targeted support on some specific Friday afternoons. This coming Friday, October 4th, marks our scheduled Friday School. If students are assigned Friday school, parents and students have received a notification from their teacher(s).

Friday School provides essential intervention from our teachers and is assigned with specific intention. We ask for your partnership in reminding your students that attendance at Friday School is mandatory when it’s in session.

Snacks will be provided. Students being picked up by cars should be picked up at 4:30pm. For students wanting to take advantage of riding the bus, one that drops students off at Mustang Panther Stadium will be provided.

Thank you for your continued support! If you have any questions, please reach out to jessica.heaton@gcisd.net.

We’re thrilled to share that the 2025–26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form will be available to everyone on or before December 1, 2024!

Before the official release, FAFSA will be conducting beta tests to ensure a smooth and effective experience for students. Starting October 1, a select group of students will be chosen to get early access to the 2025–26 FAFSA form. This is an exclusive opportunity for those invited to participate in the beta release. Be sure to check your email for updates from FAFSA regarding your participation.

Stay tuned for more updates, and get ready to take the next step in your educational journey! We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Please reach out to daina.gardner@gcisd or yvonne.aguirre@gcisd.net with any questions.

View VATRE Facebook Live Presentation

In case you missed it, GCISD’s Facebook Live Presentation held Wednesday, September 18, about the upcoming voter-approved tax ratification election (VATRE) is available on GCISD’s YouTube Channel and the district’s Facebook page. Hear from Superintendent Dr. Brad Schnautz and Chief Financial Officer Derick Sibley share details about the VATRE, why the election has been called and its impact on the tax rate.

La presentación Facebook Live sobre el VATRE está en YouTube

En caso de que se lo perdió, GCISD's Facebook Live Presentación celebrada el miércoles, 18 de septiembre, sobre la próxima elección de ratificación de impuestos aprobados por los votantes (VATRE) está disponible en el canal de YouTube de GCISD y la página de Facebook del distrito. Escuche al Superintendente Dr. Brad Schnautz y al Director Financiero Derick Sibley compartir detalles sobre el VATRE, por qué se ha pedido la elección y su impacto en la tasa impositiva.

Register by October 7 to Vote in the November Election

Monday, October 7, is the deadline to register to vote in the November 5, 2024, general election. Please visit VoteTexas.gov for information on how to register. Additional important dates are:

• Early voting: Monday, October 21 through Friday, November 1

• Deadline to apply for ballot by mail: Friday, October 25

• Election Day: Tuesday, November 5

Stay informed about GCISD’s voter–approved tax ratification election by visiting www.GCISD.net/VATRE.

Regístrese antes del 7 de octubre para votar en las elecciones de noviembre

El lunes 7 de octubre vence el plazo para registrarse para votar en las elecciones generales del 5 de noviembre de 2024. Por favor, visite VoteTexas.gov para obtener información sobre cómo registrarse. Otras fechas importantes son:

• El periodo de votación anticipada: Será del lunes 21 de octubre al viernes 1 de noviembre

• El último día para solicitar una boleta para votar por correo: Viernes, 25 de octubre

• Día de las elecciones: Martes, 5 de noviembre.

Manténgase informado sobre la elección de ratificación de impuestos aprobada por los votantes de GCISD visitando www.GCISD.net/VATRE.

Website: http://www.gcisd-k12.org/Domain/2203
Location: 828 W Harwood Rd, North Richland Hills, TX 76180
Phone: 817-515-6775
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Grapevine-Colleyville-ISD-Collegiate-Academy
Twitter: @GCCA_PHX