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Nine GCISD fine arts music programs are 2025 Mark of Excellence and Citation of Excellence awards winners, distinctions presented by The Foundation for Music Education. 

The Mark of Excellence awards recognize outstanding achievement in performance by high school and middle school varsity bands, choirs and orchestras across the United States. The top 25% of entrants are recognized as national winners, while the second 25% are named commended winners. 

The Citation of Excellence distinction recognizes outstanding achievement in performance by non-varsity high school and middle school bands and orchestras. The top 25% of entrants are recognized as Citation Winners, with the second 25% named Commended Winners. 

“These awards are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, our band directors and our families, who all continue to inspire us with their talent, efforts, and passion for music.” GCISD Fine Arts Director Dr. Paul Sikes stated. “It's a true reflection of the outstanding fine arts programs here in GCISD."

Congratulations to GCISD’s honorees:

Mark of Excellence (varsity bands)

  • Colleyville Middle School Honors Band, Class A National Winner

  • Cross Timbers Middle School Honors Band, Class AA National Winner

  • Grapevine Middle School Honors Band, Class AA Commended Winner

  • Colleyville Heritage High School Wind Ensemble, Class AAAAA National Winner

  • Grapevine High School Wind Ensemble, Class AAAAA National Winner

Citation of Excellence (non-varsity bands)

  • Colleyville Middle School Symphonic Band, Class A Citation Winner

  • Heritage Middle School Symphonic Band, Class A Commended Winner

  • Colleyville Heritage High School Symphonic Band, Class AAAAA Citation Winner

  • Grapevine High School Honors Band, Class AAAAA Citation Winner