AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a college preparatory program designed to provide the academic support necessary to gain acceptance into a 4-year college or university following high school graduation.  Strategies which will be developed and refined during the four-year program are rooted in the WICOR structure (Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, and Reading).  Writing, research and inquiry skills are also stressed, becoming more complex throughout the program to meet the demands of rigorous high school courses and ultimately prepare students for success throughout college.  Furthermore, students will receive tutorial time to gain greater understanding of difficult subject matter from their classes. 

Students must apply, interview and be selected to participate in the program. Once selected, students are expected to remain in the program throughout high school school.  By remaining in the program for at least 3 years in high school (including a student's senior year), students are able to earn the AVID cord, an academic honor they can showcase at Arundel High School's graduation.

The AVID program provides highly motivated students with the opportunity to learn success skills that can be applied in their other core classes (math, English, social studies, science). Students who embrace and apply skills and strategies taught in the AVID elective classrooms will gain confidence in navigating the academic expectations of post-secondary education.

AVID prepares students to enter and be successful in college or other global pursuits that require additional education.

During AVID classes, students receive instruction in:

• reading/writing across the curriculum

• note and test-taking strategies

• study skills and strategies

• organization

• time management