What is AVID?
AVID stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination and is an academic elective class designed to close the achievement gap by preparing students for career and college readiness. AVID students are individuals who work hard and want to be prepared to succeed in college, career, and life. Students considered for AVID are bright students who might want to be challenged more than they currently are, are members of underrepresented communities in the college system, or are first-generation college students.
The AVID system has a proven track record in bringing out the best in students, and accelerating their academic and professional trajectories. In 2017, over 88% of AVID graduates were accepted into four-year colleges and universities (the US average is 79%). Two years later, 85% of those AVID students were still enrolled (the US average is 78%). This success is achieved by leveraging research-based strategies meant to develop essential academic skills and meta-cognitive awareness.
What happens in AVID?
AVID seeks to ensure that students are academically and socially prepared to succeed in college. For four years, the AVID system focuses on developing the academic skills students will need for future success. AVID students take the most rigorous classes they can, but receive time in AVID to get help with their coursework. The system also ensures students are aware of all the necessary steps they must take to be admitted to a college or university, including helping students prepare for the SAT tests. Another exciting aspect, which many students believe is the best part of AVID, are the many field trips the AVID classes take to explore nearby colleges and universities.
Learn more at: www.avid.org
What is expected from our AVID students?
AVID students MUST: attend and be on time to classes, maintain all parts of the AVID binder, complete all homework assignments and commit to reading/studying each day, maintain a GPA of 2.7, challenge themselves to take Honors and AP classes, positively represent the AVID system, and help to create a safe environment for everyone’s success. AVID students are those students who strive to be better learners and don’t settle for the status quo.
What is expected from our AVID guardians?
Communication between the AVID teacher and the parent/guardian(s) is essential. I appreciate any and all contact I receive from my AVID parents. At home, parents should ensure students are doing their homework in a quiet place with few interruptions. Be sure to check in with your student about their school day. We want to connect a student’s school life and home life. When the two are connected, success increases. Finally, stressing your belief that your student can succeed in school and attend college will motivate them to work harder and achieve more.