Advancement Via Individual Determination, AVID, is a seventh through twelfth grade program that prepares students in the academic middle for admission to a four-year college or university. Students take an AVID elective course throughout middle school and high school that provides them with the skills needed to be successful in advancing academically with the ultimate goal of attending college. For more than 25 years AVID has been instrumental in preparing students for success in higher education. It has a proven track record of bringing out the best in students and in closing the achievement gap. 

The core component of the AVID Program is the AVID elective, which supports students as they challenge themselves in more rigorous classes. Students are taught study skills, note taking, time management, writing and research skills, while being immersed in a college-going culture. The class also includes tutoring sessions that are led by AVID peers, JSHS Staff and community volunteers, to provide support for success in the academically rigorous curriculum. Additionally, the AVID class provides access to information about colleges and universities through field trips, guest speakers, scholarship opportunities and college admission requirement information.

Example 4 year plans for AVID students: