The AVID elective

Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is an academic, regularly scheduled elective class based on writing as a tool of learning, collaborative grouping, and the inquiry method. The three main components of AVID are academic instruction, tutorial support, and motivational activities. AVID students are typically those "in the middle" who are often underserved, underrepresented, or the first potential college student in their family.

The AVID program is designed to increase school wide learning and performance. Ideally, AVID functions to ensure that the enrolled student will succeed in a rigorous curriculum, enter the mainstream activities of the school, and become an educated and responsible participant and leader in a democratic society. However, the overall goal of the AVID program is to prepare students for four-year college eligibility. The elective course provides support for this goal through tutorial sessions, writing instruction, reinforcement of study skills, and time management techniques. The AVID students learn to work cooperatively as a support system for each other and form a trusted core of dedicated students to rely upon. These students gain confidence in their own abilities while learning to assist their peers.

AVID is successful in assisting students in their goals toward college entrance for several reasons. First of all, AVID classes are an integral part of the regular school day. This consistency provides the students with a vital support network that meets regularly. Secondly, all students and staff involved in the program choose to participate. This voluntary status empowers the students and teachers to create a positive and successful environment. Thirdly, all students are placed in a rigorous college preparatory curriculum on campus while having access to trained tutors in their AVID elective to clarify subject matter and facilitate students' growth as independent learners. The students are encouraged to take AP and honors level courses with the knowledge that they will have support for their academic success. Finally and most importantly, the AVID program has a strong school, regional, and statewide support system that enables students and teachers to excel. This network of trained educators and tutors allows the students to have access to a wealth of knowledge from a variety of sources.