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AVID: A College and Career Readiness System

What is AVID?

Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is an internationally-recognized, college-readiness program for eligible middle school and high school students. AVID is intended to accelerate the performance of students who function academically in the middle range and who have the potential and motivation to work hard to qualify to attend a four-year college. The Snoqualmie Valley School District established the AVID program as part of its commitment to helping all students prepare for college and careers.

The AVID Elective

The core of AVID is an elective class offered in middle and high school. It targets students in the academic middle (B and C students) with the desire to go to college and the willingness to work hard. AVID places these students on the college track, requiring them to enroll in the most rigorous courses that are appropriate for them while providing them with support for their rigorous coursework. When possible, students in the AVID program remain with the same teacher and AVID classmates, as they advance to subsequent grade levels during their high school careers. This consistency fosters supportive relationships and can help boost confidence. In addition to social emotional benefits, other objectives of the AVID program include:

Developing academic skills so students may enroll and succeed in college prep, honors and AP classes

Improving college level entry skills, such as note-taking, critical thinking, and study skills

Providing guidance and encouragement from college mentors

Ensuring students meet admission requirements of four-year colleges and universities

Preparation for SAT and ACT college entrance exams

Increasing college/career awareness through field trips and guest speakers

Assisting in the college application process

Expanding knowledge of college scholarships and financial aid opportunities

Who is a good candidate?

Potential AVID students may meet some of the following criteria:

GPA of 2.0-3.5

Is proficient or on the "bubble" of state tests

Is able to complete four-year university entrance requirements prior to graduation

Is a hard worker, has a positive attitude, and is collaborative in nature

May be underrepresented racially, culturally, or economically in college and universities

Has potential, but may also have special circumstances that could be obstacles to achievement

The Application Process

Students must apply for the AVID program which includes an application and interview. There are a limited number of places for each class, and a level of commitment is expected from AVID students. For more information concerning the application process please contact the participating school. Snoqualmie Valley School District participating schools include:

Mt. Si High School

Twin Falls Middle School

Chief Kanim Middle School

Snoqualmie Middle School

Interested in becoming an AVID Tutor? The program offers paid tutor positions for college students, students in the high school's Running Start program, or adult paraeducators who serve as mentors in AVID classrooms, providing insight that can help prepare students for success in college.

Questions? For more information about the Snoqualmie Valley School District AVID program, or if you're interested in becoming a tutor, please contact the District AVID Coordinator Shawn Lawrence (lawrences@svsd410.org).

For additional information on AVID, please see http://www.avid.org.