AVID in middle school, also known as AVID Secondary, is a program designed to prepare students, particularly those in the academic middle, for college readiness and success in rigorous coursework. It focuses on developing academic skills, organizational strategies, and a college-going culture.
Key aspects of AVID in middle school
- AVID Elective:
- A year-long elective course where students learn and practice skills like writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization, and critical thinking (WICOR).
- AVID Schoolwide:
- A broader approach where AVID strategies are implemented across all classrooms to improve academic performance and college readiness for all students.
- Targeted Support:
- AVID identifies students who have the potential to succeed in rigorous coursework but may need additional support to reach their full potential.
- Skills Development:
- Students learn and practice note-taking, time management, research skills, and public speaking.
- College and Career Readiness:
- AVID exposes students to college and career options through field trips, guest speakers, and information about college admissions.
- Cohort Model:
- Students in the elective course typically remain together as a cohort, building a sense of community and support.
Specific to Middle School
- AVID can be implemented in 7th, and 8th grades.
- The AVID elective course is designed to help students transition into more challenging high school courses.
- Some middle schools offer an AVID Excel course for students to accelerate their academic language acquisition and prepare for the AVID elective.
- AVID aims to create a supportive and challenging environment where students develop the skills and mindset needed to thrive in high school and pursue their college aspirations, according to Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) Center.
