AVID: Advancement Via Individual Determination
"The goal of education in America must be for the purpose of teaching all of our students to the very highest levels—for lifting up all people." —Mary Catherine Swanson, AVID Founder
The aim is to prepare students for success in high school, college, and a career. AVID puts a special focus on subgroups of students that have historically been underrepresented in higher education and trains its educators in academic practices that are proven to deliver results from students.
No matter what post-secondary path high school graduates choose, students must develop certain essential skills to design their own futures: critical thinking, collaboration, reading, writing, and relationship building. The development of these skills is rooted in belief in self. If students believe they are capable, there is a foundational confidence to learn and a resiliency to overcome setbacks.
When educators believe in students, learning and confidence are activated. With teacher support for developing a growth mindset and the academic skills they need for future success, students grow to see their capabilities and find their own way.