AVID positively impacts all students at Adam Stephens Middle School by creating a culture oriented to a successful future and focused on the strategies students need to get there. Salem-Keizer School District´s mission statement calls for all students to graduate prepared for a successful life after high school. At Adam Stephens Middle School, our core belief is that all students can–and will–learn at high levels, regardless of their background or ability. These high expectations, coupled with our aspirations for our students’ futures, align with AVID’s stated mission of closing the achievement gap by preparing all students for college readiness and success in a global society.
What is AVID?
AVID, Advancement Via Individual Determination, is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the achievement gap by preparing all students for college and other postsecondary opportunities.
At its heart, AVID is a philosophy:
Hold students accountable to the highest standards, provide academic and social support, and they will rise to the challenge.
What is AVID Schoolwide?
AVID essentially has two parts that work to transform a school on the student, classroom, and faculty levels. The first part is the AVID Schoolwide system. A school is AVID Schoolwide when its classroom instruction, systems, leadership, and culture ensure students’ college readiness and improve academic performance for all students as a result of increased opportunities.
Within the AVID schoolwide system is the AVID Elective, which further includes AVID Excel. AVID students in the Elective have been recommended and have applied in order to be in the elective. AVID propels all students to reach their potential, especially students that are first generation college students, students historically underrepresented on college campuses, and students affected by poverty. All AVID students have high potential for success given the support of rigorous curriculum, high accountability, and great community in the context of a college-going culture. Students commit to the AVID elective class from the 6th grade through their senior year of high school in order to prepare themselves for success now and when they arrive at a 4-year university.
Please visit AVID´s website for further information about the AVID organization.