AVID

AVID, which stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination, is a non-profit organization and a college readiness program. Its primary mission is to close the opportunity gap by preparing all students for college and career success in a global society. Baldwin High School AVID students will have the opportunities to take dual credit UHMC courses providing them a jumpstart in their college career. 

Here's a breakdown of what AVID is and how it works:

Core Purpose:

• College and Career Readiness: AVID is a system-wide approach that aims to increase the number of students who are prepared for and succeed in higher education.

   

• Target Population: While AVID benefits all students, it specifically targets students who are in the "academic middle"—those who have the potential to succeed in rigorous coursework but may need additional support to reach their goals. Many of these students are the first in their families to attend college or are from groups traditionally underrepresented in higher education.

• Key Components and Strategies:

   

• AVID Elective Class: At the secondary level (middle and high school), a core component is the AVID elective class. For one period each day, students in this class receive direct support in developing the skills and behaviors needed for college.

   

• WICOR Strategies: AVID's instructional model is based on the acronym WICOR, which stands for:

   

  • Writing: Students learn to use writing as a tool for learning, thinking, and communication.

     

  • Inquiry: Students are trained to ask higher-level questions and engage in critical thinking.

     

  • Collaboration: Students work together in groups to solve problems and learn from one another.

     

  • Organization: Students learn time management, note-taking (often using the Cornell Notes system), and other organizational skills.

     

  • Reading to Learn: Students develop critical reading skills to improve their comprehension of academic texts.

     

• Tutorials: AVID students participate in structured tutorials twice a week. These sessions, often led by college students, are collaborative study groups where students work together to resolve points of confusion in their academic classes using an inquiry-based approach.

• College and Career Exploration: The program includes activities like college field trips, guest speakers, and guidance on the college application process, including financial aid and scholarship applications.