Sequoia Union High School District

AVID Program

AVID stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination. It is a fourth- through twelfth-grade system (program) to prepare students in the academic middle for four-year college eligibility. These are students who are capable of completing a college-prep curriculum but may be falling short of their potential. The core component is the AVID elective, which supports students as they tackle the most rigorous classes. AVID’s teaching strategies, curriculum, and trainings are used not only in the AVID elective class, but by subject-area teachers schoolwide.

Scroll to the bottom of the page for informational webinar recordings and frequently asked questions about AVID at SUHSD.

Ready to apply? Click the buttons below to download a PDF version of the application or apply online. When applying online, students will need the name and email address of a teacher/counselor who will recommend them for the program.

AVID Application (PDF)

AVID Online Application

The AVID Student

AVID students are enrolled in an academic elective class-called AVID-taught within the school day by a trained AVID teacher. The three main components of the program are academic instruction, tutorial support, and motivational activities. Their self-images improve and they become academically successful leaders and role models for other students. They are proud to be in the program. In addition, most AVID students who participate for at least three years in the program are accepted to college, with roughly three quarters getting into four-year universities. AVID also helps ensure that students, once accepted to college, possess the higher-level skills they need for college success.

The AVID Curriculum

The AVID curriculum, based on rigorous standards, was developed by middle and senior high school teachers in collaboration with college professors to support the development of college readiness skills. AVID is based on five elements of learning: writing to learn and to show your knowledge, inquiry as a way to deepen understanding, collaboration skills, organizational strategies, and critical reading skills. During the AVID elective class, students will practice college readiness skills, receive direct instruction about the types of colleges and universities, learn about college eligibility, and develop collaborative skills through community-building activities and AVID tutorials.

The AVID Parents, GUARDIANS, AND CAREGIVERS

AVID parents, guardians, and other adult caregivers provide emotional, philosophical, and academic support to their children by showing interest in their schoolwork, providing them with a time and a place to study, and encouraging them to complete schoolwork regularly. AVID families also advise and assist their children in developing into responsible decision-makers. When possible, they attend AVID activities, meetings, and family workshops.

Other AVID Websites