Advancement Via Individual Determination

Advancement via Individual Determination (AVID) is a K-12 college readiness system that places students — particularly those from groups traditionally underrepresented in higher education —  on the college track. As a key strategy in closing the opportunity gap, AVID students are held accountable to the highest standards with academic and social support to reach their full academic potential.

AVID prepares students for postsecondary success by equipping them with 21st Century skills, academic norms and college knowledge so they can gain confidence in their abilities and feel empowered to realize their dreams and take ownership of their education.

How AVID works

AVID students learn organizational and study skills, develop critical thinking, learn to ask probing questions, receive academic help from peers and college tutors, and participate in enrichment and motivational activities to make their college dreams a reality.

At the high school and middle school levels, AVID students are required to enroll in their high school’s most challenging courses — such as Advanced Placement (AP) and Concurrent Enrollment. In addition, students take the AVID Elective class, which provides them with structured tutorials around group collaboration. This immersive strategy leads to a positive, college-going culture in the classroom.

What the AVID elective is

  • AVID is for motivated students who have the potential for honors, advanced, Pre-AP®, and AP® work in school but need support paired with the rigor.

  • AVID combines rigor with support that includes each student’s own individual determination and the support of teachers, other AVID students, family members, the AVID teacher(s), and college tutors.

  • Students in AVID must maintain a 2.0 GPA or higher throughout the school year.

What is the AVID criteria?

Students are individually assessed and accepted by their application and interview with the school AVID team. In addition to being individually motivated and maintaining a 2.0 GPA or higher throughout the school year, additional factors that are considered for acceptance include:

  • Comes from a low-income or single-parent family. 

  • Would be first in their family to attend college. 

  • Is proficient or close to proficient on state tests. 

  • Is able to complete four-year university entrance requirements prior to graduation. 

  • Is a hard worker, has a positive attitude, and is collaborative in nature. 

  • Is from a racial, cultural, or economic group historically underrepresented in colleges and universities. 

  • Has potential, but may also have special circumstances that could be obstacles to achievement.

AVID Celebrations

Amaya Martinez, a DPS student, receiving an award for being a Daniels Fund Scholar. Amaya is posing with her parents from the stands behind the first base dugout at Coors Field.

Amaya Martinez was awarded a Daniels Fund Scholar recipient last week

AVID students demonstrate a willingness to work hard and desire to succeed in college. AVID helps get them there.

AVID National Spotlight flyer

Student Thoughts on AVID

Middle and High School:

Elementary

AVID is such a wonderful program. I've been in this organization since 7th grade, and most certainly I have learned and progressed a lot. The students I've met are all such hardworking individuals who value education and academic success. All three of my AVID instructors I've been taught by are beyond incredible. Their intellectual abilities are prestige and I can confidently say, I have picked up characteristics from them.

AVID Student  

   2023