AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a secondary elective class designed for all students, but most especially the least-served students who are "in the middle." Each week, students enrolled in the program receive two hours of instruction, two hours in tutor-led study groups, and one hour in motivational activities and academic survival skills. The goal of AVID is to provide students with high expectations, encouragement, day-to-day help, and a vision of college as an attainable goal.

The Puyallup School District supports the AVID program in 8th grade through 12th grade. The AVID program specifically targets students with GPAs from 2.0 to 3.5; average-to-high test scores; and, of course, those who have desire and determination. Preferred requirements for students interested in AVID:

• First generation in their family to attend college
• Historically "least served" in four-year colleges/universities
• Low income

Misson

The mission of AVID is to ensure that all students and most especially the least-served students who are "in the middle":

• Will succeed in rigorous curriculum.
• Will complete a rigorous college preparatory path.
• Will enter mainstream activities of the school.
• Will increase their enrollment in four-year colleges.
• Will become educated and responsible participants and leaders in a democratic society.

AVID'S systemic approach is designed to support students and educators as they increase school wide and district wide learning and performance.

Frequently asked questions

1. How are AVID students selected to be a part of the program?
   They apply and go through an interview process.
   
   
2. What happens to students who are not selected for the program?
   Students who are not selected for the AVID Program may be placed on a waiting list for further consideration in the following year.
   
   
3. What kinds of things go on in the AVID class?
   Students work to improve organization, collaboration, inquiry and communication skills. Throughout, students focus on goal setting and college culture as a way to prepare for post-secondary schooling. Also, students get help from tutors and other students through a problem-solving process called "Tutorial."
   
   
4. What is the success rate of AVID students?
   Over 90 percent of AVID students who stay in the program until the end of 12th grade go on to a four year college.
   
   
5. How many students are currently in the AVID program?
   We recently expanded in the middle schools. Approximately 25 percent of our middle school kids are in the AVID program that starts as early as fourth grade.
   
   
6. Are AVID students required to do more work than the average student?
   Yes, they are required to do more work than the average student. AVID students are required to take Cornell notes for their academic classes as well as stay organized in planning. Also, students give up an elective to take AVID (which counts as an elective).
   
   There is additional homework from the AVID class in the form of projects and assignments. AVID students are expected to take the most rigorous courses possible to be best prepared for college. That means a full college preparation load throughout to be high school that included honors and Advanced Placement classes.
   
   

Do AVID teachers receive special training?
AVID elective teachers, site team members, counselors and principals have been trained in the use of AVID techniques. AVID staff development trainings have taken place during AVID Summer Institutes over the last four years in San Diego and Chicago. Those techniques are being used throughout each of the schools. Staff members are charged to supplement regular curriculum with AVID teaching to make AVID school wide

For questions and information please contact your AVID coordinator and instructors

Kalles Junior High
Grades 7-9
AVID Coordinator: Jamie Lee
AVID Elective Teacher for 9th Grade: Amy Looker
(253) 841-8729