AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination)

Durham Public Schools is leading the state in an effort to ensure that students are prepared to attend college.  Some 2700 students participate in the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program.  Originally implemented in Durham’s middle and high schools, AVID is expanding to elementary schools. 

AVID was started at a California school in 1980.  In 1992 AVID Center was established as a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization and the program has evolved into a fifth- through 12th-grade system that successfully prepares students in the academic middle for four-year college eligibility. Beginning with one high school and 32 students, the AVID system is now anticipating being in place in more than 4,300 schools  by 2010.

Middle and High Schools

In middle and high schools, AVID is an elective class offered to students who plan to attend a four-year college or university but need additional assistance to get there. The curriculum includes writing, inquiry, collaboration, reading, note-taking, study skills, career and college research, and preparation for standardized tests. Trained tutors also work with students during AVID to assist students in their academic classes; this support enables students to enroll in the most rigorous courses in the school. AVID students also take field trips to college campuses and cultural events such as the theater or museums.

Elementary Schools

In elementary school AVID, entire classrooms develop study, organizational, and writing skills as they learn about career and college options. These students are fully prepared for middle school and may choose to continue in the AVID program there.

Participating Schools

Currently, Durham Public Schools boasts 19 AVID Programs in the following schools:

Elementary:

• Bethesda
• Eastway
• Glenn
• Oak Grove
• W.G. Pearson
• Y.E. Smith

Middle:

• Carrington
• Chewning
• Githens
• Lowe's Grove
• Neal
• W.G. Pearson 
• Rogers-Herr
• Shepard 

High:

• Hillside
• Northern
• Early College
• Riverside
• Southern

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are AVID students?
AVID students must have a GPA of 2.0-3.5, IIIs or IVs on the EOGs, and an acceptable behavior and attendance record. Often, AVID students are first generation college students from under-represented populations on college campuses. Above all, AVID students have a desire and determination to challenge themselves academically and attend a four-year college or university.

How does my student enter the AVID program?
In the spring of each year, AVID students submit an application and are interviewed to enter the program. Informational sessions are held in January for the following school year as a kick-off to the application process.

How do I know AVID works?
AVID has been in existence for 27 years nationally and 5 years locally. The curriculum is research-based, and data is kept on each school site to ensure high quality programs. Durham Public Schools is proud to boast a 100% college admissions and enrollment rate among its AVID graduates.

How can I learn more?
AVID’s national website is www.avidonline.org.
You can also contact Mary Gray Leonard, AVID District Coordinator, at (919) 560-3592 or by e-mail at MaryGray.Leonard@dpsnc.net.