AVID FAQs
Hamilton High AVID FAQ's
Q: What is AVID?
A: AVID is an acronym for "Advancement Via Individual Determination." It is an elective class scheduled during the school day that helps students, who are academically in the MIDDLE, achieve college readiness. It is for students who want to attend a four-year college or university. AVID is a rigorous class with high expectations.
Q: How are students selected?
A: Students are recommended by their teachers or selected based on testing data and grades. Students who are interested must complete an application and a written interview. The AVID Site Team considers applicants based on grades, testing data, attendance, and discipline data. Students meeting the AVID requirements move on to a personal interview. Then the Site Team reviews each applicant's interview information before making a final decision.
Q: How are students supported?
A: AVID students are supported in many ways. The AVID teacher keeps track of students' grades and attendance in all of their classes. Students keep an AVID binder that provides the AVID teacher information about problem areas students may be having. The binder also provides insight as to how successfully students are applying the AVID strategies and tools in their academic classes. Another way AVID supports its students is through tutorials, which are college-style study groups, that are offered twice a week by trained college tutors. Additionally, the AVID Site Team meets bi-weekly to discuss any student issues and formulate a plan to help the student get back on track.
Q: What is the AVID Site Team?
A: The AVID Site Team is a group of teachers, counselors, and administrators whose purpose is to ensure the proper implementation of the AVID program as well as to assist the AVID coordinator in meeting the mission and goals of the AVID program.
Q: What are the requirements for a student to be considered for AVID?
A: AVID is not for everyone. Typical AVID students are generally students who are "in the middle" academically and capable of achieving at a higher level if provided the tools and support. These students have desire and determination, good attendance, minor or no office referrals, and meet one or more of these criteria: First to attend college in his/her family; historically underserved ethnicity in colleges or universities; low income, special circumstances.
Q: What are the expectations for AVID students?
A: Students in AVID are expected to:
- Demonstrate INDIVIDUAL Determination!
- Follow the District Dress Code and Student Code of Conduct.
- Maintain a grade of 75% or above in all of their classes during progress reports and report cards.
- Maintain enrollment in one or more advanced class (PAP/MAP/AP)
- Carry the AVID binder to every class and keep it organized with all required supplies.
- Take focused class notes in all core classes and in AVID and complete them daily as homework.
- Attend teacher’s tutorials any time grades fall below 75, especially in core classes.
- Turn in all assignments on time in all of their classes.
- Maintain good citizenship and attendance.
- Go to all classes prepared with required materials, supplies, and assignments.