Advancement via Individual Determination

Introduction

Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) helps students in grades K-12 get ready for college and careers. The program builds the skills students need to succeed in challenging classes and beyond.

Our Mission

The mission of AVID is to close the opportunity gap by preparing all students for college readiness and success in a global society.

What Students Gain

• Success in challenging classes
• Involvement in school activities
• Better preparation for four-year colleges
• Skills to become active members of their communities

Our Goals in Columbia Public Schools

• Raise expectations for students who want to go to college and are willing to work hard
• Enroll middle and high school students in challenging courses
• Give students the teaching and support they need to succeed
• Teach students the skills they need for college
• Make sure all students graduate ready for college and careers

The AVID Elective

The AVID Elective is for students in the "academic middle"—students who want to go to college and are willing to work hard. These students can handle challenging classes but need extra support to succeed. Watch a brief video overview of the program.

How Students Learn: WICOR

AVID uses a teaching method called WICOR, which stands for Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, and Reading. These five areas help students build strong study habits.

Where AVID is Offered

In Columbia, AVID is offered at all seven middle schools and our three comprehensive high schools. Students apply and are selected to join the program. In the AVID Elective, students learn how to stay organized and study, practice critical thinking, ask good questions, get help from classmates and college tutors, and take part in activities that make college feel possible. AVID students visit college campuses several times each year to explore different schools and think about what they want from their own college experience.

AVID is also at Alpha Hart Lewis Elementary. Learn more about AVID Elementary.

AVID Nationwide and Around the World

AVID is in more than 7,000 schools across 47 states, plus schools in Canada and Australia. The program reaches over 2 million students in grades K-12 and 62 colleges and universities. AVID can also be found in DoDEA schools across the globe.