History
Advancement Via Individual Determination in Columbia Public Schools
Columbia Public Schools (CPS) started using the AVID College Readiness System in 2013-2014. Today, all seven middle schools and Battle High School, Hickman High School, and Rock Bridge High School offer AVID Elective courses and use AVID strategies throughout their buildings.
In 2018, the Columbia Area Career Center started training its teachers in AVID methods. Career Center teachers have learned how to use AVID strategies in their career-focused classes to help students stay engaged, handle challenging work, and get ready for college and careers.
In 2019, Alpha Hart Lewis became our first AVID Elementary school. Starting in kindergarten, students learn study habits and develop strong thinking skills, setting them up for success in later grades.
Advancement Via Individual Determination Elementary at Alpha Hart Lewis
At Alpha Hart Lewis, elementary students build the learning habits they'll need in middle school, high school, and college, all in age-appropriate ways. Students learn how to stay organized, study, communicate, and speak up for themselves. They take structured notes and ask and answer high-level questions.
The school has a strong college-going culture. College pennants and banners cover the walls, and teachers share their own college stories. This helps students see college and careers as real possibilities. Teachers give students the foundation they need for future success. AVID Elementary closes the opportunity gap before it begins.
Site Teams
Each AVID school has an AVID Site Team, a group of teachers, counselors, and administrators who lead AVID in their building. These teams meet regularly to support AVID Elective teachers and help all teachers use AVID strategies.
How to Apply
Students who want to become AVID Scholars should contact their building's AVID Site Coordinator. Eighth graders interested in AVID for high school should contact the Site Coordinator at the high school they will attend. Contact information is on the Contact Us page.
The application includes a written application and an interview. The Site Team makes final selections. Recruiting and applications usually start in January for the next school year.
Important: Being accepted to AVID is specific to each school. If a student transfers to a different Columbia Public Schools building, they must contact that building's Site Coordinator about AVID acceptance.
- Priority Deadline: Friday, February 6, 2026
- Early Submission Deadline: Friday, February 6, 2026
- Regular Submission Deadline: Friday, March 20, 2026