The Advancement Via Individual Determination Logo is a bold display of AVID’s commitment to student success. Graphic courtesy of Johnston County Public Schools.

The AVID program at San Luis Obispo High School is helping students turn high school challenges into college and career opportunities. AVID Coordinator Kyle Harmon, AVID teacher Daniel Monroe, and AVID freshman Dominic Estrada share how the program equips students with the confidence, skills, and resources to succeed beyond the classroom.

Expressions:  How would you describe the purpose of AVID to someone who has never heard of it?

AVID Coordinator Kyle Harmon:  AVID is a program designed to help students reach their academic and personal potential. We focus on awareness of post-high school educational options in addition to making sure students get the most growth out of their high school experience. The majority of our students have a goal of being the first in their family to attend or graduate from a four year university. During senior year, we navigate the complicated world of college applications, financial aid, scholarships, and college life. 

Expressions: Why is AVID important for preparing students for college?

AVID teacher Daniel Monroe:  Most people will say AVID provides students with the resources and tools to help them prepare for college, which is 100% true. However, I believe the biggest impact AVID has on students is giving them the confidence and belief that college is not only a realistic goal, but a reality. Many students who enter the AVID program see college as a dream; when they leave the program, they realize it is something that they have achieved. 

Expressions:  How does AVID help students explore different college and career options?

Freshman Dominic Estrada: I think AVID has really prepared me for my future goals because it teaches you how to pass those challenging classes and how to ask for help when you need it. It’s also opened up a lot of opportunities, like programs that can help pay for college or support your career plans. Overall, it just makes you feel more ready and confident about what’s coming next.

Monroe: Junior year is focused heavily on college and career exploration. Our trimester two final revolves around a large college research project and in trimester three, we spend time looking at careers beyond high school. Students will also do a “dorm room” project where they create their own college dorm room. Additionally, we start preparing important documents they will need for senior year, which include brag sheets, letters of recommendation, Common App, EOP essay response practice, and scholarship interview practice. 

Expressions: How have you seen AVID change students’ academic or personal lives?

Harmon: I have seen AVID and our support truly change students’ lives and their entire families’ trajectory. We have AVID alumni who are aerospace engineers, nurses, future lawyers, etc. Several students have stated that without the AVID program, they not only would not have attended a four year degree, but they likely would have dropped out of high school. Sometimes our AVID students just need a push from someone who has gone through the same obstacles and challenges that they are currently going through. In AVID, students support one another like they would a brother or sister, and I believe it is that family element that makes AVID on our campus so amazing and unique. 

Monroe: Academically, I believe AVID motivates students because it gives them something to strive for, which is performing well in the classroom to give them as many options as possible beyond high school. Personally, I believe AVID gives students belief and confidence, not just in school but to carry over in other aspects or areas of their lives as well. 

Expressions: What study skills or habits have you learned in AVID that you now use every day?

Estrada: Some of the most valuable study skills I’ve learned from AVID are strong time-management habits and the ability to stay organized with my schoolwork. Another major skill I’ve gained is confidence, especially when it comes to talking to new people and forming connections with classmates I might not have approached before. AVID has really helped me step out of my comfort zone in a positive way.

  AVID empowers students to turn their dreams into reality by giving them the tools they need to reach their goals. It gives students the confidence to challenge themselves, explore new opportunities, and believe in the future they are working towards.