avid logo - avid for possibility

AVID provides students with the tools to be successful in school and in life.

Many students face tough challenges on the road to graduation, but AVID helps them rise above them. Nationwide, students in the AVID program consistently beat national averages for college and career readiness. Today, more than two million students across 8,000+ schools benefit from this proven approach.

Here in Aurora Public Schools, we partner with AVID at East Middle School, Mrachek Middle School, North Middle School, and Vista Peak Preparatory . Through specialized teacher training, strong classroom resources, and hands-on mentoring, AVID gives our students the tools and confidence they need to succeed— both in school and in life after graduation.

WHAT IS AVID?

AVID is more than just an elective class—it is a supportive community of learners that helps students reach their highest goals and dreams. Designed for students who show academic potential and the personal drive to succeed, AVID gives them the exact tools, habits, and confidence needed to thrive in middle school, high school, and beyond.

Through AVID, students master essential skills like:

  • Advanced Study Techniques: Organization, focused note-taking, and time management.

  • Critical Thinking: Deep questioning, collaboration, and problem-solving.

  • Future Preparation: Career exploration, college readiness, and real-world leadership skills.

AVID meets students where they are and gives them the structure and encouragement they need to prepare for college, career, and success in a global world.

What is the AVID Elective?

The AVID Elective is a 6th–12th grade course designed for students with the drive and determination to challenge themselves. Instead of just teaching subjects, AVID teaches students how to learn. It provides the structure, encouragement, and study habits students need to handle advanced coursework in high school and prepare for college and future careers.

What Students Learn & Practice:

  • Organization & Time Management: Keeping track of assignments, using daily agendas, and managing stress.

  • Effective Study Habits: Focused note-taking, test-prep strategies, and active reading skills.

  • Critical Thinking & Teamwork: Learning how to ask deeper questions, lead group discussions, and solve problems with peers.

  • Goal Setting & Leadership: Taking ownership of their grades, building strong character, and tracking their own academic growth.

The Foundation: WICOR Strategies In the AVID classroom, learning centers around five core pillars:

  • W – Writing: Taking organized notes, writing summaries, and reflecting on progress.

  • I – Inquiry: Learning how to ask high-level questions to deepen understanding during class and group tutorials.

  • C – Collaboration: Working in small groups, participating in formal class debates, and supporting classmates.

  • O – Organization: Keeping tidy binders, planning ahead with agendas, and staying on top of deadlines.

  • R – Reading: Learning how to analyze complex texts, mark key information, and understand difficult material.

Who is a Good Candidate for AVID? AVID is ideal for students who have academic potential and—most importantly—the personal motivation to work hard, ask questions, and push themselves toward their full potential.

What AVID ISN’T…

It is not a study hall; it is not a remedial program.

Quotes from former APS AVID students:

“AVID has given me an extra support system and has also given me ways to improve in my study skills and other areas that I wasn’t as strong in at the end of last year. It has also helped me feel more confident. I will never forget the projects and presentations we did in class and how they helped me to become a stronger student.”

“I learned a lot of skills in AVID that helped me learn how to be a successful student that I didn’t learn anywhere else!”

“AVID has helped give me an extra push in my classes. It also helped me with my confidence and helped me learn how to manage my stress.”

“AVID has given me strength to achieve all of my goals. It has also helped me learn the importance of advocating for myself.”

To learn more about what AVID is, please visit the AVID website.