School districts and school administrators from across the region were invited to come to Washington Jr. High School to learn more about the AVID program. The AVID program is hosting a number of showcasing events and Washington Jr. High School was chosen as one of the schools to showcase the program because of its success with the AVID. This is the second year Washington has been asked to host a showcase.

Around 40 guests attended the showcase at WJHS on Wednesday, Feb. 19. During their visit, guests go to observe an elective AVID class and tutorials in action, learn how Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, and Reading (WICOR) strategies are used in content area classes, gain insight from AVID site team and students, observe critical reading strategies, and heard firsthand how data is being used to improve student achievement.

Currently in the RIMSD#41, Edison Jr. High, Washington Jr. High, Rock Island High School, and Frances Willard Elementary School use the AVID program in their schools.

AVID (Advance Via Individual Determination) is a set of strategies used by educators to prepare students for college and career readiness. AVID students are enrolled in a school’s toughest classes, such as Advanced Placement, and attend an academic elective class -called AVID- taught within the school day by a trained AVID teacher. The three main components of the program are academic instruction, tutorial support, and motivational activities. Their self-images improve and they become academically successful leaders and role models for other students.