Advancement Via Individual Determination, or AVID, is an elective college-preparatory class that prepares students for success in high school and the opportunity to attend a four-year college upon their high school graduation.

AVID uses proven methodologies and best practices to improve learning outcomes for all students. The goal of AVID is to establish a college-going culture that increases the number of students who enroll and succeed in higher education and their lives.

The elective class is the core of AVID at Jefferson. AVID elective students are placed on the college track and are required to enroll in academically rigorous classes, such as Honors. AVID students are taught organizational and critical thinking skills, learn to ask probing questions, receive academic help from peers and college tutors and participate in enrichment and motivational activities to make their college dreams a reality.

A typical Thomas Jefferson AVID student has the desire to go to college and is capable of completing rigorous curriculum but needs support. Jefferson AVID population includes both A students and students who generally receive B’s and C’s. We encourage all students, whether or not their parents have gone to college, to join the AVID program.

AVID classes are engaging places. Students participate in Socratic seminars, where they employ their listening, critical thinking and discussion skills as they grapple with relevant topics. Students learn and practice study skills, organizational skills and taking great notes. In tutorials, students work together in small groups under the direction of a college tutor to help one another problem-solve questions and points of confusion. Field trips to local colleges, guest speakers from various occupations and team-building are just a few of the experiences and opportunities afforded our AVID students at TJ.