Our Program Explained...
Dear Parents,
Current students in grades 6 and 7 who have a GPA between 2.0 and 3.5 and average to high standardized test scores are being considered as potential candidates for the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program at Colina Middle School for their grades 7 and 8 school year at Colina. AVID, an elective class programmed into the regular schedule, is a stepping-stone to prepare students to become competitive for four-year colleges and universities, and provide support for academic courses, including honors and AP classes. Only students who have received written invitations to apply will be considered for AVID; all invitations have been issued.
AVID is looking for the student with the individual determination to work for his or her own success. This is a student willing to commit to at least two hours of homework/studying if needed each evening.
First year AVID includes the following:
1. Cornell Notes – students will work up to taking notes in at least three classes
2. Notebook organization, calendars, assignment records
3. Writing component, often in conjunction with school writing projects
4. Higher level questioning skills
5. Collaborative tutorial support
6. Vocabulary related to core subjects as well as SAT vocabulary
7. Study skills
8. Test taking strategies
9. Career and college exploration and related vocabulary
10. Socratic Seminars
11. Guest speakers from the business, professional, and educational community
In addition, AVID teachers communicate with parents and teachers of AVID student programs. Counselors will work on an in-depth four-year plan with each student.
This letter gives you a brief description of the AVID program. We cordially invite you and your son/daughter to attend a more detailed informational meeting on 2008-09 DATE/LOCATION TBA. The meeting will last approximately 30 minutes and will include an opportunity for questions to be answered. We are advocates for success in school and wish to assist you in working with your student. To apply for the AVID program, please ask your student to complete the application that he/she picked up last week and return it to the attendance window BY DATE TBA. A student interview will be scheduled after the application is received. If you have any questions regarding the program, please call counselor Ms. Fagan-Simpson at 805-495-7429 x1013.
