Saddleback Valley Unified School District

Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) K-12

AVID Logo

Advancement Via Individual Determination is an internationally-recognized system that helps students achieve their college dreams.

Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is a a four-year, academic elective program designed to prepare all students, especially those traditionally underrepresented, for college and careers.  AVID students are encouraged to seek their highest academic potential by setting challenging goals.  AVID students  develop critical thinking habits through the tutorial process.  Beyond the classroom, the students embark on motivational college field trips to expand their awareness of post-secondary options.  As the students reach the college admissions process, they receive assistance in preparing for standardized testing, personal essay writing, college applications, and scholarship opportunities.

What is AVID?

AVID stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination and is a college preparation program for students with the determination to achieve at high levels. The mission of AVID is to close the achievement gap by preparing all students for college readiness and success in a global society.

How Does AVID Work?

AVID is a college readiness system designed to increase the number of students who enroll and succeed in higher education and beyond. AVID transforms the instruction, systems, leadership and culture of an entire school by having students enroll in the AVID Elective class taught by AVID-trained teachers.

AVID motivates students and provides the skills and confidence for students to reach their goals. In the AVID elective course, students learn organizational and study skills, cultivate critical thinking skills, understand the importance of asking probing questions, get academic help from college students and peers using the tutorial method, and participate in enriching and encouraging activities that makes college attainable.

Almost all AVID students who participate for at least three years are accepted to college, with roughly three quarters getting into four-year universities.


AVID Essentials

  1. AVID Elective during the school day
  2. Voluntary participation by students and staff
  3. Enrolling in rigorous curriculum
  4. Instruction promoting organizational skills and academic self-management
  5. Curriculum with strong emphasis on writing and reading
  6. Instruction promoting inquiry, collaboration and critical thinking
  7. Use of trained tutors
  8. Committed school and district resources for program costs and certifications
  9. Collaboration of active interdisciplinary site team

SVUSD AVID Schools

AVID Elementary Schools

  • Cielo Vista Elementary
  • Gates Elementary
  • Glen Yermo Elementary
  • Linda Vista Elementary
  • Olivewood Elementary
  • Santiago Elementary
  • San Joaquin Elementary

AVID Intermediate Schools

  • La Paz Intermediate School
  • Los Alisos Intermediate School
  • Rancho Santa Margarita Intermediate School
  • Serrano Intermediate School

AVID High Schools

  • El Toro High School
  • Mission Viejo High School
  • Silverado High School