Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) K-12 - Saddleback Valley Unified School District

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.

AVID 7th and 8th Grade Registration Information for 2021-22

AVID 9th - 12th Grade Registration Information for 2021-22

Click Here to see ETHS's AVID February Newsletter!

What is AVID?

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

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

SVUSD AVID Schools

AVID Elementary Schools

Cielo Vista Elementary
Gates Elementary
Glen Yermo Elementary
Linda Vista Elementary
Melinda Heights
Olivewood 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
Trabuco Hills High School