MONTEBELLO – With the theme of “Fulfilling College Dreams,” the Montebello Unified School District’s Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) college readiness system showcased its 15 years of success in Montebello with a special event on Monday, June 9.

“Our District implements AVID in all of our elementary and intermediate schools, as well as our three comprehensive high schools, because it is a systematic approach that works for and within our community,” said MUSD Board of Education President David Vela. “By investing in the students that have the desire, but are lacking in resources or support, we work to close the achievement gap and begin to see more of our students on track to college.”

The event featured a special guest appearance by Dr. Arturo Delgado, Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools, as well as a gallery walk exhibition of students’ work. Administrators, teachers, AVID Coordinators, AVID tutors and students attended the two-hour event, held at the Montebello Teachers Association Conference Center in Montebello.

The MUSD AVID system targets students in the academic middle who have the personal drive to achieve their dream of going to college, but are falling short in reaching their potential. By taking an AVID course, students learn organizational and study skills, get academic help from peers and college tutors and participate in enrichment and motivational activities that keep college an attainable goal. The curriculum is based on rigorous standards developed by middle and high school teachers in collaboration with college professors.

“This system really highlights the creative and effective ways in which MUSD remains committed to raising student achievement,” said Susanna Contreras Smith, Superintendent of Education. “We truly appreciate and thank each administrator and teacher involved in AVID, and congratulate each AVID student for their academic success this year.”

AVID’s mission is to close the achievement gap by preparing all students for college readiness and success in a global society. AVID is at work in over 4,000 schools in 45 states and 15 countries.

PHOTO CAPTION:
AVID18: From left to right, Adeline C. Canedo, MUSD AVID Director; Carmen Serret-Lopez, AVID Center Representative; Lani Cupchoy, MUSD Board Member; Dr.  Arturo Delgado, LA County of Education; and MUSD Superintendent of Education, Susanna Contreras-Smith pose for a photo opp at the MUSD AVID showcase on June 10.