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Parkrose students, superintendent discuss AVID, College Possible and college access
Summary
Student representatives told the Parkrose School District 3 board that AVID helped with college readiness and navigation; the superintendent discussed costs, College Possible partnership options and limits on district funding.
Student representatives told the Parkrose School District 3 Board of Education that AVID gave them academic structure and mentorship that many said they miss in college, and the superintendent said the district is exploring a limited College Possible partnership to expand postsecondary support.
The student panel detailed how AVID classroom practices — organization, networking and sustained mentorship — helped with college applications, internships and scholarships. One student said, “I joined AVID because my brother, Malachi, was there… My mom saw how [it] helped my siblings,” and another warned, “you’re really gonna miss the guidance” provided in high school when they reached college.
Superintendent (Parkrose School District 3) told the board the district pays about $20,000 a year for AVID’s consultative services and that AVID classes now reach about 40% of the high school student body — roughly 400 of about 1,000 students. He said College Possible, a nonprofit that provides mentorship and post‑enrollment support, previously worked with the district and could serve up to about 20 students for roughly $10,000, though program design has changed and services may be more regionally pooled than school‑based.
Board members and students discussed gaps in college transition supports for first‑generation students and those not enrolled in AVID. A graduate who returned to the panel said AVID’s routines — planners, on‑track grading and application lists — directly supported scholarship applications and reduced financial barriers to college.
The superintendent said he will meet again with College Possible and Portland State University representatives to explore grant opportunities and possible models for scaling support, but he cautioned the board that funds are constrained and any new partnership would need to fit the district’s budget priorities. He said, “they can figure out a way,” but added decisions will depend on available funding and grant opportunities.
Students recommended clearer onboarding for new student board representatives and said board members’ practice of pausing for student input helped make the meetings welcoming. The panel also urged the district to preserve AVID’s mentorship elements when considering program adjustments.
The conversation will continue; the superintendent said he will report back after meetings with College Possible and potential grant partners.
