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AVID expands in Charles County, district ties program to strategic goals and college/career readiness
Summary
District AVID leaders described expanding AVID to elementary and more middle/high schools; presenters said AVID students show higher attendance and increased enrollment in rigorous courses, and the district will use AVID coaching tools and certification to measure implementation.
Kevin Lowes introduced an AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) update, saying the program helps students 'believe in themselves and advocate for their own learning.'
Teresa Peck, AVID lead for the district, said Charles County added AVID Elementary (first year at Indian Head Elementary) and continues to grow AVID Secondary in five middle schools and five high schools. She said the district is emphasizing alignment with the district strategic plan so AVID strategies are part of school improvement goals rather than an "extra" program.
Casey Clary, an AVID teacher, described Stoddard Middle School's eight‑year growth from one class to multiple grade‑level sections and said AVID students show higher attendance and greater enrollment in honors, AP, or career/technical courses. Clary highlighted school‑level strategies such as focus note‑taking, binder organization, and student ambassadors who help with recruiting and outreach.
Board members asked how schools adopt AVID, how it is funded and staffed, and how sites measure success. Presenters said principals request AVID and typically use Title I or community‑school funds to kickstart the program; implementation uses AVID's coaching tools (WICOR strategies) and certification levels that require schools to submit evidence showing teacher use of AVID strategies and student outcomes, including senior data collection for postsecondary tracking.
Presenters said recruitment is school‑based (teacher recommendations, assemblies, application and interview); seats in elective AVID classes are limited and schools develop local recruitment plans. Pilot feeder alignment (Indian Head → Glymont → Lackey) is underway so elementary AVID can feed the secondary pipeline.
