In a world where hard work being rewarded isn’t just a pipe dream…
by Asia Dorsey photo by Kevin Fleming 
On October 1st Avid students celebrated their six weeks of success with a party: a pool Party!
Sophomore Jackie Lovato recalls, “ The party was to congratulate us for what we accomplished. It made us feels like it was a job well done.” What’s better as a pat on the back than a hot dog , cookies and a drink? The atmosphere at the TJ pool was festive and inviting. Lovato explains, “ All the different classes brought in different things like drinks, buns, hotdogs, and sweets. The party was a collaborative effort.”
There was music blaring in the background, food cooking on a grill, semi- amazing board divers, and of course many wet and smiling party-goers enjoying themselves. Aimee Witulski one of the Avid teachers (and lifeguard of the day), revealed that AVID itself was an acronym that stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination. “In AVID students work on study skills, time management, and higher level thinking,“ said Witulski. “Part of the program is celebrating success and building relationships. Today we are celebrating the end of the six weeks and building relationships between the different grade levels and classes," she added.
AVID student and Junior Drew Mills, explained, “Advancement via individual determination means learning your way, and learning how to be a better student.” “We work very hard,” explained Freshman Kelcimond Hunter. “It just helps to make all the stuff we do more worthwhile.” AVID is a voluntary program for students with GPAs from 2.0 to 3.0 who are taking X classes or could be with a little support. It also gives them skills to prepare for college. To join an AVID class, you may have to make arrangements with your counselor.
