TJ’s AVID program creates community, family, academic success.
AVID Teacher Kim Holtmann leads a group discussion. photo by Kevin Fleming
Over the years, Thomas Jefferson has become one of the top high schools in all of Denver Public Schools. A major contributing factor to this is their advanced prep classes, such as the AVID program, which has proved to be very successful for their students who plan to continue their academic career through college.
AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a college prep class that teaches students skills needed to be successful in honors and AP classes in high school, and ultimately college. AVID is designed to teach kids strategies that they can use at their current level of education, as well as in their future.
“It helps me to get on track and stay focused in all of my classes,” said Sophomore Kevin Kumar.
At TJ, AVID directors Aimee Witulski and Kim Holtmann are determined to motivate their students to excel to their highest potential. “We help them learn organization, note taking and study skills. The kids also participate in tutorials to promote higher level thinking,” said Witulski.
Becoming an AVID director is not an easy task. “We are required to go through a very extensive program to become qualified for AVID. We take all aspects of AVID seriously, but still provide and maintain a fun and interactive atmosphere,” said Holtmann.
While in AVID, students participate in different activities that help them to improve on all skills necessary to achieve in school. “We bring guest speakers from a variety of careers in so the kids can get exposure to the multiple options they have after high school,” said Witulski.
Recently, Kelly Ford from the KYGO morning show attended an AVID class and spoke to the students about the recent election. “The following day, after Kelly visited us, their election discussion was aired, and the AVID Western Division Office heard it and asked us to write an article on the experience,” said Witulski.
Another strategy used in AVID is peer tutoring. “Every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, I go in and tutor TJ students in any subject they need help in. It’s a very rewarding experience to know that I’m making a difference,” said Junior Rachel Wilson.
As a pair, Witulski and Holtmann create an environment that students can look forward to. “We work on creating a sense of family and support for students who want to go to college,” said Holtmann.
Many of the students who are a part of the TJ AVID program are continuing on from their previous middle school’s AVID program. “Many of our students already know what AVID is like because of their middle school experience with the program. We also take students that are recommended by teachers, anyone in X or AP classes that need support, or students who are interested in improving their academic skills,” said Holtmann.
AVID was created in 1980 by Mary Catherina Swanson at Clairemont High School in San Diego, California. The program began as an elective class taken during the regular school day, but has evolved into a 4th-12th grade system. AVID began at only one high school consisting of 32 students, and has now been integrated into 4,369 schools as of 2010.
Students who currently are a part of AVID frequently have positive feedback about the program. “It’s one of the coolest programs at TJ in my opinion. I look forward to going every single day,” said Sophomore Alex Carter.
Being accepted into the AVID program involves filling out the application and then participating in a follow up interview. If anyone is interested in applying, please see Mrs. Holtmann, Ms. Witulski, or Ms. Stone for more information.
