Graduating AVID students have much to be proud of.
TJ's first Avid class set for graduation. Artwork by Anna Becker
On Senior Awards night, in front of proud parents and seniors alike, TJ Math Teacher Aimee Witulski stood at the podium to announce her selection for outstanding senior from her AVID class. Before her speech began, she proudly announced that this was the first AVID class graduating from Thomas Jefferson High School, and she was answered back by elated applause.
The thirteen seniors in Witulski’s AVID class worked extremely hard this year, visiting college campuses, writing and re-writing college essays, and worked on college applications and scholarships, all united in one goal: a brighter future. Along with college preparation, the students studied hard for AP (Advanced Placement) exams as well as everyday class studies.
For students within this AVID class, all of the feedback they have given and the words they have said have all been nothing but positive praise for the program. According to 2010 graduate Demetrius Allen, it will help him throughout his future. “Being in AVID for four years has improved my time management skills and organization as a student,” he said. Allen has not just been a part of this TJ history making AVID class, but he also has received Witulski’s Outstanding Senior Award. “Winning the Outstanding Senior was the highlight of my year. I never could have done it without the guidance of Ms. Witulski.”
As for all of the other seniors within this class, they are all very excited to be a part of this changing moment at TJ. Other seniors who have taken part in this class for four years include: Lemlem Ahmed, Andrew Brown, Jennifer Brown, Shanae Brown, Michael Craig, Conner Kleberger, Tino Lamorie, Lisa Lerner, Keirra Levier, Ashanee Moore, Shane Oliver, and Anthony Sanchez-Guevara. “I am surprised at how much they have grown,” said Witulski. “They were willing to take on many challenges and really supported each other.” Like a proud parent, Witulski beamed when she announced that all of her seniors had applied to four-year schools and were going to continue their educations into college. “They managed to not cave in to senioritis,” Witulski said jokingly.
Witulski said she will always treasure her students and is looking forward to seeing them walk across the stage on graduation day. “It’s our first graduating AVID class and they have initiated some great traditions,” said Witulski, who fondly remembers the many celebrations, pool parties, games of kick ball, and group movies that they have all shared.
