Modesto High School's Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program has garnered national attention for its dedication to preparing students for the challenges of college and career. This week, MHS received a prestigious four-year certification, allowing the campus to retain its status as a National AVID Demonstration School.
The AVID program at Modesto High School is all-inclusive, ensuring all students have equitable access to the resources and support they need to excel. Emphasizing essential skills such as organization, time management, and effective note-taking, the program prepares students for a seamless transition to higher education and the workforce .
The city's oldest high school successfully completed the rigorous revalidation process on Tuesday, solidifying its position as an exemplary institution in fostering academic excellence.
Modesto High School's AVID journey began in 2002 with 36 students and one elective teacher. Since then, the program has flourished, now encompassing 16 AVID elective sections including the specialized AVID Scholar Athletes program. These sections provide personalized support and guidance to students, empowering them with the essential skills and knowledge needed for success after high school.
Modesto High School is privileged to count two former AVID graduates among its teaching staff, a testament to the program's enduring impact on its alumni. Principal Phuc Pham-Goulart expressed pride in the program's positive influence on students, emphasizing its role in fostering academic excellence, critical thinking, and unwavering determination.
"We are proud of the positive impact it has had on our students and the opportunities it opens for their future," she added.
Modesto High's AVID coordinator, Sue Blickenstaff, attributes the program's success to the collective efforts of students, faculty, and staff, highlighting their shared commitment to working through challenges and striving for excellence.
“This really is a testament to our students and staff for their ability to persevere and do the work,” said Blickenstaff. “As long as we’re all rowing in the same direction, we’re able to overcome any obstacles that appear in our path.”
This dedication has not gone unnoticed, with Modesto High School first earning recognition as a nationwide AVID Demonstration School in 2018. AVID National Demonstration Schools are exemplary models of the AVID College Readiness System. Demonstration Schools undergo a rigorous validation process and are required to be revalidated every few years to ensure high levels of implementation, with quality and fidelity to AVID strategies schoolwide. Such designation places Modesto High among the top 2% of all AVID schools in the United States.
During the revalidation process, Modesto High was commended for its commitment to the program's principles and its remarkable success in implementing AVID practices schoolwide.
As MHS continues its journey of academic excellence, the AVID program remains a cornerstone of its mission, providing students with the skills, support, and determination needed to realize their full potential and pursue their dreams.
