Early one September in the new school year, the ninth-grade AVID classes at Neshaminy HS visited Harry E. Franks Stadium to think ahead to the end of their senior year — and about what they might accomplish to reach their dreams and goals at Neshaminy HS when they walk across that field one last time during their Commencement Ceremony.
Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is a global non-profit organizationthat has created a program to provide students with tools and strategies for academic and social success in school, higher education and beyond. According to the organization, AVID is more than just a program, however. “At its heart, AVID is a philosophy: Hold students accountable to the highest standards, provide academic and social support, and they will rise to the challenge.”
At Neshaminy, AVID has expanded at the high school level with classes in two grades (9 & 10) and will eventually cover all grades. Students who will benefit from the program are identified and encouraged to sign up (though any student can sign up if they are interested). The program also has classes in the middle schools, and AVID principles are taught in the elementary schools as well.