AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is an academic elective that prepares students for college and career readiness through rigorous writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization, and reading (W.I.C.O.R) strategies. The AVID System is designed to increase school-wide learning and performance for students in grades k-12 and higher education. The purpose of the AVID System is to restructure the teaching methods of an entire school and to open access to the curricula that will ensure four-year college eligibility for all students.
Wolf Lake Middle School is a proud "Highly Certified" AVID site location in Apopka, Florida. AVID at Wolf Lake Middle School communicates high expectations and high achievement; and embodies the nurturing spirit of our teachers while encompassing a data driven, systematic approach to ensure our students succeed. The program targets students who are in the academic middle. Students with the individual motivation, the desire to go to college and the willingness to work hard are set on a path of rigorous coursework and the support to help reach their full potential. AVID students enroll in rigorous coursework, learn organizational and study habits while developing and deepening critical thinking skills. Students will participate in enrichment activities both inside and outside of the classroom. Below are a few statistics about the AVID Program offered at Wolf Lake Middle School:
v Nearly 200 AVID students are enrolled in the AVID Program at WLMS
v All students enrolled in the program are enrolled in at least one higher level advanced or high school level course
v According to the AVID Center in California, we are considered a "Highly Certified" site.
v 100% of AVID 8th grade students are enrolled into AP or Honors level courses by 9th Grade.
v The AVID Site Team at WLMS consists of 20 instructional staff members including the principal, assistant principal of instruction, curriculum resource teacher, AVID site coordinator, AVID elective teachers, tutors, parents, students, and instructional staff
v The AVID Program at WLMS has been recognized in the Apopka Chief by School Board Member, Christine Moore from Orange County Public Schools
v Field Trips will increase to 6 college campus visits for next year!
v Some AVID student recognition's include: Spreading the Dream Essay Contest winner, MLK Essay Contest winner, Student Leader at the AVID Summer Institute in Orlando, and leadership positions held in AVID Council
Who May Apply?
v Students with GPA 2.0-3.5. *GPAs of 3.5 will be approved on a case by case basis.
v Score a high level 2, 3, or 4 on FSA reading and math. *Scores of 4 or above will be approved on a case by case basis.
v No attendance or discipline problems
v Are willing to commit themselves to enriching study and organizational skills
v Are willing to commit to enrollment of at least one rigorous course per year
v Student with a desire to attend a four year college
v Must be a voluntary decision by the student, NOT the parent
v Must complete the AVID application process (if interested, ask your guidance counselor)
What are the AVID Requirements at WLMS?
v Must commit to a full year of enrollment in the AVID Program
v Participate in collaborative groups, tutorials, field trips, and motivational activities
v Maintain satisfactory citizenship and attendance in all classes
v Maintain the AVID binder with assignment/grade record sheets and daily Cornell notes in all classes
v Maintain GPA of 2.0 or higher.
v Take rigorous classes (Advanced, honors, or high school level courses)
What does the AVID elective class look like?
Mondays/Wednesdays:
! Writing for all classes and developing success strategies
! Developing strong communication skills (oral and written)
! Preparing for professional careers
! Developing reading skills
! Developing strong study skills and organizational habits
Tuesdays/Thursdays:
! Tutorial sessions with peer and college tutors
! Learning with college tutor
! Learning with peers/mentors
Fridays:
! Field trips, guest speakers, collaborative activities geared toward curriculum and college experiences.
! College Tours
! Interacting with guest speakers