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| AVID Students at J. Frank Dobie Middle School hosted our visit. |
This week, I had the opportunity to accompany TEA Commissioner Michael Williams on a tour of the AVID Program at J. Frank Dobie College Prep Academy. AVID stands for Advancement Via Determination, and one of the nation’s strongest programs is right here in AISD at Dobie. AVID’s Executive Director, Jim Nelson, hosted the tour to show us how the program helps prepare students for success in AISD, in college, and in whatever careers they choose.
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| AVID students asked questions and expressed their support for the program. |
Last year, Dobie earned the recognition of being named a national AVID demonstration site, one of only two in central Texas.
Some 250 Dobie students take AVID as an elective class that meets five times each week during school hours. Students develop such skills as focused note- taking, setting academic goals, and maintaining learning logs to track their progress. Students also participate in community service activities, as well as field trips to college campuses and area employers. The students we met were passionate about the program and about the AVID teachers and tutors that support and encourage them.
Some 250 Dobie students take AVID as an elective class that meets five times each week during school hours. Students develop such skills as focused note- taking, setting academic goals, and maintaining learning logs to track their progress. Students also participate in community service activities, as well as field trips to college campuses and area employers. The students we met were passionate about the program and about the AVID teachers and tutors that support and encourage them.
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| A student leads the discussion, while tutors offer support. |
The students we met were so impressive, and so enthusiastic about their futures. Many have already decided which college they want to attend. This is a program that is really making a difference in students’ lives, and it is helping our district achieve all four of these goals identified in our five-year Strategic Plan:
- All students will perform at or above grade level.
- Achievement gaps among all student groups will be eliminated.
- All students will graduate ready for college, career and life in a globally competitive economy.
- All schools will meet or exceed state accountability standards, and the district will meet federal standards and exceed state standards.
Thanks to Dobie Principal Carol Chapman, AVID Director Christy Barrett, and the entire AVID staff at Dobie for hosting the tour. We appreciate you!
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| Our student guide, Lucero Rodriguez, escorted Commissioner Williams and me during the tour. |