AVID (Advancement via Individual Determination) in Englewood , NJ

 

AVID Englewood is affiliated with both regional and national support services for AVID implementation.

AVID began in Englewood at the Janis E. Dismus Middle School in September 2003.  The program covers grades six, seven and eight.  A full-time AVID teacher, Lamarr Thomas, guides the program and teachers the AVID classes.  Eighty-four students are enrolled in six sections.  Each of the students also takes a high level English, mathematics, science, social studies or history, and Spanish class in addition to a physical education class. 

AVID students have an academic profile that included grade performance in the C- to B range last year, achievement test data that suggested grade level skills in reading and mathematics, support from at least one teacher who felt the student could achieve much more, and commitment from the student to take a rigorous academic schedule and the AVID class.

The AVID students learn the skills common to high academic achievers.  The AVID teacher provides instruction in note taking techniques (Cornell notes), class preparation strategies, test preparation tactics, academic assertive behaviors, and use of time management tools.  Twice a week students engage in interactive tutorials with college students. 

The Janis E. Dismus AVID program seeks to prepare each of the students to enter high school ready for honors level class with the expectation of taking at least one Advance Placement class in both the junior and senior years.

	The Center for Effective School Practices (CESP) provides Englewood with training and on-site consultant services.  CESP is the regional support center for AVID in New Jersey and Pennsylvania .
	All AVID programs operate as affiliates of the national program head quartered in San Diego , California .  The national center provides all instructional and training materials, establishes and enforces certification standards, and links the AVID program with state and national educational improvement efforts.