In Response to Now in Texas: Concerning the AVID Program

AVID, Advancement Via Individual Determination, is a promising program to many students excel towards a higher education and standard of living in America, especially the minorities. Texas is known for having minorities as a huge part of our state. After reading Now in Texas’ blog, I have discovered the rewarding benefits this program has to offer for students in the 5th -12th grades. The number of students getting helped by AVID is increasing each year, and the statistics express that the students in this program do better in school and produce constructive results for their futures.

My question to Now in Texas is: how do these schools implement this program, and what are the costs for providing it? This is unclear in the blog post, but I think it’s important information. What’s the catch? If AVID’s main target is assisting minorities, then this program should be a tool Texas uses to break away from Robin Hood. Rather than take other school’s money, or by taking other school’s money, this program could be put into practice to alleviate the unfair catastrophe Robin Hood has become. Every school in Texas deserves equal opportunity, quality, and facility requirements. Depending on the price of AVID, it could determine the necessary amount of money Robin Hood takes away from the wealthier schools. Schools that have a more diverse population, tend to need more attention and special needs. It’s also important to factor in the sizes of the schools and students that are partaking in this program. All students should be aware of their educational journey, and get a clear idea of the map as they further their knowledge. Many students probably benefit from the AVID program, and learn their options and opportunities following middle school and after high school. The minorities, including, Hispanics, African Americans, Asian Americans, and Native Americans tend to need special assistance or guidance in school, especially if they aren’t getting any help from their parents, which is highly possible.

The option of furthering one’s education by attending college is imperative to a young person’s life. If AVID teaches students that, and executes a stronger work ethic in students, I encourage Texas schools to consider this option. To get more factual background and see some statistics regarding the effectiveness AVID has had on schools including Carter-Riverside High School in Fort Worth, and schools outside of Texas, I encourage you to take a glance at my fellow colleague’s blog post –AVID, one step closer to college dreams.