San Juan Unified celebrates the graduation of over 180 students from its AVID Program
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San Juan Unified celebrates the graduation of over 180 students from its AVID Program
Families and friends filled Mesa Verde High School’s stadium on April 25 to celebrate the graduation of over 180 San Juan Unified School District students at its Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) Senior Celebration.
AVID is an elective class that equips students with essential life and academic skills such as reading, writing, organization, communication and collaboration. The overall mission is to prepare all students for college readiness and success.
This year, there were seven student speakers representing the seven San Juan Unified high schools in attendance. Each 12th-grader was awarded an embroidered graduation stole because of their commitment and work throughout their time in AVID.
Mustafa Al Hilfi, a 12th-grade AVID student at Mesa Verde who immigrated from Baghdad, Iraq, said he was initially overwhelmed by the transition but was able to find a sense of belonging and purpose through the program.
“When I first immigrated to the United States, I kind of had an identity crisis. I didn’t feel I belonged here. After joining AVID, I realized everyone around me had the same goals, same ideas and same interests. AVID paved the way and made it really easy for me to go to college,” said Al Hilfi.
Leslie Peoples, the AVID coordinator at Mesa Verde, emphasizes the program's focus on deliberate strategies for success, ranging from organization and time management to communication and goal setting.
“I have been an AVID coordinator at Mesa Verde High School since 2011 and 100% of our graduates have earned admission to a four-year college,” said Peoples.
Beyond academics, AVID fosters personal growth and development, instilling valuable life skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
“I think AVID builds structure, fosters good relationships and really builds a solid foundation for kids to be successful not only in the classroom but also in their future,” said Peoples.
San Juan Unified is proud to celebrate the endless opportunities available to students because of their hard work and dedication.