AVID is a system for school districts and sites to accelerate learning. AVID includes an academic elective course that prepares students for entrance into university. Students typically receive weekly instruction in university entry skills, tutor-led study groups, motivational presentations and academic survival skills. In AVID, students participate in activities that incorporate strategies focused on writing, inquiry, collaboration and reading (WICR) to support their growth academically. AVID Tutors help students with the process of learning through inquiry, rather than giving students the answers to questions. Students learn the value of working collaboratively with others in tutorial. Students also learn skills such as time management, note-taking strategies and effective reading strategies. AVID is an elective course designed to support students in the middle, typically with a grade point average of 2.0 to 3.5 (C’s to B+’s), who are motivated to go to university.

AVID was initiated in 1980 by Mary Catherine Swanson, the head of the English department at San Diego’s Clairemont High School. Today AVID Center provides curriculum, support and professional development to school districts with AVID programs.