AVID Superstars
AVID showcases students who are standouts in their classrooms, schools and communities. These AVID Superstars exemplify what it means to be a leader and an exceptional student. Check back every month to learn about two more AVID Superstars.
If you would like to nominate a student to be an AVID Superstar, please fill out the following form and return to Devon Tolliver, dtolliver@avidcenter.org, along with a high resolution digital photo and a signed photo release form on page two of the nomination form.
AVID Superstars: Student Nomination Form
AVID Superstars: Student Nomination Form
Photo Release Form
March 2010 Superstars
Ethan Fowler, Newsome HS
The AVID program has made high school a much easier time in my life. This program has made a difference by requiring me to be more structured in academics. I have also seen a difference outside of school, in my leadership abilities. I will always remember the experiences that I have had as a part of the AVID program."
Ethan is a remarkable student who exemplifies the AVID mentality, Advancement Via Individual Determination. He came into the AVID program as a sophomore and I have watched him develop into a leader over the past two years. He is the AVID Club President, and runs a club with over 80 contributing members. He is an academic leader, who is constantly pushing himself to achieve at higher levels. He is a mentor to other students, helping them whenever possible.
Ieesha Griffin, Harding University HS
AVID has exposed me to options: options for college, study, and professions. It challenged me to dig into my personality and find out what works for me."
Ieesha has a strong work ethic and desire to learn. Ieesha is one of the most intelligent, polite, and responsible students I know. There is no doubt in my mind that she will go far in life. I truly believe that the contributing factors of Ieesha's success are her love for reading and her organizational skills. She also excels in her analytical skills, as I have noticed as her AP English teacher. Ieesha accepts all challenges without complaining and completes all tasks successfully as a result. Ieesha's well-rounded nature makes her the ideal student.
February 2010 Superstars
Melissa Raygoza, Holland MS
When I came to a fork in the road, AVID gave me the map I needed to find my path for success."
Melissa is an 8th grade AVID student, who is in her second year in our program. She is caring and selfless, but this year she has gone above and beyond all of my expectations. Melissa was in my Algebra class last year, earned an A and scored proficient (404) on the CST test. She should have been in Geometry this year, but due to a district personnel change, and resulting change in pre-requisites, was returned to Algebra. She was heartbroken, especially as her two best friends were in Geometry, and had every right to complain, feel sorry for herself, and let up. She has, however, done just the opposite. She is a student/peer tutor in this year's 7th grade Algebra class, working with five of my girls. Melissa also volunteers three hours a week in my afterschool Algebra tutoring program, often staying beyond the 3:45 end time to help the girls "get it!" I recently lost two of my college tutors, and knew exactly where to go. Melissa agreed to step into one of our 7th grade AVID classes as a cross-age tutor, and has been exceptional! She is the vice president of our AVID student council, and did a lot of work behind the scenes to help Holland become the newest National Demonstration School on Monday, December 14th. As you can see, Melissa truly is an AVID superstar!
Gonzalo Lopez, O'Banion MS / South Garland HS
AVID believes in me. The high grades are thanks to the AVID strategies that I am being taught. Even though I came from another country seeking a better life, AVID tells me - I will succeed no matter what!"
Gonzalo is an AVID superstar because he uses his quest for excellence to serve his community. Even though he is only a freshman as South Garland, he has accumulated over 43 community service hours. His grades are outstanding and he continuously strives to be a better person and better student. It is as though AVID has provided Gonzalo with the desire to hone his skills and pursue excellence in life, in school, and in his community. He is one of those students who makes you want to be a better teacher.