January 2026

Yes, Even PE: 

How AVID Transforms Every Classroom 

With perspective from Ashley Linhart, Waukesha North High School (WI), and Dale Hemker, Danville High School (IL) 

PE teachers once doubted AVID could fit in a gym class. Through modeling and peer learning, they proved it’s possible—and powerful. Discover simple strategies to bring AVID into any classroom. 

Mid-Year Momentum:

Practical Steps to Strengthen AVID 

With perspective from Dr. Paolina Schiro, RIMS AVID Program Manager (CA) 

Site Teams across districts gather mid-year to review data, apply the Continuous Improvement Cycle (Plan–Do–Study–Act), and share innovative practices. This replicable approach can help your team prioritize what matters most and strengthen AVID implementation for the second half of the school year and beyond. 

Student Agency in Action:

Understanding Beliefs to Unlock Potential 

With perspective from Tanya Taylor, Levy County Public Schools (FL)

What if you could measure students’ belief, confidence, and ownership? In Levy County, the data tell a nuanced story: two of their three elementary schools saw gains of up to 8% in Student Agency in only 1 year. Discover how their approach is reshaping classrooms and what it could mean for yours. 

AVID Celebrates

Robin Buckingham Named Oregon Middle School Principal of the Year for Transformative Leadership

Claggett Creek Middle School Principal Robin Buckingham has been honored as the 2026 Oregon Middle School Principal of the Year for her exceptional leadership and commitment. Under her guidance, the school achieved remarkable academic growth and sustained its AVID National Demonstration School status, proof that strong leadership is the cornerstone of successful AVID implementation.  

AVID Celebrates 

Virginia Honors AVID’s Lasting Impact on Student Success 

The Commonwealth of Virginia formally recognized AVID for its enduring commitment to educational opportunity and postsecondary readiness. This legacy began when Virginia became the first East Coast state to adopt AVID. Today, more than 15,000 Virginia students and 2,000 educators benefit from AVID’s proven college- and career-readiness system, with 97% of AVID seniors completing rigorous coursework and 92% planning to attend college.  

Welcome New Partners

• Dixon Montessori Charter School (CA) 

• Thomas Edison Charter Academy (CA) 

• Valley Robotics Academy, Lodi Unified School District (CA) 

• Jones Futures Academy, Houston Independent School District (TX) 

• Rickey C. Bailey Middle School, Spring Independent School District (TX) 

• Seagraves Middle School, Seagraves Independent School District (TX) 

• Westside High School, Houston Independent School District (TX) 

What's Happening at AVID 

From new resources to important dates, here’s what’s happening across the AVID community this month. Let’s keep the momentum going! 

• Last Chance for Live Learning 

Time is running out! Join AVID Virtual Live™ on January 27–28 for 2 days of interactive learning. Connect in real time, gain fresh strategies, and strengthen your practice—without the need to travel. 

• Apply Now to Elevate Your Impact 
Don’t wait—apply for the 2026 AVID Certified Educator cohort! Applications close January 30. Take this step to deepen your expertise and lead transformative change for students. 

• Mark Your Calendar for AVID Summer Institute™ 
Summer Institute registration opens February 10. Explore this year’s locations and secure your spot for 3 days of empowering professional learning that will shape the year ahead. 

This newsletter is made for you—and shaped by you.

Share your best practices so the AVID Community can learn from, support, and inspire each other.