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• AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a nationally-recognized, research-based program aligned with The College Board and implemented to prepare students in the academic middle for four-year college access and success.  These students are from groups that are generally under-represented in university programs and are students who are capable of and committed to completing a high school college-prep curriculum.  The students are typically the first in their families to attend college.
• Students are recommended by their teachers to participate and complete an application and interview process.  Parent involvement and commitment to the program are also an integral component of AVID participation.
• AVID curriculum is delivered during a one hour elective class that supports students as they tackle the most rigorous classes.
  • AVID curriculum includes learning strategies – WICR – that focus on writing, inquiry, collaboration, and reading – in addition to time management, note taking, information/exposure to post-secondary applications, financial aid, etc.
  • Another component of the AVID elective class is tutorial.  Two days a week, tutors work with the AVID students during the elective class in small study groups.  The study groups explore/investigate topics/concepts currently being studied in the students’ Advanced Placement and College-prep classes.
  • AVID also utilizes Socratic Seminar and Philosophical Chairs’ strategies

How long has AVID been implemented in Olathe Schools?

• Olathe began AVID during the 2006-07 school year at five sites.
• In 2007-08, Olathe added three additional AVID sites

Which Olathe schools have AVID programs?

• Olathe has launched AVID programs in the following schools:
  • Olathe East, North, Northwest, and South High Schools
    • Grades 10, 11, 12
• Indian Trail, Oregon Trail, Pioneer Trail, and Santa Fe Trail Junior Highs
  • Grades 8 and 9

Graduate Statistics

In May, 2008, eleven seniors from Olathe North were the first Olathe AVID graduates.  Of the eleven, all were headed to higher education and over 75% had been awarded scholarships.  One AVID graduate was recognized as a Gates Millennium Scholar – a national scholarship that will underwrite his higher education expenses through doctoral level.

In May, 2009, a total of 43 AVID seniors will graduate from Olathe high schools.  Scholarship information is incomplete at this time; however, one AVID senior has been recognized as a Dell Scholar representing $20,000 to be awarded over six years.

Olathe East – 12 grads/12 to post-high

Olathe North – 11 grads/11 to post-high

Olathe Northwest – 12 grads/12 to post-high

Olathe South – 7 grads/7 to post-high

That initial project gave birth to one of America’s most efficient charities that today is improving health in more than 60 countries, including the United States. We continue to be motivated by the same principles that guided that first group of visionaries.

Rotary is a global network of business and professional leaders who volunteer their time and talents in service to philanthropic projects locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. Since its inception, Rotary has proudly stepped forward to encourage initiatives that transcend politics and promote the common good. It was Rotary that, in 1942, called for an international peace conference that later became the United Nations. Rotarians have worked to provide clean water and sustainable food sources in developing countries; promoted literacy; and championed medical care for all. In 2002, Rotary began partnering with the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and the US Centers for Disease Control in bold effort to eradicate polio. Today, the number of polio cases worldwide has declined an amazing 99%.
Rotary began in Olathe in 1937. The Olathe Rotary Club has distinguished itself, and received Rotary International recognition, for some of its projects: rebuilding a school in Belize, reconstructing a fish market destroyed by hurricane Hugo in St. Croix, starting what became Heart to Heart International, supporting local youth activities and organizations, the arts, innumerable charities, and student scholarships. Over 90% of our charitable giving is for children and youth who have needs.
Olathe Rotarians are part of 1.2 million other Rotarians worldwide who are working to serve other, promote ethical business practices, and foster international understanding and goodwill.