Tuesday, 3 March 2020

AVID school program

Mr McGHIE (Melton) (13:46): I rise to speak about a powerful program running at Kurunjang Secondary College and Kurunjang Primary School in Melton. I visited both to learn more about the AVID program, founded in the US. Victoria University holds the only licence to run this program outside the US, and it is ably led by Claire Brown. AVID is currently in 14 Victorian schools. Advancement Via Individual Determination—AVID—aptly describes this whole-of-school program centring around continuous improvement, self-determination and confidence. I spoke with assistant principal David Veale, a long-time proponent of the AVID program; principal John Mitsinikos, an enthusiastic supporter of the program; and wonderful teaching staff like Dominic Snape. AVID’s mission is to close the achievement and opportunity gaps, encouraging participation, questioning, collaborative problem solving and note-taking strategies to aid in the learning and retention of information.

I met AVID ambassadors, Dakota and Ruby. Their enthusiasm was contagious, their clear, thoughtful comments extraordinary. They explained how AVID gives them a very different perspective and allows them to confidently push their boundaries. Ruby was shy, but now speaks openly and confidently about her aspirations. Dakota came to the school knowing no-one; AVID provided her with an outlet to talk with like-minded students and grow friendships. Dakota and Ruby are proud participants. There is no doubt both will make positive contributions not just academically but throughout their lives.

Some dazzling quick stats: 98 per cent of AVID students graduate from high school, Aussie AVID schools have seen a 30 per cent increase in student enrolments to university, AVID improves academic performance regardless of student background and— (Time expired)