Mansfield ISD Magazine Summer 2019 | Page 8

Mansfield ISD Schools Named AVID Sites of Distinction Timberview High School and James Coble Middle School AVID departments were recognized at the April 23 board meeting. I am especially proud of this award because this level of implementation reflects the efforts of the entire campus to ensure that all students are pre- pared for their respective post-secondary paths. ~ AVID District Coordinator, Katrina Mabry-Smith 8 | Mansfield TODAY James Coble Middle School and Timberview High School have been des- ignated as Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) Schoolwide Sites of Distinction. AVID is a nationwide nonprofit that helps schools shift to a more equitable, student-centered approach. Its goal is to close the opportunity gap helping to prepare all students for college, careers and life. “This year, we added all male AVID elective classes, which made a difference on our campus,” said Winston Gipson, principal at James Coble Middle School. “I am proud that our faculty and students are recognized for all the hard work this award requires.” The award is given to schools around the nation demonstrating their teachers are utilizing AVID strategies and tools to ensure college readiness for AVID stu- dents and who show improved academic performance for all students. Less than 5 percent of AVID’s 6,000 campuses nation- wide receive this recognition. “The faculty and staff at Timberview High School have established a culture across campus that sets high expecta- tions for all students,” said Timberview principal Derrell Douglas. “This type of commitment is admired and desired by many parents, students, teachers and community members.” Many AVID students will be the first in their families to attend college and are from groups traditionally underrepre- sented in higher education. AVID equips teachers and schools with what they need to help students succeed on a path to college and career success. However, teachers can take what they learn at AVID trainings to help all students become more college and career ready, not just those participating in AVID. “I am especially proud of this award because this level of implementation reflects the efforts of the entire campus to ensure that all students are prepared for their respective post-secondary paths,” said AVID District Coordinator, Katrina Mabry-Smith. “Earning this distinction is quite an accomplishment. Coble and Tim- berview have shown tremendous growth in the percentages of students school- wide who are completing college-en- trance requirements and participating in advanced courses.”