New data released by Whittier Union shows that seniors in its Class of 2019 who were enrolled in the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program – implemented at Pioneer, Santa Fe and Whittier high schools – are outperforming their peers nationally in taking Advanced Placement (AP) exams.
Last year, 68% of Whittier Union AVID seniors took at least one AP exam, compared with the national average of 39%. Additionally, of the District’s most recent AVID graduates, 92% met four-year college entrance requirements and 82% took at least one AP course.
“We are proud of the rigorous college-readiness programs and academically challenging courses we provide to our students on all campuses to ensure they are prepared for success in high school and college,” Superintendent Martin Plourde said. “AVID is just one of the many support programs we have implemented to ensure our students reach their greatest potential and have a plan in place to achieve their long-term goals.”
Pioneer and Santa Fe high schools are National AVID Demonstration Schools and Whittier High is a Highly Certified AVID site. All Whittier Union comprehensive high schools offer AP courses, promote college readiness and provide programs and resources to help students attend a four-year university.
Studies have shown that participation in AP coursework and exams have a positive impact on a student's high school GPA, college acceptance and retention and eligibility to receive scholarships.