By: Kendall David, Executive Director of Community Engagement
Goose Creek Memorial High School has officially achieved a significant milestone in its journey towards academic distinction and student success by being designated as a National AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) Demonstration School. Only two other high schools in the greater Houston area and twenty-one others in Texas have achieved this designation. This honor highlights the school's commitment to implementing best practices in education and implementing an environment of equity, access, and college readiness for all students. GCM first became a National Demonstration School in January of 2020 and since, has undergone a strenuous revalidation process.
GCCISD celebrates GCM as a National Demonstration School. Photo by Carrie Pryor-Newman.
Brianna Nole, senior and AVID President shared, “GCM has given me so many opportunities and the AVID class is my family. I am doing big things, I am going to graduate high school with an associate’s degree and am attending Prairie View A&M, and I have big goals for my future. I owe that to AVID.”
Fabian Cienfuegos, AVID senior, was asked to describe AVID in one word: “Empowering. We did not come in to this school perfect. Individual determination is what AVID stands for and AVID gives us the tools we need. Our district motto is Here, We Grow Giants. AVID is how we do that at GCM.”
AVID focuses on providing academic, social, and emotional support to students, particularly those historically underrepresented in higher education. Becoming a National AVID Demonstration School signifies that GCM has met rigorous standards set forth by the AVID organization, demonstrating exemplary implementation of AVID methodologies and practices school wide.
Nancy Jacobs, GCM AVID coordinator, was in tears watching AVID student ambassadors, Baylee Tompkins, Codee Rice, and Mauricio Salgado give a tour of the school, “Watching my kids so confidently articulate their learning and show pride for our school just makes me emotional. Building these leaders is what it is all about.”
This achievement is a result of the dedicated efforts of the GCM community, including administrators, teachers, staff, students, and parents.
Kendall David, Executive Director of Community Engagement and AVID District Director, spoke about how the district is relentless in effective implementation of AVID, “AVID is anchored in the district’s strategic plan, instructional framework, and professional development plan. It is a non-negotiable in GCCISD. We’ve built a community of strong AVID coordinators who serve as instructional leaders in our district.”
As a National AVID Demonstration School, GCM will serve as a model of superiority and innovation in education, sharing its best practices and insights with educators across the nation. By showcasing effective strategies for promoting student success and closing achievement gaps, the school will play a crucial role in advancing educational equity and distinction on a broader scale.
Kathy Holland, principal at GCM stated, “everything we do revolves around instruction, AVID is our tool to implement high quality, rigorous learning for ALL students. Our teachers are incredible and have a true passion for our kids and their success in high school and beyond and we are thrilled to share this with the world.”
The designation as a National AVID Demonstration School not only recognizes past achievements but also sets the stage for continued growth and improvement. GCM will continue to build upon its success, refining its practices, and implementing new initiatives to further support the academic and personal growth of its students. As a model of excellence in education, GCM will continue to inspire and empower students to reach their fullest potential and achieve their dreams.