As a way to send off a small group of AVID seniors, AVID teacher Arminda King hosted a celebration in her classroom this past Friday. AVID is a program at M-A that specializes in helping students become successful in high school classes and eventually college. The event reflected everything the program had meant to the students over the past four years: growth, friendship, and community.
The students themselves helped organize the celebration, putting together slideshow games that brought laughter and nostalgic memories. Students enjoyed food, shared stories, and expressed an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the time they had spent together.
“The best part was being here with everyone one last time. It’s a small group, but that’s what made it so meaningful,” senior Alex Leonardo, AVID Vice President, said. “I feel like I wanted to be vice president because AVID has helped me come a long way, especially academically and socially.”
After the students settled in with casual conversation and light snacks, the ceremony began by honoring three students with scholarships. King delivered a heartfelt speech for each individual, highlighting their growth during their years in AVID and praising their strong personal qualities. The recipients included seniors Karen Martinez*, Benjamin Calonje-Quintero and Ana Guzman.
The next activity, led by senior Joanna Ramirez, was a game of “Who is most likely to?” Students had submitted their responses to prompts given before the event, ranging from funny ones like “Who is most likely to talk their way out of a speeding ticket?” to heartwarming ones like “Who is most likely to be a good parent?” Students then shouted out who they believed was most suited for each category, comparing their guesses to survey results. Most of the guesses were correct, demonstrating how tight-knit the group is.
Senior Yandel Hernandez then led a spirited game of “Guess the senior,” where students competed to identify their classmates’ baby photos. “My baby picture is adorable—everyone better guess right!” senior Angeleah Fayette said.
Soon after, Hernandez was awarded the Spirit of AVID award, an honor he didn’t see coming. When the form came out, Hernandez mentioned how he had voted for other people. “There are so many amazing people in our class. To be chosen—it’s emotional. I’m just really happy,” he said.
Fayette, who has been in AVID all four years, expressed her gratitude as the day unfolded. “I found a community here,” she said. “I met some of my best friends through AVID. It helped me stay focused on my work and get ready for college.”
As the celebration came to a close, students posed for photos, shared hugs, and expressed appreciation for all the staff in building their AVID family.
“This isn’t just a class,” Hernandez said. “It’s a family. Even though we’re going our separate ways, that bond doesn’t end here.”
*Karen Martinez is a journalist for the M-A Chronicle.
Hello from Houston, Texas. Thanks for sharing the AVID journey with your readers. I enjoyed reading about the comradery and positive interactions among the AVID Seniors, and how AVID has become that school family that supports the dreams of the future. Best of luck to all on your next phase of life’s journey.
Barbara Copeland, AVID SWT Executive Director