PYLUSD equips middle school AVID students with leadership skills at all-day workshop

The Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District’s (PYLUSD) once again partnered with CASL, the California Association of Student Leaders, to bring all-day leadership workshops to 7th and 8th grade AVID students from all six middle schools. This included Bernardo Yorba, Kraemer, Tuffree, Travis Ranch, Valadez, and Yorba Linda. The events took place on Tuesday, February 12 and 19 at El Dorado High School in Placentia.

AVID, which stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination, is a nationwide non-profit organization devoted to closing the achievement gap by preparing all students for college readiness and success in a global society.

The theme, “Lean in Together,” was meant to empower the AVID students with the skills they need to become leaders in their classrooms and on their campuses as they move up in middle school and transition into high school.

The workshops were hosted by El Dorado AVID students from all four grade levels. The Golden Hawks served as “facilitators” as they were trained by the CASL presenter and helped guide their younger peers through the day’s events. Both the AVID facilitators and participants were asked to step outside of their comfort zones, consider changing their perspectives, and bring what they learned back to their respective campuses. The day provided many opportunities for fun and moments of serious self-reflection.

PYLUSD students commented that they, “loved making AVID friends from the other middle schools.” AVID teachers mentioned how they, “enjoyed seeing their students be less inhibited and take on new challenges.”

“We are hopeful that this event will lead to more AVID leaders in our PYLUSD communities!” shared Bernardo Yorba Middle School AVID Coordinator, Leigh Ann Swarm.