For the second time since 2006, Fontana High School has been certified and named an AVID National Demonstration School.  The designation is for a three-year term, and came after a series of evaluations and school visits by the AVID program’s national and regional staff.

The AVID program focuses on “Achievement Via Individual Determination” and works with students who have the potential to attend and succeed in college after graduation, but who might otherwise not attend.  Many are low income, come from families where English is not spoken at home, or come from families who have no college experience.

AVID students are enrolled in rigorous AVID classes and learn techniques to earn college acceptance, receive scholarships, and later succeed in college.  As a result of the skill set taught in the program, AVID students also attain higher grade point averages.

Fohi’s program has been very successful, with one of the largest graduating AVID senior classes in San Bernardino County and with historically more than 85 percent of AVID students being accepted into at least one four-year college.

“Being named an AVID National Demonstration School is an honor for our school, and our students and staff,” said Fohi Principal Dr. Lisa Romero. “So many of our AVID students have new opportunities offered to them by learning how to get into college, and how to succeed there. Our AVID staff are dedicated to having their students succeed, always going the extra steps, including after-school work and Saturday school to make sure they stay on track. This designation really belongs to the students who work so hard, and to the staff who guide them.”