Continuing Education Resources

The AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program is an important resource for students who may face barriers to academic success. In Yelm Community Schools, the AVID program is offered at Ridgeline Middle School, Yelm Middle School, and Yelm High School. AVID seeks to close the achievement gap by providing academic support and resources to students who are traditionally underrepresented in higher education, such as low-income, first-generation, and minority students. The program emphasizes skills such as critical thinking, organization, and effective communication, and provides support through tutoring, mentoring, and academic counseling. AVID helps students develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed academically and prepares them for college and career success. By providing a supportive and engaging learning environment, AVID helps students overcome obstacles to academic success and ensures that all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential. Through its commitment to academic excellence and equity, the AVID program is making a positive difference in the lives of students and communities across the country.

• AVID National Website
• Danielle Brown, AVID Instructional Coach, at 360.458.6120

There are four programs that award college credit to students in high school, beginning in 9th grade: Advanced Placement (AP), Career and Technical Education (CTE), Running Start, and College in the High School (CiHS). CiHS courses fulfill both high school diploma and college degree requirements and are offered on the YHS campus through South Puget Sound Community College and Central Washington University. CiHS courses benefit students in several ways, including:

1. Advanced Preparation: College credit courses provide high school students with an opportunity to gain exposure to college-level curriculum, which can prepare them for the academic rigor of higher education. They can also help students understand the expectations and demands of college coursework, making their transition to college easier.
    
2. College Savings: College credit courses taken in high school are typically less expensive (and free of charge in many cases) than taking the same courses in college. Students who take these courses are able to earn college credits without incurring the high cost of tuition and fees. They also save time in the long run because they don’t need to take the courses again in college.
    
3. Increased Flexibility: By taking college credit courses in high school, students have greater flexibility in their college schedules. They may be able to complete required courses earlier or take elective courses that they would not otherwise have been able to take.
    
4. Enhanced College Applications: Students who take college credit courses in high school demonstrate their academic ability and commitment to higher education. This can be attractive to college admissions officers and can enhance a student's college application.
    
5. Improved Time Management and Study Skills: Taking college credit courses in high school can help students develop the necessary time management and study skills needed to be successful in college. Students who take these courses learn how to manage their time effectively and how to study independently, which are essential skills for college success. 

Overall, taking college credit courses in high school provides numerous benefits to students. It can help them prepare for college, save money and time, increase their flexibility, enhance their college applications, and develop critical skills necessary for success in higher education.

CTE Dual Credit is technical college credit earned in high school that gives students a jump start to a college education. Student completing approved technical classes while in high school can earn both high school and free college credit simultaneously. In order to receive college credit students must

1. meet specific grading criteria for each class which requires a minimum of a grade each semester and
2. other technical performance competencies outlined by the college

Students enroll at the end of the course when all compentencies have been achieved.  

Review the current list of CTE Courses with Dual Credit.