AVID Students in Birdville ISD Outperform Students Nationally in FAFSA, College Application Completion and College Acceptance
Data from 2018-2019 school year shows district leading in preparing students for college
Birdville ISD recently released new 2018–19 data on the success of last year’s graduating class of students participating in the District’s AVID program―a nationally recognized program that helps students navigate the college application process, and build the academic and soft skills needed to succeed in college and the workforce of the future.
Last year, 94% of Birdville Independent School District seniors participating in AVID completed a FAFSA application, compared to the national rate of 61%. Likewise, 100% of AVID students applied to four-year college or university, and 100% were accepted. Nationally, 81% of high school students aspire to earn a bachelor’s degree, yet less than 50% actually enroll at a four-year college or university.
“The numbers reflect what we already know about students that participate in AVID in BISD. This program prepares first-generation college students to be successful,” stated Dr. Darrell G. Brown, Birdville ISD superintendent. “Birdville ISD is dedicated to excellence in academics, a personalized education for every child, and preparing our students to be college, career or future ready.”
Research shows that applying for financial aid is one of the best predictors of whether a student will enroll in college. Through the AVID program, the District hosts regular FAFSA application nights and provides dedicated in-school time for students to work with teachers and staff to complete their applications, providing them with better insight into the financial resources available to them.
“We congratulate Birdville Independent School District for its demonstrated commitment to ensuring that all students have the opportunity to pursue a postsecondary education. The milestones announced today reflect the Birdville Independent School District’s holistic approach to college readiness, starting with building a culture of high expectations among teachers and students, and including the delivery of rigorous, student-centric instruction that prepares them for college-level work,” said Dr. Sandy Husk, former school superintendent and CEO of AVID. “We are proud to be part of Birdville Independent School District’s work to ensure all students can reach their full potential.”
Birdville Independent School District joins over 7,000 K–12 schools and districts across 47 states that partner with AVID to build a safe and open culture, high expectations for teachers and students, and collaboration in all classrooms. To learn more: www.AVID.org.
