Brockport High School joined schools across the country in celebrating AVID Day, recognizing the educators and students who work together to expand access, opportunity and possibilities for the future.

Through AVID, students strengthen skills in critical thinking, organization, collaboration and self-advocacy — skills that prepare them not only for college and careers, but also to move through life with greater confidence.

For senior Jess Maher, AVID has helped turn questions about the future into a clear path forward.

“AVID means everything to me,” Maher said. “It’s helped me decide what I want to do in my future, including what college I want to go to. It really helped shape my future.”

Yet, it is the sense of belonging she found along the way that may be the hardest to leave behind.

“I’m going to miss my AVID family after graduation,” Maher said.

Senior Erica Spikes has seen her confidence grow in ways she once could not have imagined.

“I remember I used to get really shaky and nervous when it came to presentations, and now it’s second nature,” Spikes said. “It’s helped my confidence in so many ways.”

Senior Kelsey Pullen shared a similar transformation, reflecting on how AVID helped her find both the skills and the courage to use her voice.

“AVID has been everything,” Pullen said. “I feel like if I didn’t join this class, I wouldn’t be where I am today. It’s helped me with my studying, my communication skills—so much. Before, I used to be really scared to speak up, but now I can talk easily, especially in front of a crowd.”

Their words capture what makes AVID so meaningful at Brockport High School. Behind every new skill, confident presentation and plan for the future is a student who discovered what they are capable of—and an educator who believed in them along the way.

On AVID Day, BCSD proudly celebrates that growth and the students and staff whose commitment has made it possible.