In September, Sussman Middle School proudly joined schools across the nation in celebrating AVID Day 2026, a special event dedicated to recognizing the power of AVID in preparing students for college, career, and life success. AVID Day is a nationwide celebration of opportunity, student achievement, and the collective efforts of educators, families, and communities who help students realize their full potential. AVID encourages students to develop the skills, confidence, and mindset needed to thrive in rigorous academic environments and pursue meaningful postsecondary pathways.
Under the leadership of AVID Coordinator Jocelyn Villasana and Interim Principal Jayson Quimby, Sussman Middle School transformed the campus into a vibrant celebration of college and career readiness. Their commitment to fostering a culture of high expectations and student success was evident throughout the event as students participated in engaging activities designed to inspire future planning while building school spirit.
The celebration featured festive AVID-themed photo booths filled with college and career props, allowing students to capture memorable moments with friends while envisioning their future goals. Students proudly posed with signs and props representing colleges, careers, and aspirations, reinforcing the message that higher education and career success are within reach for every student. AVID Day celebrations across the country encourage students to reflect on their future opportunities and share how AVID has impacted their lives.
Students also participated in college and career-themed coloring activities, which provided a creative and interactive way to explore future professions, universities, and pathways after high school. The campus was energized with music and laughter as students gathered to celebrate the importance of dreaming big and planning for their futures.
A favorite part of the day was the variety of lawn games and interactive activities that encouraged teamwork, communication, and relationship-building among students. These activities reflected AVID’s emphasis on developing essential life skills such as collaboration, critical thinking, leadership, and perseverance. Through both friendly competition and cooperative play, students experienced firsthand the value of working together toward common goals.
The event highlighted AVID’s College and Career Readiness Framework, which focuses on helping students develop rigorous academic skills, explore future opportunities, and build the confidence and agency needed to navigate their educational and career journeys successfully. AVID’s mission is to ensure that all students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and support necessary to excel in college, career, and life.
The success of AVID Day was made possible through the dedication and collaboration of the Sussman staff, led by Jocelyn Villasana and Jayson Quimby, who created a meaningful experience that celebrated student potential and future aspirations. Their leadership helped cultivate an environment where students were encouraged to envision bright futures, set ambitious goals, and recognize the many opportunities available to them.
As students left the celebration with photos, memories, and smiles, they also carried with them an important reminder: their future is full of possibilities, and with hard work, support, and determination, they can achieve their college and career dreams. Through events like AVID Day, Sussman Middle School continues to empower students to become confident learners, future leaders, and lifelong achievers.