Eighth grade AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) students from every GCISD middle school got a first-hand look at high school life during AVID Shadow Day Monday, December 8. The annual event pairs middle school students with AVID high school “buddies” at Colleyville Heritage High School and Grapevine High School. The purpose is to provide eighth graders an opportunity to experience the day with a fellow AVID high school student.
Grapevine High School freshman Poppy Bergman remembers the impact the experience had on her last year and was eager to volunteer as a buddy this year.
“It helped me understand the day-to-day life of high school, like getting around campus, and it strengthened my communication and listening skills,” she said. “AVID teaches us these skills to get us college and career ready.”
She added that Shadow Day eased the nerves she once had about entering high school. “I hope my buddy walks away excited about next year as I did.”
Along with attending classes, middle school students had an opportunity to hear from a student-led panel of AVID high school students. Panelists explained that high school AVID dives deeper into college preparation, tuition, scholarships, and other costs, while emphasizing independent learning and leadership as well as learning to ask detailed, rather than broad, questions––all attributes that will be helpful in college.
The panel also encouraged eighth graders to take advantage of the opportunities offered in GCISD high schools, such as Advanced Placement (AP) and dual credit courses, which could save on future college costs. The district’s Career and Technical Education is another program that was suggested because it offers students a preview of possible future job and career paths.
Bergman was paired with Elin Nguyen, an eighth grader from Grapevine Middle School, who said the experience exceeded expectations.
She especially enjoyed the Advanced Placement classes she visited. “It showed me that I can push myself and that I can take the harder classes.” Most of all, she added, “It was good to see what high school is like, but also how the AVID program in high school will help us.”
Families of students who will be in middle school next school year are encouraged to attend the AVID Family Information Session to be held January 28, 2026, at the district’s Professional Development and Education Center (PDEC), 5800 Colleyville Blvd., Colleyville, TX 76034. At the event, families can learn what AVID is and how students can apply to enter the program. Look for more information about the event to be shared through district and campus newsletters in the coming weeks.