On Tuesday, Greeley Mayor John Gates issued a proclamation officially recognizing AVID Day, September 12, in the city of Greeley, honoring the program’s long impact on local students. The ceremonial event brought together students and teachers from three high schools –  Greeley West, Greeley Central, and Northridge.  Each selected one student to represent their school. At Greeley West, senior Karla Chavarria Moreno was chosen for the honor.

For Chavarria Moreno, being selected was meaningful. “It felt cool because AVID is an important part of my academic life,” she said.

AVID, which stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination, is a college readiness program designed to help students build strong academic skills, leadership, and confidence.

Mayor Gates’ proclamation highlighted the scale of AVID in Greeley-Evans District 6, noting that the program serves more than 8,000 students across 25 schools. Many of those students are English Language Learners, students of color, or come from low income backgrounds, yet their achievements surpass national averages. According to the proclamation, 99% of AVID seniors graduate on time, 95% complete four year college entrance requirements, 73% take dual enrollment classes, and 97% complete advanced coursework such as AP or IB.

Chavarria Moreno said she hopes the recognition of AVID Day inspires more students to see the program’s value. “I hope it shows them that AVID is a helpful program and that it’s beneficial to your future life,” she said.

She added that AVID has already shaped her journey by “creating good habits and giving me good problem-solving strategies that can be applied in and out of school.”

Greeley West principal Mr. Jeffery Cranson said the proclamation reflects the larger impact of the program. “AVID is making a difference in the community, changing lives and credit goes to kids and teachers,” he said.