Arroyo Valley High School (AVHS) has been recognized as one of only three schools in California to receive the prestigious 2026 AVID Teacher Advocacy Award, a distinguished honor presented by the national AVID Center in recognition of the school’s exceptional commitment to student success, educational equity and college and career readiness.

The award, which includes an $11,000 grant funded by a private donor to the AVID Center, was presented during a surprise celebration by representatives from the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools, including County Superintendent Ted Alejandre, and AVID Center officials.

The award recognizes schools that demonstrate exemplary leadership in advancing AVID’s mission of closing opportunity gaps and ensuring all students have access to the support and resources needed to succeed in college, career and life. AVHS was honored in the student advocacy category. The award was presented to the school’s AVID coordinator, Nicole Kelly and AVHS Principal Manuel Gonzalez.

“This recognition reflects the unwavering commitment of our teachers, counselors, administrators and support staff to ensuring every student has access to opportunities that prepare them for success after high school,” said Arroyo Valley High School Principal Manuel Gonzalez. “We are honored to be recognized by the AVID Center and proud of the incredible achievements of our students.”

AVHS implemented AVID, which stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination, in 2001 and has since built a comprehensive schoolwide culture focused on student advocacy, academic rigor and college readiness. Today, the school serves 388 students in its AVID elective program and has 63 AVID-trained staff members supporting students across campus.

The award recognizes Arroyo Valley’s measurable success in expanding access to rigorous coursework and increasing college readiness outcomes for students. Over the past five years, the school has demonstrated significant growth in the percentage of graduates completing the University of California and California State University A-G course requirements. In the 2023-24 school year, Arroyo Valley surpassed both San Bernardino County and California state averages for A-G completion, a milestone that reflects the school’s intentional efforts to expand postsecondary opportunities for students.

Arroyo Valley has also strengthened its AVID College Readiness System through close collaboration among teachers, counselors and administrators. These efforts include proactive transcript monitoring, master schedule advocacy, targeted family outreach and expanded enrollment in honors and Advanced Placement courses.

As a result, 100 percent of AVID students are currently on track to meet four-year college entrance requirements, while participation in rigorous coursework has increased by an average of 30 to 50 percent across grade levels.

“These results demonstrate the power of student advocacy and the life-changing impact of creating systems that help students realize their full potential,” said Superintendent Mauricio Arellano. “We are incredibly proud of the Arroyo Valley High School AVID team for their dedication to removing barriers, expanding opportunities and ensuring students are prepared to thrive in college, career and beyond.”