Watkins Middle School has been selected as a National Demonstration Site for Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), a fourth- through 12th-grade system that has turned thousands of underperforming students into confident, college-going scholars.

Watkins, which joins approximately 117 other expected AVID National Demonstration Sites, was selected through an application process, screening and review that included a site visit. Adopted by more than 4,400 elementary, middle and high schools in 45 states, Washington, D.C. and 16 countries and U.S. territories, AVID serves more than 400,000 students.

Watkins was commended for its AVID site recognition during the formal Board of Trustees meeting on Monday, March 8.

“The Board recognition of our AVID program is a tremendous honor for the Watkins family,” said Watkins principal José Martinez. “Our faculty, staff and community know what a life-changing program this is for our students and it is special to know the entire CFISD community recognizes it as well.

“This recognition also serves to spotlight the tremendous work Debbie Allen, Gemma Morales-Jarquin, Diana Lewis, Gloria Cooper, Patrick Briggs and all the other past and present Watkins faculty and staff members have done to keep this program going strong in our community for the past 11 years. Our AVID program would not have been here without their tireless and committed effort.”