DISD students outperform students nationally in FAFSA

Dickinson Independent School District is proud to announce the new 2018-2019 data on the success of last year’s graduating class of students participating in the district’s AVID program – a nationally recognized program that helps students navigate the college application process, and build the academic and soft skills needed to succeed in college and the workforce of the future.

Last year, 91% of Dickinson High School seniors participating in AVID completed a FAFSA application, compared to the national rate of 61%. Likewise, 100% of AVID students applied to a four-year college, and 100% were accepted. Nationally, 81% of high school students aspire to earn a bachelor’s degree yet less than 50% actually enroll at a four-year university.

Dickinson ISD Superintendent Carla Voelkel said, “We are extremely proud of our AVID students and their teachers. 100% of our AVID seniors applied and were accepted to a four-year college, and several of our AVID seniors received multiple acceptance letters from colleges and universities as well as scholarships.  We are grateful for our partnership with AVID, and in DISD, we are committed to providing opportunities for our students that prepare them for college and career success.”

DHS AVID Site Coordinator Kim Williamson added, “The senior class last year worked extremely hard to reach the goal of being the first ever AVID class to have a 100% acceptance rate to a 4-year college. I am very proud of these hardworking students for achieving this incredible accomplishment.”

Dr. Sandy Husk, CEO of AVID and former school superintendent stated in a letter commending the district, “We congratulate Dickinson Independent School District for its demonstrated commitment to ensuring that all students have the opportunity to pursue a postsecondary education. The milestones announced today reflect the Dickinson Independent School District’s holistic approach to college readiness — starting with building a culture of high expectations among teachers and students, and including the delivery of rigorous, student-centric instruction that prepares them for college-level work. We are proud to be part of Dickinson Independent School District’s work to ensure all students can reach their full potential.”

Dickinson ISD is one of over 7,000 K-12 schools and districts across 47 states that partner with AVID to build a safe and open culture, high expectations for teachers and students, and collaboration in all classrooms. To learn more: www.AVID.org.