Goose Creek CISD April 2025

MAKING AN IMPRESSION IMPACT EARLY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL BECOMES FIRST EARLY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL IN THE NATION TO EARN AVID NATIONAL DEMONSTRATION SCHOOL STATUS

IMPACT Early College High School has made history as the first Early College High School in the nation to earn the prestigious AVID National Demonstration School designation. This honor highlights IMPACT’s commitment to student success and college readiness. AVID National Demonstration Schools serve as exemplary models for the AVID College Readiness System, showcasing best practices in instruction, leadership, and systems that help students develop the skills necessary for success in higher education and beyond. “AVID is in our culture at IMPACT. We have high expectations for students, we believe in them, and we support them,” said Laura Reyes, Principal of IMPACT Early College High School. “We want people to understand that our student makeup is the same as every other campus in the district. As an IMPACT family, we are breaking barriers and creating generational change.” Goose Creek CISD Superintendent Dr. Randal O’Brien also praised the school’s accomplishment: “This distinction is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our educators and students. AVID provides a strong foundation that helps students develop the skills and confidence needed to excel in both high school and college. IMPACT has set a remarkable example for schools across the

country, and we couldn’t be prouder.” Sally Wagner, AVID Regional Director and Demonstration Coach, commended the campus for its exceptional impact. “I don’t think you know how special this campus is. This campus is magic. I am on campuses every day all over the Houston area. You are changing the lives of students in Goose Creek CISD.” The AVID program emphasizes skills such as critical thinking, organization, and inquiry-based learning. For students like Kayla Grant, an 11th grader at IMPACT, the effect of AVID strategies has been life-changing. “Focused note-taking has been a game-changer for me. Being able to look back and use the notes I have taken in class is invaluable,” said Grant. “Calculus is a beast in and of itself; college moves so fast, and everything builds on the previous concept. Having great notes has changed my life and made me successful. I will use focused notes for the rest of my life.” IMPACT Early College High School’s distinction as an AVID National Demonstration School will allow it to serve as a model for schools across the country, sharing best practices and inspiring others to implement AVID’s proven strategies.