By Carol Wyatt
CHIPLEY – Chipley’s Advancement via Individual Determination (AVID) program helped connect local high school students with vocational, professional, and other educational resources on Thursday, April 22, when Chipley High School hosted College and Career Day.
AVID elective teachers Tracey Dudley and Lenora Henderson said the event reflects the latest efforts to encourage college and career readiness and success.
“This event is important because we need students to learn early on what they want to go to school for so that we can get them on the right path,” said Dudley. “We want to give them the tools to succeed.”
Henderson added the goal doesnÂ’t stop at getting students into the college or career of their choice.
“We don’t just want to get them there,” said Henderson. “We want to keep them there, and we want for them to be successful.”
ThursdayÂ’s event featured information from speakers representing a variety of career paths, including instructors from Florida Panhandle Technical College and a military panel of representatives from all branches of the U.S. Armed Services. Interim Guidance Counselor Ciara Russ was also on hand to conduct graduation checks, ensuring students were on track with their instructional credits and discussing plans for future courses at the high school, as well as dual enrollment opportunities.
CHS AVID students begin working with Dudley in the ninth and tenth grades to identify what academic support is needed to achieve their desired career goals. Dudley helps students decide which classes are best for them to enroll in for their junior and senior years.
Henderson works with juniors and seniors to map out their college plan, whether it be to attend a four-year program at a traditional college or to receive certification through Career Technical Education (CTE).
“Students write their college entrance essays and resumes in the 11th grade, and it all goes into their packets so that by time they’re in the 12th grade, they’re ready to apply for scholarships and have built-in class time to work on their education goals.”
Sophomore Angel Canipe, now in her third year of AVID membership, says the program has made all the difference as she looks to the future.
“AVID really opened my eyes to other opportunities,” said Canipe. “I see a lot more options are open to me, and I have so many resources. I wouldn’t be where I am today or even who I am today without the love and support that we create here in AVID.”
In addition to identifying career and educational pathways and providing resources, AVID also arranges college campus tours and connects students with local professionals to allow for job shadowing.
For more information about the AVID program, contact Chipley High School at 850-638-6100.
Staff Report 
Hannah Collins