While many school hallways are quiet during the month of July, Haltom High has been showcasing how Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is preparing Birdville ISD students for success in school, college and future careers.

As BISD’s National Demonstration AVID campus, Haltom has spent the summer highlighting the lasting impact the program has on students both inside and outside the classroom. In June, Haltom students Anthoni Villa and Israel Soto were selected as 2026 AVID Student Leaders for the AVID Dallas Summer Institute, where they shared their experiences in AVID, discussed their future goals and collaborated with student leaders from across the region.

And on Tuesday, July 14, current AVID students and alumni continued that story by hosting a program presentation featuring student panels and program data that demonstrates how AVID builds confidence, strengthens organizational and study skills, and prepares students for success long after graduation. Among the alumni who participated were a DFW Airport concessions business owner, a Lockheed Martin software engineer and Birdville ISD educators who returned to serve the district after graduating from college.

AVID Implementation Strategist Ketra Robinson also shared data highlighting the program's continued growth across Birdville ISD and its role in preparing students for college, careers and life beyond high school.

"As students grow toward college or career pathways, AVID really sets them up with a strong foundation to be successful," Robinson said.

Anthoni, who has participated in AVID since attending Haltom Middle School, said the program has helped him become a stronger public speaker, improve his note-taking skills and develop better organizational habits. Other students shared how AVID gave them the confidence to ask questions, advocate for themselves and take ownership of their academic journey.

More than 800 Birdville ISD students participated in AVID during the 2025–26 school year, with the program continuing to expand across elementary, middle and high school campuses. Families interested in learning more about AVID can contact their campus counselor for information about participation opportunities.

Click here to see more photos from the presentation!