December 2, 2011
Collier County Commissioner Donna Fiala Visits Manatee Middle School

Commissioner Fiala was recently a guest speaker at Manatee Middle School, where she addressed 7th and 8th grade AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) students. The commissioner spoke to 45 students regarding the educational path she traveled – detailing her career, while providing motivational inspiration about the importance of education.

AVID is a college readiness program designed to increase school-wide learning and performance. Students are enrolled in honors classes, as well as the AVID elective, and have a desire to move on to college and a willingness to work hard. The AVID class focuses on organizational and study skills, critical thinking, and motivational activities that give students confidence in reaching their goal to attend college. The curriculum is driven by the WICR method (Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration and Reading). Guest speakers and field trips provide students opportunities to learn the skills needed to succeed in advanced courses, college and within the workforce, as well as showcase various careers available to students.