Riverside Unified School Named First AVID National Demonstration Elementary School in Riverside County

Harrison Elementary School became the first elementary school in Riverside County to be named an Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) National Demonstration School. This honor recognizes Harrison for providing students with focused academic excellence, rigorous instruction, and a commitment to college and career readiness.

AVID Riverside County announced that Harrison Elementary School achieved National Demonstration School status following a successful validation site that occurred in early May. Riverside Unified School District (RUSD) is now home to five National Demonstration Schools, including Amelia Earhart Middle School, Sierra Middle School, John W. North High School, and Ramona High School. 

“This recognition reflects the incredible dedication, collaboration, and heart of our entire school community,” Harrison Elementary School Principal Jessica Roe said. “Being named the first elementary school in Riverside County to earn this honor is a source of tremendous pride and speaks to our shared commitment to creating exceptional opportunities and outcomes for students. It highlights the innovative work happening at our school each day and the collective belief that all students can thrive at high levels.”

As a National Demonstration School, Harrison Elementary will now serve as a learning model for educators and schools seeking to deepen their own implementation of AVID strategies by hosting visitors and sharing best practices.

“Harrison Elementary School has built a culture rooted in belonging, high expectations, and a shared belief in every scholar’s potential,” RUSD Superintendent Dr. Sonia Llamas said. “Achievements like these are years in the making and take an extraordinary lift from the school’s educators, staff, students, and families." 

AVID aims to close the opportunity gap by preparing all students for college and career readiness in a global society. Harrison Elementary’s AVID program helps students develop essential academic habits, including organization, study skills, communication, and self-advocacy, in age-appropriate and challenging ways that prepare them for future success. 

At the elementary level, AVID supports schools in building strong academic foundations by embedding strategies that promote writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization, and reading. Students are encouraged to set goals, take ownership of their learning, and develop the confidence needed to succeed in more advanced academic settings.

“Becoming the first elementary school in Riverside County to earn this distinction is an incredible accomplishment for Harrison Elementary and a proud moment for Riverside Unified,” Board President Dr. Noemi Hernandez Alexander said. “Programs like AVID help students build the habits and skills that translate into college and career readiness.”