AVID, Advancement Via Individual Determination, is a pre-collegiate program designed to increase student performance and college eligibility among traditionally under-served student populations. AVID teaches students strategies for academic success, such as Cornell note-taking, Socratic Seminar, and WICR (Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, and Reading) strategies and helps students realize their full potential.

Additionally, trained tutors work with the AVID students at least twice a week to help students better understand and master concepts being taught in the classroom. It is through tutoring and proven teaching and learning strategies that students discover their individual determination which enables them to pursue and succeed in higher education.

Because of the proven success of the AVID program and numerous dedicated students, educators, and supporters, the AVID program has grown to nearly 2,000 middle schools and high schools—serving over 100,000 students in 30 states and 16 countries.

Locally, Paso Robles High School's AVID program is part of AVID Region VIII, which encompasses San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Kern, and Ventura Counties and is distinguished as an AVID National Demonstration School.