We’re proud to celebrate our high school AVID seniors who were honored at the 2025 AVID Senior Standout Recognition & Scholarship Presentation! Sam Taleghani from Irvine High School and Tanya Jain from San Joaquin High School were recognized by the Orange County Department of Education at the Irvine Barclay Theatre on April 23, 2025, for their resilience, grit and heart that define our AVID program.
Sam Taleghani, Irvine High School
"I started AVID in the 10th grade, which helped me grow from a disorganized person to a better organizer, from a decent writer to a much better one, and also to use tutorials to understand my points of confusion."
- Sam Taleghani
"Sam is a great student with the determination and perseverance to make the most of his education. He has been a model AVID student and an outstanding scholar. Even in the face of significant challenges, Sam continues to push himself with the rigors of AP classes and athletics. Sam has served as an ambassador for our fledgling AVID program, and we are extremely proud of his accomplishments, growth mindset and kindness. There's no doubt Sam will achieve his goals."
- John Valerie, AVID Teacher
Tanya Jain, San Joaquin High School
"AVID has transformed me into a resilient, organized, and goal-oriented individual. It has instilled confidence in my abilities, prepared me for college, and inspired me to empower others through positivity and to support my community."
- Tanya Jain
"Tanya personifies the reason why teachers teach. She checks every box for a great student: work ethic, respect, determination, and high standards, but her excellence goes beyond anything that you could put in a transcript or resume. Over three years in my classes, she’s shown integrity, empathy, and a genuine love of learning—not just for straight As, though she earns those too, but for mastery. Her passion is contagious, inspiring those around her, me included. Tanya isn’t just a remarkable student; she’s a force for good. Simply by being herself, she’s going to change the world."
- Donbi Chung, AVID Teacher
Additionally, Tanya also received a scholarship from the program to assist with higher education financial aid.
AVID is a college prep and career and life readiness elective course designed for students in grades 6-12 to develop the skills and mindset necessary for success in postsecondary education and beyond. AVID empowers students by equipping them with essential strategies for academic, career and life success, such as collaboration, critical thinking, effective communication, organization and time management. AVID's college and career readiness program promotes a college-going culture, preparing students for higher education and challenging coursework like Honors, AP and Dual Enrollment.
To learn more about AVID, visit the AVID College and Career Readiness webpage.