Special Programs

Expanding Visions (E.V.)

Gabrielle Boccher

Expanding Visions is an exciting program for all seventh grade students at Luther Jackson. Expanding Visions, developed by Exxon Mobil Corporation and Fairfax County Public Schools, is an integral part of Luther Jackson. Through the support and involvement of the business community, students have the opportunity to see the practical applications of the concepts learned in math and science classes, and how these concepts and skills are used in a variety of careers. Some of the companies participating in Expanding Visions include Exxon Mobil Corporation, Dewberry, and Inova Health Systems.

E.V. program components include:

• Classroom presentations developed by volunteers from participating companies and seventh grade teachers. Classroom presentations are "hands on" problem solving activities for the students which demonstrate the practical applications of math and science concepts.
• Tutoring in the areas of math and science with volunteers from Exxon Mobil Corporation.
• Field trips to participating businesses or to explore the math, science, and technology around us.
• "Olympiad", the program's culminating activity in which students solve academic challenges. "Olympiad" activities are judged by teachers and volunteers.

Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID)

Nathalie Coyle

"The mission of AVID is to ensure that all students, especially students in the middle with academic potential, will succeed in a rigorous curriculum, enter mainstream activities of the school, increase their enrollment in four-year colleges, and become educated and responsible participants and leaders in a democratic society." The word AVID actually represents the philosophy of Achievement Via Individual Determination. The class itself focuses on providing specific study skills, tutoring in academic courses, and motivational activities for students. AVID provides both academic and social support for its students.