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Author: Greenwich Alliance

AVID Summer Institute propels my teaching career!

Written on . Posted in College & Career.

by Cathy Byrne

Attending the AVID Summer Institute in San Diego was an impactful professional development experience that will shape my teaching at Hamilton Avenue School.

One of my biggest takeaways was the importance of teaching students how to think, not just what to think. By combining content knowledge with critical thinking, problem-solving, discussion, and collaboration, students become more engaged and take greater ownership of their learning.

I also strengthened my understanding of AVID’s Critical Reading Process, including strategies that build comprehension, academic vocabulary, and confidence with challenging texts. These tools can help make rigorous content more accessible to all learners.

I look forward to bringing these AVID strategies into my classroom to create engaging, student-centered learning experiences that foster curiosity, independence, and lifelong learning.

I’m Alyssa Cacciotti – the Greenwich Alliance Is Part of My Future

Written on . Posted in College & Career.

Hi! My name is Alyssa Cacciotti, and I am a 21-year-old Criminal Justice student at CT State University. I am about to earn my associate degree and hope to become a police officer.

As a first-generation college student, AVID gave me the confidence, skills, and support to pursue higher education. I joined AVID in sixth grade and remained in the program through high school.

The Greenwich Alliance’s support continued after graduation. The Alliance helped me navigate college applications, manage finances, find scholarships, and prepare for college. I also received a free MacBook and scholarships each semester to help fund my education.

This summer, I interned with a local police department while completing my college courses. The experience gave me valuable insight into policing and strengthened my commitment to this career. I am where I am today because of the foundation AVID and the Greenwich Alliance helped me build.