AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a college-readiness program designed to prepare middle and high school students for success in higher education.  It emphasizes academic rigor, organization, and critical thinking skills to equip students for college enrollment and beyond. Research indicates that participation in AVID is associated with increased college readiness and graduation rates, especially among diverse student populations.

Ms. Ijeoma Mbaezue is a passionate educator and visionary leader who brings both depth and innovation to the classroom. As the AVID Coordinator at Cowan Road Middle School, Ms. Mbaezue has completely revitalized the program—elevating it to a standard of excellence and purpose. Under her leadership, AVID has become a powerful force for cultivating student agency, academic rigor, and college readiness, inspiring students to see themselves as leaders in their own learning journey.

A firm believer that “one of the most powerful impacts you can have as a leader is creating other leaders,” Ms. Mbaezue has dedicated her career to helping students uncover and develop their gifts, talents, and voices. With a background in high school education and a commitment to equity, she empowers scholars to think critically, dream boldly, and achieve with intention.

Ms. Mbaezue is a proud graduate of American University’s School of International Service, where she earned a Master of Arts in Social Enterprise with a concentration in International Development. Her academic foundation in social innovation fuels her belief that education can and should be a catalyst for solving systemic challenges and igniting change. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Entrepreneurship from Mercer University, which further shapes her approach to designing meaningful, student-centered learning experiences.

A lifelong learner herself, Ms. Mbaezue has positioned the CRMS AVID program as a model of possibility, purpose, and progress. She remains committed to equipping the next generation of leaders to thrive in school, in life, and in service to their communities and the world.