AVID Explorers
Connecting to Culture and Community
Akron North High School
Caitlin Bradley, English Teacher
Dana Starvaggi, ELL & Science Teacher
Marie Cottrill, English Teacher
Wyatt Daulbaugh, History Teacher
At Akron North High School, the AVID Explorers program helps students see themselves in the stories, art, and experiences they learn about every day. Many students do not often see their cultures reflected in school materials or in the community. AVID Explorers creates opportunities that celebrate identity and build confidence in who they are.
Students take part in activities that introduce them to theater, film, books, and visual art that connect with their own backgrounds. They are encouraged to speak about their experiences, share their languages, and learn about leaders who look like them. These activities help students understand that their story matters and that their voices are important.
The project also gives students a chance to learn through hands-on work in their school and neighborhood. They help care for garden projects and learn about sustainability with support from local partners like Akron Honey Company. These experiences build skills, encourage teamwork, and help students see themselves as active members of their community.
AVID Explorers helps students feel seen, valued, and supported. By celebrating culture and creating new connections, the program helps students grow their confidence and discover new possibilities for the future.
Q&A with Caitlin Bradley
"This project was inspired by the amazing students at North! We wanted to celebrate the rich diversity we have and to provide our students with experiences and support that they would not otherwise have access to."
What inspired this project?
Caitlin Bradley: This project was inspired by the amazing students at North! We wanted to celebrate the rich diversity we have and to provide our students with experiences and support that they would not otherwise have access to.
What has been the most exciting or rewarding outcome so far?
CB: It has been exciting to see our students enjoying the various field trips and workshops that have been possible because of this grant. However, the most rewarding outcome so far was the Inaugural North AVID Film Festival that our students put on at the end of the first year (Note: the second annual Film Festival took place in May of 2026). They did such an amazing job planning and running the event. And seeing their work up on the screen, which highlighted their unique identities and stories, was truly magical.
What advice would you give to another educator thinking about applying?
CB: I would advise other educators thinking about applying for an EIG to make use of the support resources and do it! It definitely takes some time and effort to complete the application, but it has been so worth it.
