Josiah Cid Rodriguez

 

Level 8, Orchard Park Academy

 

Josiah Cid Rodriguez is a transformed student who touts the benefits of the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) prep program as the keys to his academic success. Having grown up as a child in Boulder and then moving to Orchard Park Academy/Skyline Vista when he was in 5th grade, Josiah didn’t used to take his studies seriously…until AVID.

 

Josiah offers advice to other students who are thinking about joining AVID. “First you can learn about colleges and how to apply. It’s not going to be easy right away. You need time and patience, and the other benefit is to be organized.” He also talks about the qualities you need to be a good learner, “You have to have a growth mindset. If you don’t know how to, find the right person to talk to to help you figure it out. You need grit. And you need to be a student leader including helping others, checking up on others, responsibility, respect, honesty, integrity, kindness, empathy, and organization.”

 

AVID and Literacy Teacher Jennifer Torrez writes, “I have known Josiah since 6th grade. He joined my AVID elective class last year in 7th grade, and we established many goals for him to reach. One of his goals was to become an AVID student leader at the AVID Summer Institute. Every time Josiah was discouraged or off track, I would remind him of his goal. I still remember sitting across from him as he practiced his speech for his admission application. He made it and had such an impact this year at the AVID Summer Institute. Josiah has the true grit to overcome any obstacle in his way, and I have seen him do just that over the last two years. I'm so lucky to be a part of his journey and to watch him conquer his mountains. I can't wait to see him become a professional soccer player and play in the FIFA World Cup. I hope to be on the sidelines with his family, cheering him on! If he changes his mind when he gets older, I will still be there as he crosses any finish line he sets his mind to. Ask him how far he has come—his story will bring you to tears."

 

Plans after graduation: When I graduate high school, I want to apply to Mesa University to play soccer and become a PE teacher someday.

 

Favorite Food: Spaghetti

 

Favorite Athlete/Sport/Team: Neymar and Sergio Ramos

 

What music or podcast are you listening to now: Intro by Junior H

 

My favorite thing to do in my free time: Homework and missing assignments

 

Favorite Animal: Lion

 

What do you like about being part of OPA: Being at OPA in the AVID program is all about helping each other learn.

 

Superpower I wish I had: Invisibility

 

What has WPS meant to you: At WPS, it feels good, because you can find other people who respect you. And WPS helps you academically.

 

Best school memory: During AVID class last year, we made gingerbread houses.

 

The teacher or coach who has inspired me the most: Ms. Torres. She has been the one who has helped me figure out how to be organized and have a growth mindset. Also, I want to honor my great-grandma who recently passed away. “Chipa” and I were always close. She was fun and funny and had a great sense of humor. We knew how to laugh together and help each other out.