AVID revs up

As motivational speaker Jimmy Cabrera goofily mocked thug idiosyncrasies in a business suit Tuesday morning, more than 600 ECISD Advancement Via Individual Determination students laughed at the kickoff of this year's AVID program at the University of Texas Permian Basin gym.

Cabrera got the students geared up for college by appealing to monetary interests.

"People will pay you for what you know," Cabrera said.

Cabrera revved up the students when he handed Bonham freshman, Krystalle Pinson two $5 bills.

His message to students - to have confidence, a good attitude and get an education and financial success will follow.

Cabrera said he loves the AVID program because there is discipline and challenges that can teach students to never give up.

"It can get tough, but hang in there," he said.

UTPB President David Watts gave an introduction to the program with a monetary factoid.

"High school graduates make a million less than college graduates," Watts said.

Students from Crockett, Ector, Bonham, Hood and Bowie Junior High cheered throughout the 80-minute program.

"I like him," Bowie eighth-grader Elena Onondez said. She said the presentation was interesting and understandable.

Diane Mata, AVID coordinator, said she thought the program went exceptionally well and engaged all of the students. There was a lot of participation.

"I think it is touching something close to their hearts," Mata said.

Watts said he hopes students take from the program that college can be a reality for them.