Academic Programs
AVID, which stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination, is a nonprofit college-readiness program designed to help students develop the skills they need to be successful in college. The program places special emphasis on growing writing, critical thinking, teamwork, organization and reading skills.
School Sites Implementing AVID in ERUSD - North Ranchito Elementary, Rio Vista Elementary, Rivera Elementary, North Park Academy of the Arts, Rivera Middle School, STEAM Academy @ Burke, and El Rancho High School.
The AP program covers a wide range of subjects, including mathematics, science, English, history, and various foreign languages. Participating in AP courses can also enhance a student's college application, as it demonstrates a commitment to academic rigor and readiness for college-level work.
School Sites Implementing AVID in ERUSD - El Rancho High School.
Dual Language Immersion (DLI) is an educational approach that integrates native English speakers and speakers of another language in the same classroom, with the goal of developing proficiency in both languages. In a dual language immersion program, students receive instruction in both languages, and the curriculum is designed to promote bilingualism and biliteracy. The idea is to provide students with the opportunity to become fluent in both languages by learning academic content in both languages. The goal is not only language proficiency but also cultural competence and an appreciation for diversity.
School Sites Implementing Dual Language Immersion - South Ranchito Dual Language Academy and Rivera Middle School.
ERUSD, in partnership with Rio Hondo College, is also proud to offer the Early College Academy. The Rio Hondo College Early College Academy allows high school students to begin earning college credit while they are in high school.
Students can earn units to help fulfill transfer curriculum to the University. Students must apply for the program in order to be admitted into the Early College Academy. Upon completing the Early College Academy, some students will be prepared to go onto a 4-year University or transfer within two years of graduation from High School.
School Sites Implementing the Dual Enrollment Program and the Early College Academy - El Rancho High School
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an internationally recognized educational program that offers a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum for students. The IB program is designed to develop students' intellectual, personal, emotional, and social skills to prepare them for success in a globalized world. The Diploma Program (DP), which is offered in ERUSD, is targeted at students aged 16 to 19. The DP is a two-year curriculum known for its depth and breadth. Students study six subjects, including languages, sciences, mathematics, and the arts, and they also engage in a core consisting of Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). The International Baccalaureate aims to foster international-mindedness, open-mindedness, and a sense of global citizenship among students. It is recognized by universities and educational institutions worldwide and is considered a prestigious qualification for college and university admissions.
School Sites Implementing the IB Diploma Program - El Rancho High School
Project Lead The Way (PLTW) is a nonprofit organization that provides transformative learning experiences for K-12 students and teachers across the United States. The organization is focused on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and aims to inspire and prepare students for careers in these fields.
The PLTW program offers a comprehensive and hands-on approach to learning, with a variety of programs and courses designed to engage students in real-world problem-solving and critical thinking. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including computer science, engineering, biomedical science, and more.
School Sites Implementing PLTW - STEAM Academy @ Burke and El Rancho High School
The VEX Robotics program is an educational initiative that involves the design, construction, and programming of robots for competitive and educational purposes. Participating in the VEX Robotics program typically involves students forming teams, designing and building robots using VEX components, and then competing in events that challenge the robots in various ways. The competitions are held at local, regional, and international levels, providing students with the opportunity to showcase their skills and learn from the experiences.
School Sites with Robotics Teams Competing in VEX Robotics Competitions - North Park Academy of the Arts, Rivera Middle School, STEAM Academy @ Burke, and El Rancho High School.