Photo by Richard Hurd
East High School Counselor Honored with Inaugural AVID Global Achievement Award
MADISON, Wis.—Sarah Elmore of the Madison Metropolitan School District’s (MMSD) East High School has been selected as an inaugural recipient of AVID’s Global Achievement Award – Counselor of the Year, a national honor recognizing educators who exemplify AVID’s mission of believing in students and preparing them for college, career and life.
As East High’s AVID counselor, Elmore blends a global perspective with deep care for students. Her background as both a teacher and counselor allows her to support students holistically, helping them build confidence, develop strong academic habits and navigate their paths to graduation and beyond.
“Sarah is an extraordinary advocate for students,” said Patrice Haste, East High School principal. “She believes in their potential, pushes them to challenge themselves and celebrates every step of their growth. Her impact on our school community is tremendous, and we are incredibly proud to see her recognized at the national level.”
At East, Elmore creates supportive structures to help students succeed in rigorous courses and prepare for college and career success.
“Sarah’s work shows exactly why AVID matters,” said Mary Jankovich, MMSD executive director of college, career and community readiness. “She helps students build the skills, confidence and vision they need for life after high school, and she does it with such heart. This award reflects the difference she makes every day.”
AVID, short for Advancement Via Individual Determination, is a college and career readiness system used in school districts across the country. The program provides students with academic support, structured skill-building and a strong network of adult advocates, helping them succeed in advanced coursework and prepare for postsecondary opportunities.
Elmore was honored Dec. 11 during AVID’s Global Achievement Awards ceremony at the AVID National Conference in San Diego. Launched in celebration of AVID’s 45th anniversary, the awards highlight educators who turn high expectations into meaningful outcomes and who consistently help students see what is possible for their futures. Elmore’s recognition places East High and MMSD among the first recipients of AVID’s new Global Achievement Awards, celebrating educators who demonstrate unwavering belief in students and act on that belief in transformative ways.
For more information about AVID in MMSD, please visit the district’s website.
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About the Madison Metropolitan School District
The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is the second-largest school district in Wisconsin, serving more than 25,000 students across 52 schools. The district’s vision is that every school will be a thriving school that prepares every student to graduate ready for college, career and community. With more than 6,000 teachers and staff, MMSD is committed to ensuring the district’s goals and core values are held at the center of its efforts, so students can learn, belong and thrive. For more information, visit mmsd.org.