Seven IUSD 8th graders were celebrated and recognized for academic excellence by the Orange County Department of Education during the 2026 Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) 8th Grade Standout Award Ceremony at Angel Stadium on May 13th.
Bella Lui from Vista Verde School was also among the eight students honored as Angels Scholars, earning a $10,000 scholarship to support her future university education upon graduating high school.
2026 Eighth Grade Standouts
- Alexander Rose, Plaza Vista School
- Anali Heydarian, Lakeside Middle School
- Averie Ahn, Rancho San Joaquin
- Juxi (Bella) Lui, Vista Verde School
- Kim Truong, Venado Middle School
- Losa Osumi, Jeffrey Trail Middle School
- Soffiya Aznizam, South Lake Middle School
These students were nominated by their AVID teachers for their outstanding academic performance and potential for four-year university success. Every honoree received a computer, a medal and a certificate, courtesy of the Angels Baseball Foundation.
IUSD Board Members Lauren Brooks, Jeff Kim, Katie McEwen, Connie Stone and Cyril Yu joined Thai, school-site principals and teachers to celebrate these students for their outstanding accomplishments.
AVID, an elective course offered to students in grades 6-12, is a program dedicated to equipping students with the skills needed for college and career readiness. As a school-wide program, AVID helps students meet the highest educational standards through academic and social support, playing a pivotal role in ensuring each student’s academic success and post-secondary education and career options.
“We are incredibly proud of these students for their academic achievements. They have demonstrated remarkable determination and dedication to their education and community, embodying the spirit of AVID. These young scholars serve as shining examples of what can be achieved through hard work and perseverance,” stated AVID District Director Jenny Thai.
Congratulations to these students for their remarkable achievements.
To learn more about AVID in IUSD, visit the AVID College and Career Readiness webpage.
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