FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TAMPA, FL (April 10, 2026) — Rampello K‑8 Downtown Partnership School has earned national recognition as the first elementary school in the United States to achieve AVID National Demonstration School status, marking a historic milestone for Hillsborough County Schools and public education nationwide.
Rampello K‑8 was previously designated an AVID National Demonstration School for its secondary grades. With this newest distinction, the school has now successfully completed the rigorous national validation process for both elementary and secondary levels, becoming the first school ever to earn AVID National Demonstration status spanning kindergarten through eighth grade.
AVID—Advancement Via Individual Determination—is a college and career readiness framework implemented across Hillsborough County Schools to support students in developing strong academic skills, organization, and confidence. While many schools offer AVID strategies, only a small number nationally earn Demonstration School status, which recognizes campuses that embed AVID schoolwide through daily instruction, culture, and systems of support.
As an AVID National Demonstration School for grades K–8, Rampello K‑8 now serves as a learning center for educators across the country, welcoming teachers and school leaders to observe high-quality instruction firsthand. Visitors experience the school’s consistent implementation of AVID strategies and structures, as well as its continued progress toward becoming a High Reliability School aligned with the district’s instructional priorities.
The national designation follows a comprehensive validation process that included multiple visits from out-of-state AVID evaluators. Validators confirmed that AVID is fully integrated into Rampello K‑8’s instructional practices, that students are highly engaged, and that the school fosters a strong college- and career-going culture beginning in elementary grades.
“Rampello K‑8’s national recognition reflects what’s possible when strong teaching practices are paired with the belief that each student can learn at high levels,” said Superintendent Van Ayres. “This distinction highlights the accelerated academic opportunities we provide families in Hillsborough County Schools—from the earliest grades through middle school—while preparing students with the skills, confidence, and support they need for long-term success. We are extremely proud of the educators and leaders at Rampello K‑8 for earning this honor for our district and for setting a national example of what high-quality instruction can look like.”
To learn more about AVID and other accelerated programs at HCPS, visit Accelerated Programs | Hillsborough County Public Schools.