The Yuma Union High School District has been awarded a federal grant that is aimed to increase the number of students who successfully complete advanced placement courses, according to district officials.
 
The U.S. Department of Education informed YUHSD it will receive $2.5 million over the next three years. There was $12.4 million available nationwide through the Advanced Placement Incentive Program, according to a news release.
 
The grant was written in cooperation with three elementary school districts: Crane, District 1 and Somerton. YUHSD applied for the grant in partnership with the elementary schools and will disburse the available funds. The implementation of the accelerated course will begin in the 2009-10 academic year.
 
Key aspects of the program include implementing the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program schoolwide in five high schools and eight middle schools. It will also provide advanced online courses in subjects not usually available in local schools.