For the past five years, the Arias family has been building an education at Visions In Education that goes beyond academics.
When they enrolled their children, Elijah and Isaiah, in Visions’ Home School Academy, they were looking for an educational experience that would allow them to be actively involved in their children’s learning while providing the flexibility to support each child’s individual needs, gifts and interests.
“Our family has been enrolled at Visions for the past five years, and it has truly been a blessing for our family,” shared their mom, Amber.
For the Arias family, homeschooling also provides an opportunity to incorporate the values that are important to their family. While using Visions’ curriculum and standards as a foundation, they are able to weave in their own family values, including the importance of good character, faith and serving others.
“We chose Visions because of its flexibility, support, and strong partnership with families.”
That partnership has helped their children grow in ways that reach far beyond the classroom.
The family’s approach to education is rooted in the belief that some of the most meaningful learning happens through real-world experiences.
“We believe children learn best when education is engaging and connected to everyday life.”
Through project-based learning, field trips and entrepreneurship projects, the family incorporates real-world experiences into their children’s education while continuing to meet their academic standards and curriculum goals.
That approach recently inspired Elijah and Isaiah to turn a simple experience with their grandmother into an opportunity to serve others.
When their grandmother was struggling to access a health application to review her lab results, the boys stepped in to help her navigate the technology. What started as helping a family member soon became something much bigger.
“Seeing the smile on her face when she was finally able to access the information she needed made a lasting impact on them.”
That idea became Tech Buddies for Seniors.
Through the project, Elijah and Isaiah provide patient, one-on-one technology support to older adults who need help with smartphones, apps, telehealth appointments, online safety, transportation services and other everyday technology needs.
The project has also given the boys an opportunity to put their education into action through the Mott Million Dollar Challenge, an entrepreneurship challenge that has helped them develop skills in leadership, entrepreneurship, teamwork, problem-solving and public speaking—all while serving their community.
“I am so proud of them for participating in the Mott’s challenge. They have worked so hard. What stands out the most is their excitement throughout the process of creating and presenting their idea. It is infectious when you hear their presentation. I can’t wait to see what they do next,” shared their Visions credentialed teacher, Ms. Janis Zelmer.
Homeschooling has given the Arias family the flexibility to make learning fit naturally into their family’s life. With multiple schedules and activities to balance, organization has become an important part of their routine.
“We use calendars, planners, and weekly goals to stay on track while maintaining flexibility for hands-on learning and family life.”
A key part of that experience has been the relationship they have built with their teacher, Ms. Janis. Throughout their homeschooling journey, Ms. Janis has provided the family with encouragement, guidance and support while collaborating with them to help their children succeed.
“She has been such an encouragement and support to our family throughout our homeschooling journey. We truly love and appreciate her kindness, guidance, and dedication to helping our children succeed.”
The family also takes advantage of the many enrichment opportunities available through Visions. One of their favorites has been Brantley’s Revolution Training and Martial Arts, where their children are currently in their second year of Taekwondo and have earned their green belts.
“It has been a wonderful experience that has helped our children build discipline, confidence, focus, perseverance, and respect while staying active and learning valuable life skills.”
Along with martial arts, the children enjoy hands-on STEM programs, educational workshops and other creative learning opportunities that allow them to explore their interests and discover new talents.
For the Arias family, these experiences are an important part of creating an education that connects learning to the real world.
“We have seen our children grow in confidence, leadership, creativity, communication skills, and a heart for serving others.”
For the Arias family, the flexibility of homeschooling has created space for their children to pursue their passions, explore their interests and find meaningful ways to make a difference.
“Visions has given our children the flexibility to pursue their passions while excelling academically.”
Their experience demonstrates how education can extend beyond traditional classroom walls. With the support of their family, teacher and Visions community, Elijah and Isaiah are not only learning—they are discovering how their skills and passions can be used to help others.
“We are thankful for the role Visions has played in helping our children pursue their passions, serve others, and develop the confidence to make a positive impact in the world around them.”
What are your favorite subjects and why?
Elijah: Science because I really love to do Science experiments.
Isaiah: Math, I like to use different ways to solve problems.
What are some of your favorite things to do? Do you have any hobbies?
Elijah: I like to ride my bike with my friends. My hobbies are basketball, football and taekwondo
Isaiah:I like to play at the park and I like to draw. My hobbies are soccer and taekwondo
What was your favorite part about the Mott Million Dollar Challenge? What did you learn?
Elijah: I made lots of new friends from all over the USA. I learned how important empathy is.
Isaiah: That I got to share our company with lots of new people. It was really cool to fly on a plane to Michigan for my first time.
Anything else you would like to share?
Elijah: We love Visions and have the coolest teacher Janis Zelmer.
Isaiah: We are so happy to be learning through Visions.
