Entries by Ellie Fazzi

Summer Graduation 2026 Information Available Now!

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White and yellow text that says "Grad Info Available Now!" with the Visions logo underneath, next to a photo of two smiling graduations in front of a Visions backdrop holding graduation props.

Summer Graduation 2026 Information Available Now!

On July 6, 2026, Visions mailed all potential grads a grad-letter with graduation information, including ticket information, a graduation checklist, and Graduation FAQs. To make accessing this information easier, we have created a Graduation Information page to act as an online reference for all your graduation questions.

Graduates are responsible for reading and understanding this information prior to Grad Checkout and Graduation.

Grad Checkout Coming in August!

We have scheduled a Summer Grad Checkout for students to get cleared for graduation, get caps and gowns, pick up tickets, and return outstanding materials. All graduates must complete a grad checkout to be eligible to walk in our ceremony.

PDF Link:

2026 Summer Graduation Information Packet

Save the Date: Summer Graduation is August 13, 2026!

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A Visions summer graduate in a blue cap and gown poses with her family for a group photo.

Save the Date: Summer Graduation is August 13, 2026!

Visions is happy to announce that we will be holding a 2026 Summer Graduation!

Date: August 13, 2026
Time: 5:30 p.m. 
Location: Citrus Heights Community Center (6300 Fountain Square Dr, Citrus Heights, CA 95621)

All potential summer graduation candidates will receive a letter in the mail in the coming weeks with important details and procedures for graduate checkout and the graduation ceremony. In the meantime, please refer to the information below to help you prepare.

  • Students Attending Community College: Must submit a letter from their instructor or an official transcript to their Visions counselor by August 12, 2026 showing that the student is on track to pass their community college course to participate in the commencement ceremony.
  • Graduate Checkout: Attend graduate checkout:
    • Date: August 6, 2026 from 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    • Location: Visions’ main office (11931 Foundation Place in Gold River)
    • More information to come!
  • Graduation Day: All candidates planning to participate in the ceremony should arrive at Citrus Heights Community Center no later than 4:15 p.m. on August 13, 2026 for a MANDATORY rehearsal. The ceremony will begin immediately after the rehearsal; therefore, leave all personal items (purses/bags, flowers, gifts, and valuables) with friends or relatives for safekeeping until after the ceremony.
  • Doors will be opened to audience members at 5:00 p.m. 
  • Admission to the ceremony is by ticket only. Please be advised that each participant will be allowed 10 guests. Tickets will be distributed during graduate checkout.

Questions?

For additional questions, please send an email to graduation@viedu.org.

Summer Graduation Speakers Wanted! Submit Your Audition by July 20, 2026

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A Visions graduate stands at a podium in her cap and gown and delivers a speech at Visions' graduation ceremony.

Summer Graduation Speakers Wanted! Submit Your Audition by
July 20, 2026

Summer Graduation is August 13 and we’re looking for graduates who would like to give a speech during the ceremony!

If you’re interested in speaking at our summer commencement ceremony, please complete and submit this form by July 20, 2026. 

Be sure to include:

  • A written draft of your speech (2 to 2½ minutes in length — a rough draft is fine!)
  • A video recording of you delivering your speech

Our grad team will review your submissions and selected speakers will be notified during the week of July 20, 2026.

We look forward to hearing your voice and celebrating your achievements! Please reach out to graduation@viedu.org with any questions.

Congratulations to Our Steve Phelps Scholarship Winners!

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American flag blowing in the wind.

Congratulations to Our Steve Phelps Scholarship Winners!

The Steve Phelps American Dream Scholarship honors the legacy of Steve Phelps, a dedicated and compassionate Visions teacher who served students from 2003 until his passing in 2008. Having overcome his own academic challenges with the support of a mentor teacher, Steve understood the transformative power of encouragement, perseverance, and educational opportunity. A strong advocate for the community college system as a pathway to higher education and career success, he established this scholarship to recognize students who demonstrated initiative by taking community college courses while in high school and continuing their educational journey through community college. This scholarship celebrates Steve’s belief that with support, determination, and access to opportunity, every student can achieve the American Dream. 

We are pleased to honor this year’s recipients of the award: Dulce V.N. and Ariana A. We wish them well in their future!

Visions Students Travel to Boston for National Future Bound Competition

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Visions In Education and El Camino Fundamental High School students post for a photo with a Junior Achievement Future Bound banner in the airport.

Visions Students Travel to Boston for National Future Bound Competition

A group of students from Visions’ Future Business Leaders Club recently took their skills to the national stage as they traveled to Boston to participate in Future Bound 2026 by Junior Achievement.

Students Lyrik R., Yassmine S., Olenka P., Evalet B., Ayzik P., Axel P., and Daniel H. joined peers from across the country to compete in Future Bound, an event that challenges some of the nation’s most promising young leaders to showcase their talents, share innovative ideas, and demonstrate the skills they had developed through entrepreneurship, financial literacy, career readiness, and leadership programs.

Representing Loop Studios, a student-created business designed to help beginners learn the art of crochet, Lyrik, Yassmine, and Olenka showcased their creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, and passion for teaching at the exposition. Throughout the event, they engaged with peers, staff, and community members, answering questions about their business and even inviting attendees to participate in a crochet challenge with Yassmine. While they did not place in the top three, they represented Loop Studios and Visions with professionalism, enthusiasm, and confidence.

“My team spent a lot of time working together, both in person and online, to create our booth and pitch. In the preparation stage, we leaned on our FBL advisers a lot, who helped with direction and purpose,” said Lyrik. “While the process took compromise and perseverance, focusing on our shared goals helped us come together and put our best efforts forward.”

Another group of Visionaries competed against 14 teams from across the nation in the interactive business simulation game JA Titan. The strategic entrepreneurship competition challenges students to run a virtual cell phone company, making critical decisions in four key areas: Research & Development, Production, Marketing, and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Success requires balancing innovation, strategy, and financial performance to maximize revenue and outperform competing teams.

“Communication in the team was really important to both develop strategies and motivate each other whenever there was doubt. Had we not learned to talk things out and work together, we would have had a much harder time,” said Ayzik P.

After earning an impressive third-place finish last year, our team returned ready to take on the challenge. Facing a highly competitive field, they ultimately finished outside the top three, but demonstrated strong teamwork, problem-solving skills, and business insight throughout the event.

Competition, Connection & Culture

Throughout the school year, our Future Business Leaders Club students distinguished themselves through their hard work, creativity, and determination. Their opportunity to represent both the Sacramento region and Visions In Education on the national stage reflect their commitment to excellence, leadership, and innovation, while highlighting the bright futures they are already beginning to build.

“I am so proud of all of the students in our club. They took a fun club to a whole new level. They are learning to solve real world problems through innovation and still focus on serving the communities around them,” said Andrea Leuschen, Independent Study Academy Vice Principal and Future Business Leaders Club advisor. “A parent of a former student told me at a Home School 8th Grade Promotion ceremony that her daughter enjoyed participating in the Stock Market Challenge, saying ‘She took a class after graduating about trading and investing and is now an investor with a list of companies. She studies the company’s portfolio before she buys. She would never have started this if it was not for the club.’ This is the reason this club exists and I hope more students will take the time to explore the club next year.”

During their five days in Boston, the students had the opportunity to sightsee, explore, compete, collaborate, and connect with peers from across the United States while gaining valuable experiences that supported their educational and career goals. Their participation highlighted the strength of youth leadership programs in the Sacramento region and showcased the talent and potential of local students on a national stage.






“The opportunity to compete at Future Bound has been such an incredible opportunity for our students. It has elevated their high school experience to another level where they practiced and strengthened real world skills through teamwork and collaboration. The students, Lyrik Yassmine, and Olenka, participated in the Company of the Year Competition where they presented their business idea to a panel of judges from nationally recognized companies. The students successfully demonstrated their knowledge of entrepreneurship, marketing, finance and social responsibility. They learned so much about the importance of problem solving and communication skills and were able to form friendships with students from all over the country through networking events,” shared Debora Sanders, Independent Study Academy teacher and Future Business Leaders Club advisor. “I am so proud of them and I witnessed incredible growth and maturity during this experience and look forward to continuing to grow this club and expanding our reach to the Visions student community and the Sacramento area!”

Curious about the Future Business Leaders Club? Check out our other features to learn more about the students, projects, and experiences that make the program so impactful.

Happy 1 Year Anniversary in Gold River! Celebrating One Year in Our New Building

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A picture from the parking lot of the Visions In Education main office.

Happy 1 Year Anniversary in Gold River! Celebrating One Year in Our New Building

Last June, Visions In Education officially moved our headquarters from Carmichael to our new home in Gold River – an exciting milestone that reflected years of growth, planning, and investment in our future.

What began as an idea in 2017 became a reality through the dedication and vision of countless team members. From purchasing the property and overseeing extensive renovations to coordinating the move itself, our leadership, facilities, and move teams guided every step of the process. Their work continues today through ongoing improvements, including the addition of an outdoor awning and enhancements to the Instructional Services area. Each project has been driven by a shared goal: creating a welcoming, functional space that better serves our staff, students, and families.

Built for More

Over the past year, this building has quickly become more than just an office – it has become a hub for connection, collaboration, and community. We’ve hosted Soup Days, barbecues, training sessions, professional development events, student meetings, CPR trainings, mentorship workshops, a legislative open house, a blood drive, Senior Sunrise and Senior Sunset events, our first-ever ribbon-cutting ceremony, and so much more. The new headquarters has given us the space, resources, and flexibility to come together in meaningful ways while supporting the continued growth of our organization.

As we celebrate one year in Gold River, we’re proud of how far we’ve come and excited about what’s ahead. This building stands as a symbol of Visions’ success, our commitment to growth, and the strong community we continue to build together.












#TBT

Explore some of the highlights from our move and new building below!

A Season of Celebration: Recapping Learning Period 10 Events

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A photo collage of students at a variety of school events.

A Season of Celebration: Recapping Learning Period 10 Events

As the school year came to a close, Visions In Education students and families gathered to celebrate a season filled with achievement, connection, and memorable milestones.

In our Home School program, students enjoyed energetic Sports Days that brought them together for friendly competition, outdoor fun, and community building. These events offered a chance to celebrate teamwork and create lasting memories. The excitement continued as promoting students were honored during our Kindergarten and 8th Grade Promotion Ceremonies, recognizing their hard work and marking an important transition into their next academic journeys.

Online Middle School students closed out the year in style with an End-of-Year Sock Hop Dance. With music, dancing, and plenty of retro flair, the event provided a fun and festive opportunity for students to celebrate their accomplishments and friendships.

For our high school students, the season culminated in one of the best events of the year – graduation (and before that – our first ever Senior Sunset!). Families, friends, and staff came together to recognize the dedication and perseverance of the Class of 2026. Once again, it was a meaningful celebration of achievements, new beginnings, and the bright futures ahead.

From lively celebrations to significant milestones, these end-of-year events captured the spirit of community and accomplishment that defines Visions In Education. Thank you to our students, families, and staff for making this an incredible year – we can’t wait to create even more memorable moments together in 2026–27!










Three Ceremonies, Two Days, One Unforgettable Grad Season: Honoring the Class of 2026

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A group of three Visions graduates pose for a photo in front of Memorial Auditorium holding their diplomas.

Three Ceremonies, Two Days, One Unforgettable Grad Season: Honoring the Class of 2026





See all the photos from the big day!

On June 2 and 3, we had the honor of celebrating one of our biggest graduation seasons ever with the Class of 2026. Families, friends, and staff gathered at Memorial Auditorium in Sacramento to honor the achievements, resilience, and future aspirations of each of our graduates, and with three ceremonies over the span of two days, there was no shortage of celebration.

Speakers, Singers & Student Voice

Each of the ceremonies opened with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Board of Directors Member Clark Shueh, followed by the Star-Spangled Banner, performed by Jessica Kravchenko. Dr. Steve Olmos, Superintendent/Executive Director, welcomed graduates and guests and reflected on the accomplishments of the Class of 2026.

Throughout each of the ceremonies, student voices took center stage. Inspiring speeches were delivered by Ellie Cheban, Saanvi Raniga, Anna’Licia Rendel, Camila Romo Trujillo, and Jessica Kravchenko, each sharing personal stories, words of encouragement, and reflections on their educational journeys.

Guests were also treated to musical performances from a few of our talented students, including a vocal performance of Arditi’s “Il Bacio” by Sofiia Dorozhkina, a beautiful interpretation of Lorde’s “Ribs” by violinist Faith Villafana-Smith, an incredible guitar rendition of Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide” by Osiris Osada, and two pianists – Belia Stevenson performing “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” by Duke Elligton and Ella Fitzgerald, and Ezra Price performing “Forever Lost” by Myth & Roid.





Watch all the speeches and performances!

Following the student speeches and musical performances, the certification of the Class of 2026 commenced. One by one, graduates crossed the stage before their families and friends, marking the culmination of their hard work and officially becoming high school graduates.

For over a quarter-century, Visions In Education has supported its communities by providing personalized educational experiences. We are deeply grateful to the families who have entrusted us with their students’ academic journeys. Whether students seek additional time to explore their passions, require flexible scheduling to accommodate their unique circumstances, or need enhanced academic support, Visions continues to cultivate an environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential.




















The Next Chapter Begins

The Class of 2026 is embarking on a wide range of exciting post-graduation paths. A significant number of graduates will continue their education at community colleges and universities across California and beyond, including American River College, Sierra College, UC Davis, UCLA, San Diego State, and many other community colleges and four-year institutions.

Students will pursue fields as diverse as nursing, psychology, architecture, culinary arts, kinesiology, behavioral economics, digital media, and marine biology. Others are entering trade and technical programs in fields like cosmetology, electrical work, welding, automotive, and pharmacy technology.

Several graduates plan to begin careers immediately in industries such as healthcare, education, real estate, technology, hospitality, aviation, and skilled trades, while others will participate in apprenticeships, take gap years, travel, serve in family businesses, or join the military. Together, these plans reflect the ambition, determination, and diverse talents of the Class of 2026 as they take their next steps toward bright and promising futures. 

Get Your Class of 2026 Merch!

Commemorate this milestone with official graduation merchandise and school spirit gear available through our Spirit Store! From shirts to hats to bags, we have everything you need to celebrate your grad!

Congratulations again, Class of 2026 – we can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next!

Honoring Pride Month 2026

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The words "Pride Month" in rainbow colors on a pink and yellow gradient background.

Honoring Pride Month 2026

June is Pride Month, a time to honor the history of activism that has advanced equity for LGBTQI+ communities. It’s both a celebration and a call to action, underscoring the importance of visibility, acceptance, and the continued pursuit of human rights for all.

Visions In Education proudly celebrates the diversity of our staff, students, and families. We recognize and honor the LGBTQI+ community’s enduring legacy and ongoing fight for equality, and we remain committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.

Resources & Information

For more information about Pride Month, please see the following resources:

Build Your Future With the Success Through Education Mentoring Program

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A group of Visions high school students gather for a group photo in front of a blue and yellow wall that says "UC Davis."

Build Your Future With the Success Through Education Mentoring Program

What if one connection could help shape your future?

Research shows that just one supportive mentor can make a lasting difference in a young person’s life. The Success Through Education Mentoring (STEM) program was created to be that difference – connecting high school students with mentors who are ready to support, inspire, and guide them toward success beyond high school.

STEM is an educational mentoring program based at UC Davis that brings together Visions In Education high school students and UC Davis undergraduate mentors from a wide range of majors. Through engaging workshops, discussions, and interactive activities, students gain valuable insight into college life, career exploration, and the skills needed to succeed after graduation.

In the program, Visions students:

  • Connect with UC Davis mentors who have firsthand experience navigating college
  • Learn about college requirements, applications, and career pathways
  • Build confidence, leadership skills, and goal-setting strategies
  • Participate in fun, informative workshops alongside other Visions students
  • Become part of a supportive community focused on growth and achievement

Learn More About STEM from Our Students!

STEM is a year-long program open to high school students of all backgrounds, grade levels, and life experiences. The program’s sessions are designed to be interactive, informative, and supportive – creating a space where students can explore their goals, ask questions, and grow both academically and personally. Hear what students had to say about the program below:

“The support all year has been a blessing. Meeting with the mentors gave me an opportunity to learn what college would be like on a personal level as well as plan for what I need to do. The weekly check-ins provided were also helpful and I liked the interactive aspect.”

Daniel H.

“It was a great way to gain valuable information not only for college but for our future.”

Samuel G.

If you’re curious about college, exploring career options, or simply looking for guidance and encouragement from students who have been in your shoes, STEM is a great place to start!