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Entries by Ellie Fazzi

Overcoming Obstacles: Alumni Hall of Fame Inductee Jessica’s Journey of Healing and Hope

July 17, 2025/in Independent Study, Student Spotlight

The Alumni Hall of Fame recognizes Visions In Education alumni who have excelled in higher education, their careers, or through meaningful contributions to their communities. Through the Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award, Visions will honor these individuals and highlight their journeys as a reflection of the positive impact our programs can have.

Overcoming Obstacles: Alumni Hall of Fame Inductee Jessica’s Journey of Healing and Hope

At seventeen, Jessica Chavez stood at the crossroads of her future. After years of struggling with substance abuse and academic challenges across multiple high schools, she made a pivotal decision to enroll in Visions In Educations’ Independent Study Academy, a choice that would ultimately change her life trajectory.

“Although it took me five years to graduate, one teacher’s belief in me made all the difference,” Jessica reflects. “Suzanne Myers lit a fire inside me, helping me believe I was capable of achieving the impossible – and I did just that.”

The personalized support and unwavering belief Jessica received from her teachers and counselors at Visions proved to be the catalyst she needed. Beyond academic instruction, the program equipped her with essential life skills: perseverance, self-advocacy, and the confidence to embrace challenges.

“Since graduation, I have accomplished more than I [could have] ever imagined…The experience showed me that both my grades and I mattered,” said Jessica.

Inspiration Into Impact

After graduating from Visions, Jessica attended Sierra College and CCAPP Academy to obtain a degree in Addiction Medicine. After graduating with her degree, Jessica gained valuable experience working as an art therapy practitioner and a teacher’s aide with students with special needs at Cerebral Palsy & Developmental Disabilities.

Today, she serves as a counselor in addiction medicine and has established her own community-focused business, Gifts of Gratitude, dedicated to helping others overcome similar challenges.

Suzanne Myers, Jessica’s credentialed teacher at Visions, witnessed Jessica’s transformation firsthand. “From the moment she walked into our first meeting, I could see her potential, and watching her not only meet but exceed those expectations has been a joy,” Suzanne recalls. “She’s grown into someone who embraces challenges, values growth, and continues to push boundaries in everything she does.”

Jessica’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of personalized education and the importance of educators who see potential where others might see obstacles. Her story serves as an inspiration to current students facing their own challenges, demonstrating that with the right support system and unwavering determination, it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve extraordinary success.

Through her work in addiction counseling and her community outreach efforts, Jessica continues to pay forward the support she received at Visions, creating a ripple effect of positive change that extends far beyond her own remarkable achievements.

“Jessica’s hard work, determination, and kindness have not only led to her success, but has inspired everyone around her, myself included,” said Suzanne. “I have no doubt that this is only the beginning of the amazing things she will continue to achieve.”

Strength Through Self-Discovery: Meet Alumni Hall of Fame Inductee William

July 17, 2025/in Independent Study, Student Spotlight

Strength Through Self-Discovery: Meet Alumni Hall of Fame Inductee William

At Visions In Education, William Lynch gained valuable insights into his personal strengths and learned how to align his skills with his career goals. His Visions journey began in ninth grade when he enrolled in the Home School Academy, driven by a desire to have a more flexible learning environment that would allow him to explore diverse interests.

Working alongside his mother to navigate the curriculum of an independent learning program, William thrived in the unique educational structure of Visions. During his sophomore year, he expressed interest in college coursework, and, with the help of his teacher Donelle O’Brien, enrolled at Sierra College. At just 16 years old, William took his first college math course, recounting the experience of being a high school student in a college classroom.

“I remember helping out 20-year-olds and feeling really cool and just overall excited to continue to do more college courses while at Visions,” he remarks.

For William, Visions’ structure provided the framework for his educational development, and enabled him to cultivate critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities that would prove instrumental in his future.

Foundational Learning

Following his graduation from Visions in 2017, William continued his academic pursuits at the University of California, San Diego, where he earned his degree in electrical engineering with a specialization in computer system design in 2022. The educational foundation formed at Visions prepared him well for the competitive field of engineering.

Upon completing his undergraduate studies, William joined IVM, Inc., a specialized company based in Indianapolis, Indiana that focuses on smart vending solutions. In this role, he has demonstrated exceptional innovation, collaborating with his team to file a patent for a novel automated retail solution, and has showcased his ability to translate theoretical knowledge into practical applications.

William attributes much of his professional success to the skills developed during his time at Visions. The program’s emphasis on self-directed learning and problem-solving has continued to serve him throughout his engineering career, particularly in generating innovative product concepts.

“The most significant advantage of [an] independent study [style program] was the development of my creative mindset,” William explains. “When addressing engineering challenges, I can often think beyond conventional project parameters to develop innovative solutions. Additionally, the program instilled in me an appreciation for diverse knowledge acquisition, encouraging me to pursue learning across various disciplines, which has resulted in a more comprehensive approach to problem-solving.”

Guidance for Future Students

William’s professional journey serves as an example for students at any stage of their academic development, emphasizing the importance of maintaining curiosity. His experience shows how exposure to diverse subjects and collaborative learning environments can help students identify their areas of interest.

“I strongly recommend taking advantage of the freedom to explore subjects that genuinely interest you,” William said. “Without taking the time to discover your true passions during your educational years, you risk becoming confined to careers or positions that may not align with your interests or provide long-term satisfaction.”

As an Alumni Hall of Fame inductee, William demonstrates how alternative educational approaches can successfully prepare students for their futures while fostering the skills necessary for lifelong success.

“William’s story places an emphasis on realizing that continuous growth and learning can instill a mindset in students that values education beyond our school,” declared Donelle. “William has achieved notable accomplishments that can serve as a tangible example of what is possible with dedication and hard work through…Visions In Education.”

Changing Course: How Support and Self-Belief Transformed Alumni Hall of Fame Inductee Brian’s Life

July 17, 2025/in Independent Study, Student Spotlight

Changing Course: How Support and Self-Belief Transformed Alumni Hall of Fame Inductee Brian’s Life

As a young student, Brian Abrigana didn’t connect with the “one-size-fits-all” model of learning. Coming from a traditional public school where he experienced bullying and safety concerns, he lacked the support systems to truly engage with his education.

“I didn’t feel l belonged in public school. I felt a bit lost, very awkward, and I needed a mentor,” Brian shared.

Needing direction, Brian enrolled at Visions In Education his freshman year of high school. In the Independent Study Academy, he was given the appropriate supports to get back on track with his learning, including guidance from his teacher.

“For the second half of high school through graduation, my teacher was Shauna Buchanan. As she got to know me, she’d encourage continual improvement in my work. She would focus on the positives and tactfully offered constructive criticism on my weak points,” Brian shared. “She really did encourage me to apply myself.”

For Brian, the independent learning model was especially beneficial, offering flexibility and individualized academic attention. But despite his success, his aspirations stopped at “high school diploma”; with limited awareness of higher education opportunities, Brian initially had no intention of going to college – until Shauna.

“She asked me if I had considered going to college, and I told her I hadn’t. I originally had no aspirations for college, and no adults in my family knew a thing about college. My mother came over from the Philippines in the 1980s and worked as a seamstress,” Brian explained. “[Shauna] said she thought I should give it some thought and offered to meet me at San Joaquin Delta College in Stockton, California if I was interested in learning more. I accepted that offer, and years later I’m a practicing registered nurse in a well-compensated field where I help people heal every single day,” exclaims Brian. “I really couldn’t thank Shauna more for encouraging me and going with me to the college. It completely changed the course of my life and I’m truly grateful I ran into Shauna. I really don’t think I’d be half as successful as I am now if it wasn’t for her.”

The Impacts of Individualized Learning

During his four years at Visions, Brian’s educational experience transformed. The skills he learned as a student – time management, critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-advocacy – stayed with him through college, his nursing program, and beyond.

“The science classes required for nursing included anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and microbiology. All of these seemed initially intimidating, but I ultimately found them quite interesting. I excelled in all these classes and ended up often leading study groups with my peers,” Brian shared. “My resulting GPA helped me to be accepted into the highly competitive nursing program.”

“Brian went from not being confident in his abilities to go to college, to pushing through and receiving a nursing associate degree in a field that is extremely hard to get into,” Shauna reiterated. “He is an example of what persistence and drive can accomplish.”

As mentioned, Brian is now a practicing registered nurse at St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Stockton. From the kid who used to stay up all night cramming out assignments to the first in his family to attend college, Brian is grateful to Visions for helping him learn how to take control of his learning – and his life.

“I’m very thankful,” said Brian. “I get to help people at some of their lowest lows. I make sure I provide the best care possible so I may truly make a lasting impact on their lives.”

Lately, Brian has been planting Japanese maple trees in his backyard, hoping to turn his land into a mini Japanese-themed garden. Like the trees, Brian too has bloomed, thanks to patience, care, and a little vision.

Care and Community: Alumni Hall of Fame Inductee Alyssa’s Journey from Student to Clinical Psychologist

July 17, 2025/in Student Spotlight, University Prep

Care and Community: Alumni Hall of Fame Inductee Alyssa's Journey from Student to Clinical Psychologist

In 2017, Megan Edens began teaching in the Home School Academy at Visions In Education. Only a few weeks earlier, she had proudly celebrated her daughter Alyssa Edens’ graduation from the very same school.

Before becoming a teacher at Visions, Megan had encouraged her daughter to enroll at Visions, making space for Alyssa’s budding independence, desire for flexibility, and love of learning. In the University Prep Academy, Alyssa’s education was molded by group meetings in the library and the freedom to learn life skills, such as cooking and cleaning. As she grew older and continued her studies at Visions, a longtime passion for helping others began to take shape.

“Growing up, many of my friends struggled with mental health issues and I knew I wanted to help in some way,” Alyssa explained.

Alyssa’s teacher, Andy VandenAkker, was a key influence during this time. With patience, kindness, and individualized attention, Mr. VandenAkker offered Alyssa invaluable support, especially when she was deciding on her college path.

“I really enjoyed my time with Mr. VandenAkker. He was a great teacher and was very encouraging! He was very supportive when I selected where I was going to undergrad.”

After graduating from Visions, Alyssa went on to receive her Bachelor’s in Psychology from Biola University, followed by a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in Clinical Psychology at APU, gaining hands-on experience through multiple roles: working as a respite care provider for a young girl with Down syndrome, serving in the Los Angeles County Foster Care system, and completing a practicum at a local nonprofit.

“As a respite care worker, I take care of a young girl and drive her to different therapies (speech, physical). I pick her up from school and enjoy being able to spend time with her,” said Alyssa. “While working in the foster care system, I drove to clients’ homes and conducted therapy for the children and families. At my current site, I am conducting assessments for children and adolescents and determining their diagnoses. I mostly work with children with ADHD and ASD, but have also worked with children with intellectual disabilities, anxiety, and depression.”

Empowered Learning

For Alyssa, Visions was the stepping stone to a career that inspires, engages, and fulfills one of her most-held values: taking care of one another as a community.

“Visions allowed me to do well in school while also giving me time to learn life skills,” explained Alyssa. “As I grew up, the urge to help people…strengthened. Now that I have begun seeing clients, that passion has only grown and has confirmed that I have picked the correct field.”

What Alyssa gained from Visions was the ability to learn – about language and history, math and science, but also about service, purpose, and passion. Alyssa comes to the Alumni Hall of Fame as a true Visionary, one who seeks to understand the world not just through knowledge, but through empathy, action, and a commitment to making a difference.

“Alyssa is a person who represents what Visions stands for. She not only gives back to the community, but is pursuing a profession that is essential right now,” said Megan. “She can show Visions students that you can do anything you put your mind to and can make a difference in not only the people around you, but provide support and resources to share with others. She demonstrates passion and drive, she actively listens to others, she sets a positive example through her actions, and she can empower individuals to achieve their goals.”

Guided by Purpose, Grounded in Service: Meet Alumni Hall of Fame Inductee Tanner

July 17, 2025/in Home School, Independent Study, Student Spotlight

Guided by Purpose, Grounded in Service: Meet Alumni Hall of Fame Inductee Tanner

Tanner Zumwalt is a firm believer that “to whom much is given, much is required”. From a young age, he prioritized staying engaged, enriched, and empowered through education and stewardship, both of which have guided his life from adolescence to adulthood.

Tanner’s journey began in seventh grade when he enrolled at Visions In Education in the Home School Academy. At the time, Tanner was seeking the flexibility to pursue advanced coursework at a community college and balance a wide range of extracurricular activities, everything from triathlons to scouting.

“As a Visions student, I was able to work with some amazing educators and take advantage of a range of…learning opportunities,” said Tanner. “I enjoyed taking charge of my learning style and pace, ensuring I was able to stay challenged and engaged throughout high school.”

From piano lessons to volunteer work to community college classes, Tanner’s head-start, hands-on approach to education was bolstered by Visions’ structure and staff.

“During my time at Visions, I was blessed with some phenomenal teachers and faculty. The amazing Donelle O’Brien was my teacher for most of my time at Visions—she taught me to love education and fueled a spark for learning that extended well beyond her years as my teacher. She genuinely cared about me and would proactively reach out to connect me with extracurricular activities to ensure I was challenged and enriched beyond the classroom.”

From Student to Steward

Tanner’s teachers, as well as the resources made available by Visions, not only challenged him, encouraged his creativity, and nurtured his passion for education, but also connected him with the opportunities that propelled his post-secondary path.

After graduating early from Visions, Tanner went on to study at University of California, Davis, receiving his Bachelor’s in International Relations at the age of 18.

“As a young college student, I was able to continue cultivating the same passions that defined my experience at Visions, spanning undergraduate honors research to part-time work with the California State Assembly.”

Tanner currently holds the position of Assistant United States Attorney with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah. As a federal prosecutor, he is responsible for prosecuting a wide range of crimes with a special emphasis on financial offenses. He continues to find ways to seek adventure, challenge, and the opportunity to give back to his country while honoring Visions as the foundation for his success.

“Throughout my life, I’ve been blessed with some amazing opportunities, from my phenomenal education at Visions to my legal career and beyond,” Tanner shared. “Visions empowered me to take ownership of my education and seek out learning in unexpected places. I had the unique privilege of ‘choosing my own adventure’ throughout middle and high school—an experience that’s instilled a deep sense of self-direction, initiative, and resilience. The skills I developed during that time continue to shape and strengthen my professional journey. I’m profoundly grateful to the Visions teachers and counselors for offering a stellar, flexible education, and encouraging me to pursue my passions.”

Learning, Leadership, and Lasting Impact

In addition to his work with the Department of Justice and service in the National Guard, Tanner honors his 12-year tenure as an Army Officer by giving back to the veteran community, volunteering as an admissions coach to help servicemembers transition from the military to college.

When he’s not working, you can find Tanner hiking, swimming, and “visiting the best playgrounds Utah has to offer” with his three young boys. Ages 2-7, they are in the beginning stages of their own learning, and have an exceptional model to turn to when in need of advice.

“Take ownership of your education and boldly pursue your passions, both inside and outside the classroom,” Tanner offered. “True learning is not confined to textbooks or assignments; it thrives in curiosity, initiative, and imagination. Your teachers are not just guides but partners in your journey—ready to support, challenge, and collaborate with you. Don’t hesitate to bring them your ideas; together, you can shape an educational path that is as unique and ambitious as your potential.”

Tanner’s story truly reflects the heart of Visions’ mission – transforming learning into leadership and dreams into lasting impact – and we look forward to following along on his continued journey.

“Tanner was always a strong student, dedicated to lifelong learning,” said Tanner’s Visions teacher and 25-year employee Donelle O’Brien. “His commitment to public service, impact on law, problem solving, leadership, and persistence are exemplary, and his passion for helping the community, justice, and equity embodies the qualities to be honored for this award.”

“I’m very honored to be welcomed into the Visions Alumni Hall of Fame,” said Tanner. “This recognition is a reflection not only of my educational journey, but also of the incredible support, mentorship, and faculty that helped shape who I am today.”

Board of Directors Spotlight: Meet Terrence Shelton

June 21, 2024/in News

Board of Directors Spotlight: Meet Terrence Shelton

Please share why you volunteer on the Board at Visions In Education.

Every student that walks across the stage to receive their diploma is a reminder of why I volunteer on this Board. Preparing students for success in a rapidly changing world is a pursuit that never ends. I am here to help create a learning environment that prepares people for these changes, and builds confidence for people to be an active part of those changes.

What is it about Visions that made you want to be part of our school community?

Before joining the Board, I’d heard nothing but great things about Visions. A trusted colleague of mine homeschooled her two children at Visions from Kindergarten to 8th grade. Although I didn’t know much about non-classroom based schools at the time, I was amazed at what and how her children were learning and at their student success. Many years later, another colleague told me about an opportunity to join the Board. Now, there were two people I highly regarded saying equally amazing things about the school. After doing my own research, I knew I had to be part of it.

How might you describe the difference that our teachers and staff are making by meeting the individual and unique needs of each student?

The people at Visions are all committed to student success. They know that this happens when you focus on not only the academics, but the social and wellbeing aspects of our students’ lives as well. Visions has programs that support the whole student.

What is one way that Visions is making a difference in our community from your perspective?

Visions is a leader in this space. We focus on student success, but we also stand in our value of integrity. We do things the right way and without cutting corners. A school leading the way like Visions shows what can be done and how it should be done, setting the example for other schools to follow and influencing policy in support of all students.

As a member of the Board, you have an important policy and oversight role to ensure the school is achieving its mission. How would you describe your role in holding Visions accountable for meeting our goals to a variety of stakeholders, including families, staff, and taxpayers?

Challenge, support, and advocate. Challenge the team to innovate, support the team on their decisions, and be an advocate for Visions in my network.

What are you most passionate about? How are you able to pursue that passion by serving on our Board?

I’m committed to fostering sustainable communities, particularly by empowering young individuals. My focus lies in enhancing the education system, fostering mentorship opportunities, and ensuring career readiness for youth. Joining the Visions Board perfectly aligns with these passions. Visions offers a pathway to equitable access to top-tier education, characterized by greater flexibility compared to traditional public schools.

Please share a bit about your background, family, and what you like to do in your spare time.

I am a proud husband and father of three. My family is the purpose for everything I do. We like spending family time watching movies, reading, and playing board games. I grew up in a single parent home and some of my best memories are made of moments like those, so I want to create similar moments for them.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Visions’ faculty and staff is truly amazing. Their commitment to our students and to each other is evident in every interaction. They empower the people who will change our future for the better and I stand in awe. I’m so proud to be part of this Board.

On the Record: A Spotlight on the Attendance & Records Services Department

May 28, 2024/in News

On the Record: A Spotlight on the Attendance & Records Services Department

The Records team at Visions provides one of the foundational layers of student success. From reviewing attendance, to approving work samples, to building transcripts, the Student Services Representatives on the team help ensure that our students are completing the necessary work to continue through their education. This record keeping not only ensures we are compliant with charter law, but sets our students up for a successful journey through their years with us.

“The Records Department distinguishes itself through its meticulous focus on collecting, maintaining, reporting, and processing student information, a critical aspect of tracking each student’s educational journey,” explains Shrika Howard, Student Services Representative 1.

“My job is to manage our team to support families and teachers in the daily record keeping of students to be in compliance with independent study charter laws,” says James Hartley, Attendance & Records Manager. “It’s also to update and maintain the integrity of our student records and processes so that teachers and instructional staff can focus their time on supporting students and families.”

“Special Project” Superstars

Every year, the Records team is tasked with thoroughly reviewing the records of 75 students to ensure that they coincide with the information in our Student Information System. Doing this ensures that our processes align with the state requirements for independent study schools and is one of the many ways that the team sets the standard for best practices.

Superintendent Olmos calls it a “special project”, and was happy to report that the team did not have a single finding from this audit. The time and effort that they put into this project is a reflection of their 1% better every day commitment to not only their team, but to the organization as a whole.

“We follow written guidance to ensure we are taking every step possible towards proficiency, and come together to elaborate on ideas to improve processes,” shares Linda Lo, Student Services Representative 1. “Even though we all have our autonomy, we work together to serve families and staff.”

“Though small in size, the Records team handles 200,000+ paperwork submissions on a strict timeline each year, ensuring everything runs smoothly for our staff and families. Their meticulous management of our yearly special project and compliance audit guarantees a clean audit year after year,” shares Tania Houchin, Associate Director of Business Systems & Support. “Their dedication and precision are vital to the success of our organization, and I am deeply grateful for their hard work and commitment.”

With a Little Help From My Friends

As of April, the Records team has reviewed 183,169 documents and requested over 3,200 student cumulative files in the 2023-24 school year. With so many important student documents moving in and out of their hands, the team leans on one another for support when things get busy.

“Our team does a wonderful job of stepping in and supporting one another. Whenever someone is out or just needs a little assistance, everyone volunteers or pitches in to support. More hands make light work, our teamwork makes the dream work,” says Zeana Webb, Student Services Representative 1.

“Everyone is always willing to lend a helping hand, and the generous nature of our team is inspiring,” adds Keely Adams, Student Services Representative 1. “Our team has a shared purpose in ensuring accuracy and integrity in all aspects of the work they do to support students and staff.”

Marlene Miller, Student Services Representative 1 who’s been on the team for over eight years, is especially thankful for the uplifting and positive spirit of the department. As an optimist, she looks for the good in everything, and luckily for her, it isn’t hard to find on the Records team.

“My favorite thing about being on Visions’ Records team is that we all have each others’ backs,” she shares. “We are an awesome team.”

Wondering What They Do?

“I am responsible for a handful of tasks on the Independent Study side – requesting and building transcripts, reviewing new cumes, immunizations, legal documents, and other necessary documents.” – Demetri Katsilometes, Student Services Representative 1

“My responsibilities as an SSR for the Home School side of things encompass a vast majority of things – teacher and administrator support, demographic updates, records requests, and cume review. On top of that, I am the sole representative for Home School on the transcript team.” – Luis Elias, Student Services Representative 1

“The Records Department collaborates with other departments by providing vital student information like testing scores, immunization records and behavior reports. We take care of all demographic updates to ensure shipments go to the right places and we verify teacher and student documents for accuracy. Overall, the Records Department acts as a sort of hub for managing and distributing information important to student success. We sort of have our hands in everything.” – Julie Lukoskie, Student Services Representative 1

“There’s never a shortage of cumes to review, transcripts to complete, or attendance to work on!” – Daniel Vega, Student Services Representative 1

“I manage the physical records for our department. I send, receive, and review cumulative folders on a daily basis. I also work on transcripts and education verification requests.” – Jessica Litchfield, Clerk

“My responsibilities include training new SSRs, updating guidance, handling probation and legal requests, managing transcript building and reviewing, and processing credit waivers. I believe I help guide our team to success by supporting every member of the team and providing additional training and guidance as needed.” – Teri Woody, Student Services Representative 2

Visions High School Communities Celebrate End of the Year

May 28, 2024/in News

Visions High School Communities Celebrate End Of The Year

As the 2023-2024 school year comes to a close, Visions In Education high school students and faculty gathered from all over our Northern California service area for end of the year celebrations in five different locations. Reminiscing over the past year of growth and memories, students were treated to free food, thrilling games, contests, projects, and performances from our talented student body.

The evening kicked off with students signing in and setting up their projects, tuning their instruments, and taking a seat with food and crafting projects. Students and family members had the chance to walk around to view the wonderful art, history, science, and social projects before the performances started. Drawings decorated the walls as members of our staff looked on in appreciation for our students’ hard work and creativity.

Events such as these are great opportunities for students and families to check in with their Visions instructional teams. Visions regularly hosts events throughout the school year that enrich and broaden our students’ education while providing socialization opportunities with other students.

Setting the Stage

Excitement filled the air as performers and presenters filled the room with student interests. As conversations sparked, knowledge was shared, and this socialization is essential to creating community-building.

Halfway through the events, students showcased their talents! Students were able to sign up to perform their choice of talent on stage in front of a live audience of friends and family. Performances varied from musical voices and instruments to dance ensembles.

Between performances, teachers shared stories of their time spent with students and wished our graduating seniors well as they embarked on the next phase of their educational journeys. Following the performances, the evening began to wind down as students participated in activities such as making their own vanilla ice cream.

See more pictures in the photo gallery below of our End-Of-Year Celebrations.

As the community celebrated with each other, there was a tangible sense of camaraderie in the air and excitement for the end of the school year. Thank you to our talented students and dedicated events team who bring these events to life. Visions will continue to bring events like these to our communities and we can’t wait to see you all for more in the 2024-2025 school year!

Clubs, Partnerships & More: Expanding Our Students’ Education

May 13, 2024/in News

Clubs, Partnerships & More: Expanding Our Students’ Education

At Visions, there are so many ways that we supplement our students’ education. Through clubs, support services, community partnerships, enrichment activities and more, our students develop a well-rounded education while also exploring their interests.

In the 2023-24 school year alone, we went from 3 to over 50 student clubs, expanded from 150 to more than 600 Enrichment Vendors, and held hundreds of in-person opportunities like regional events, field trips, high school dances, and more. We also introduced our first ever sports clubs – soccer and basketball – and continue to partner with organizations in our community like 916 Ink to provide different educational experiences for our students.

Learn more about all the ways that Visions enriches the lives of our students in the video below!

The Visions Difference

We have numerous ways that students can get involved and expand their learning, including:

Over 50 student clubs
Student organizations like Find Your Voice, STEM, and more
Partnerships with more than 600 Enrichment Vendors
In-person events such as regional events, field trips, dances, and more
A $3,000 budget for our Home School Academy and a $1,500 budget for our Independent Study and University Prep academies

Want to learn a new language? Join a club! Interested in developing relationships within your community? Check out our student organizations! Have an idea for a Directed Project? Use your funds to get started! Whether you’re a dancer, a musician, an artist or an athlete, we make sure to provide opportunities outside of school where our students can nurture their hobbies. Check out the photos below to see for yourself!

See You Next Year!

Regardless of age, academy or interests, we ensure that all students are given the opportunity to receive a rigorous education while also pursuing their passions. As we begin close out the 2023-24 school year, we are always looking to make more of these fun and engaging opportunities available to our students – expect even more in the 2024-25 school year!

A Space for All Students: How Visions’ eSports Club Creates Community

January 17, 2024/in News

A Space for All Students: How Visions’ eSports Club Creates Community

At the eSports Club championships in December, you could feel the anticipation of another first place title on the line. Students and staff gathered in the Visions Boardroom to watch the club members battle it out with each other and St. Brendan High School in their game of choice – Super Smash Bros.

There were new and old faces in the room – current students, former club members, and even families. Last year’s champion and former student Lenny Muse attended with his friend and old eSports Club teammate, Haylynn. Together, they cheered on their old squad.

“The friendships they [Lenny and Haylynn] formed while participating in the eSports Club matter to them,” says Matt Mueller, Programmer here at Visions and one of the eSports Club advisors. “Since graduating, Lenny has continued to support the club as an assistant coach. He took the lead in organizing practice sessions outside of our weekly meetings. With his help, the entire team has made great strides throughout the season.”

Like last year, EliteGamingLIVE broadcasted each battle of the championship. After multiple rounds of one-on-one matches, Visions student Stepan G. (pictured in the blue Adidas sweatshirt) took second place overall in the tournament. Click through the photos below!

Replaying the Year

Beginning as a pilot program, the eSports Club has been operating for a little over a year now. Matt and co-advisor Uriel Gonzalez, Visions’ Director of Technology, truly brought their vision of a place where students could gather, play and learn to life. As the club has expanded, Matt and Uriel are proud to continue to provide a space for our e-gamers to grow.

“Clubs provide students an opportunity to socialize consistently with their peers,” Matt shares. “I see three major benefits: developing social skills, gaining personal confidence, and building the sort of support network that is increasingly important for young adults today. And best of all, it’s all driven by the students themselves.”

At Visions, we are constantly creating new opportunities for our students to develop, whether it’s through clubs, student organizations or extracurriculars. Matt, Uriel and the nine current club members are looking forward to another year of growing the eSports community, together. As Matt says, “There are other students…at Visions, hungry for community, brimming with potential, just waiting for their chance to shine.”