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Entries by Ellie Fazzi

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

July 17, 2025/in Home School, 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.

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 $3,500 budget for our Home School Academy and a $2,000 budget for our Online Middle School, 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!

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,” said 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. The club advisors truly brought their vision of a place where students could gather, play and learn to life. As the club has expanded, they 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,” one of the club advisors shared. “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 consistently creating new opportunities for our students to develop, whether it’s through clubs, student organizations or extracurriculars. The club advisors and the nine current club members are looking forward to another year of growing the eSports community, together. As one of the club advisors says, “There are other students…at Visions, hungry for community, brimming with potential, just waiting for their chance to shine.”

Visions’ Soccer Club Finishes Its First Season!

January 16, 2024/in News

Visions’ Soccer Club Finishes Its First Season!

Visions’ inaugural indoor soccer club completed their first full season last month, ending in two exciting playoff games against Marconi and Sacramento Academic and Vocational Academy. Leading goalscorer Juan R. led the team with 11 goals going into the tournament.

Independent Study teacher and coach Kyle Novak, who played for Whitworth University and previously served as the assistant coach for the University of Oregon Women’s Soccer team, was proud to have represented Visions and our students during the season. With only a few players on the team having previous club soccer experience, it was extra special for Kyle to watch the players come together and learn how to play as a team.

“I immensely enjoyed coaching this team. Something I’m impressed with is that we consistently added new goal scorers throughout the season. We didn’t rely on only one to two players to get us points on the board,” shares Kyle. “Something to note is only two of our fifteen players had experience playing club soccer. The rest of the team have developed their skills on recreation teams in the Sacramento area, yet they are competing against charter schools with many players who play on club teams. This speaks to the grittiness of our players. They don’t give up, even when they are out-skilled, and they work together to find ways to win key moments on the field. It’s been so cool to witness their progress over this short season and I’m looking forward to what they can do next year.”

Student-Focused

At Visions, we encourage our students to explore their passions through clubs, organizations and extracurricular opportunities. Ron Thomas, Associate Director of Equity and Student Engagement, helps create more and more opportunities such as these for our students. Through collaboration with other instructional staff and leaders, Ron helped bring the soccer club to Visions, and even attended a few games throughout the season!

“I try to make it out to as many of the events as possible, encouraging our staff to support our students alongside their families,” says Ron.

Like many of our clubs, the soccer club gave students the opportunity to try a new skill, make friends and expand their education. We look forward to seeing what the club will do next season!

Click through the photos below to check out some shots from the final games! See all photos on our Facebook page.

Student Spotlight: How One High Schooler is Redefining “Student Athlete”

January 16, 2024/in Student Spotlight

Student Spotlight: How One High Schooler is Redefining “Student Athlete”

If you asked Jax A. what his current life goal is, he’d say, “Earn my second degree black belt in karate.” If you asked him what his future life goal is, he’d say something quite different – “Make it to the Olympics for snowboarding.”

At only fourteen years old, it may seem like Jax is dreaming big. But with six snowboarding competition wins, two appearances at United States of America Snowboard and Freeski Association nationals, and a first degree black belt in karate already on his resume, his goals don’t seem so lofty.

“I compete in several [snowboarding] disciplines. Some are racing the clock turning through gates. I also race head to head in snowboard cross, where you have to fight each other through turns and straightaways to cross the finish line first,” says Jax. “I also compete in rail jam and slopestyle where I have to hit jumps, metal rails, [and] boxes to show off my tricks and style for the judges to score.”

Hitting the slopes for the first time at only five years old, Jax wasn’t always the prolific snowboarder that he is now. After many years of practice, he’s now able to train at a higher caliber, riding 60 days out of the year at Palisades, Mammoth Mountain or Sierra at Tahoe and training indoors on trampolines or roller boards during the summer months.

“I had to start at the bottom of the [snowboarding] teams and work my way up,” explains Jax. “I would ride every weekend, spring break and even train with my coach into the summer break.”

The flexibility of Visions’ Independent Study Academy is what lends Jax the time to train, travel and everything in between. Using planners to stay organized, he’s able to schedule his school work around his training days, something Jax says helps keep him on track.

“I like the ability to have flexible training schedules,” says Jax. “I have had a lot more time to focus on snowboarding, fitness, training and my grades.”

From the Mountains to the Mat

In addition to snowboarding, Jax has been doing karate with Kovar’s Martial Arts & Fitness since he was in kindergarten. As one of our Enrichment Vendors, Kovar’s provides extracurricular activities and hands-on learning opportunities for students like Jax. A current first degree black belt, Jax is using his Enrichment Vendor funds to continue to train with Kovar’s and pursue his passion for martial arts.

“I wanted to learn how to fight and defend myself,” Jax shares. “My goal is to earn my second degree black belt. I also am working towards a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.”

With three more years of high school to go, Jax has remained steady on his course to graduating, hoping to one day start his own snowboarding company and eventually qualify for the Olympics. His teacher, Jessica Wall, who Jax exclaims is the “best teacher ever,” commends Jax’s commitment to his education alongside his big dreams.

“Jax completes his work consistently and communicates well,” Jessica shares. “He is an all-around phenomenal student.”

At Visions, Jax truly is redefining what it means to be a student athlete. A strong academic and athletic competitor, he has been given the opportunity to receive a rigorous education, explore and refine his passions, and pursue his wildest dreams.

“Jaime Anderson from our resort and South Lake [Tahoe] Olympian went to Visions and it worked for her, so I know it can work for me too!”

Want to keep up with Jax? Follow him on Instagram!

Check out some of Jax’s sponsors!

Akova Gear
BC Goggles
Blue Iron
CCE, Inc
Donek Snowboards
Pismo Beach Surf Academy

Senator Niello Recognizes Visions Student For Dedication to Public School Choice

January 16, 2024/in News

Senator Niello Recognizes Visions Student For Dedication to Public School Choice

In September of 2023, University Prep Academy student Tori Berg had the opportunity to present the Golden Apple Award to Senator Roger Niello on behalf of California Parents for Public Virtual Education. This award, which recognizes policymakers who are advocating for parental choice in education, was close to Tori’s heart, as it represented her educational experience and success at a non-classroom based school like Visions.

Excitingly, Senator Niello wrote a personalized letter to Tori and sent it to Visions, thanking her for presenting him with the award and commending her hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence. We were lucky enough to invite Tori, her father, and two of her teachers, Hilary Ducharme and Sarah Grassinger, to join Superintendent Olmos in presenting Tori with the letter.

Visions Stands Up For Public School Choice

Over the past year, Visions In Education staff has met with lawmakers to discuss the importance of charter schools and equitable funding. We’ve had the pleasure of meeting with Senator Niello and many others to highlight how schools like Visions are an important option for families, like the Bergs, that want different public education options.

Congratulations Tori and thank you for continuing to champion school choice and Visions!

Check out Tori’s spotlight and the full story here!

Meeting the Needs of All Students: A Spotlight on the Special Education Department

January 9, 2024/in News

Meeting the Needs of All Students: A Spotlight on the Special Education Department

The Special Education Department here at Visions is comprised of a diverse group of staff. From case managers to speech therapists to school psychologists, this incredible team works to provide services to our special education students and their families. Led by Jessica Lauder, Director of Special Education, Loretta Holder, Special Education Manager for the Home School Academy, and Kim Patalingjug, Special Education Manager for the Independent Study and University Prep Academies, this department serves our most unique and dynamic population of students.

“I have the honor of supporting [the] amazing special education teachers, related service providers, support personnel and families throughout the IEP (Individualized Education Program) process and all special education activities,” shares Loretta. “In addition, I work together with our amazing admin team to design and implement processes to enhance our special education program.”

Overseen by Jessica, the department relies on strong leadership to guide them through the many aspects of working for such a unique department. As the organization continues to grow in service to our families, so does the capacity of our team to support our special education students.

“I provide leadership to the Special Education Department and support an outstanding group of educators,” explains Jessica. “Some of my department roles include compliance and legal oversight, policy development, budget and resource allocation and program development. Within the broader organization of Visions, I work collaboratively with various departments to ensure we are meeting the needs of all students.”

Multi-Faceted and Student-Centered

The Special Education Department is greatly involved in the academic and social success of its students. From mild/moderate to moderate/severe students, this group is equipped to handle a wide variety of student needs, learning styles and individual goals.

“Special education encompasses a wide range of learning differences, each requiring unique teaching methodologies and supports,” explains Jessica. “Every student has the support of a multidisciplinary team, who work together to develop an Individualized Education Program that is tailored to each student’s specific needs, ensuring a student-centered approach. That being said, it is not just our students who are unique. The special education teachers here at Visions have a level of passion for their students that is unprecedented. They truly go above and beyond for their students.”

“I think the most important thought I can share is that special education is hard work. It can truly be grueling at times because there is a lot of work in making sure we are doing the right thing in supporting our students, meeting legal requirements, dealing with emotional situations, and the list goes on. That being said, I can always say it is the most rewarding work I have ever done! I love what I do and am grateful for the opportunity to support our fabulous department, families and students at Visions!” says Loretta.

Continuous Collaboration

Although special education can be nuanced, the team works closely with other departments to ensure they’re providing the best support possible for our students. Without the collaborative nature of the department, we would not be able to provide the level of service that we do to our special education families.

“With every student requiring the support of a multidisciplinary team, collaboration is always a central theme in the work of special education. Special education teachers are constantly working with other team members throughout the Visions organization, including their general education colleagues and a wide variety of service providers, including speech therapists, occupational therapists and psychologists. By working together, they can both problem-solve unique situations for our students and align supports to provide a greater impact to the student and families,” says Jessica.

In addition to the collaborative work of IEP teams, the success of the department also relies heavily on working with all partners here at Visions, including Enrollment, Ordering Services, Internal Data & System Services, Counseling, EL and more.

“One thing I have learned in my short time here at Visions is that it is the right people, working together throughout the organization, that make our school a unique and successful place to work and learn,” says Jessica.

“Our team embodies the1% better every day motto by always showing up to support one another throughout our department and organization,” adds Loretta. “In addition, our team is always looking for ways to better support students and families. Our team is open minded, flexible and ready to take on new challenges. It is an absolute joy to see how every member in our special education department is always willing to support and go the extra mile.”

Kim, the self-proclaimed “newbie” of the group, has quickly learned that this group of staff truly do share the same goal.

“I’ve learned that these amazing educators, vice principals, principals, office staff, managers and directors are all striving for the same goal – to support kids in any way possible.”

A Few of Their Favorite Things

“The amazing team that we have in our Special Education Department and all the incredible families and students that I am honored to serve and support.” – Loretta H.

“The staff, the families and the students. I’m proud to support the incredible work of the staff and enjoy watching the students and families benefit.” – Kim P.

“My favorite part of working in the Special Education Department is the collaborative environment. The special education team here at Visions is an amazing group of professionals who deeply care about the success of their students. Being able to support this team in their work is very fulfilling, as I know they make a difference in the lives of students every day.” – Jessica L.