Entries by Ronaldo Gomez

Supporting Communities through Soccer: Visions Makes Semifinals in Street Soccer USA Cup!

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Supporting Communities through Soccer: Visions Makes Semifinals in Street Soccer USA Cup!

Visions In Education is proud to sponsor and participate in the 5th Anniversary Cup in Sacramento this month to support Street Soccer USA.

Street Soccer USA is a national non-profit organization dedicated to fighting poverty and strengthening communities through soccer. What started as a single team in 2009 has now grown to over 75,000 players in some of the country’s most challenged neighborhoods. The organization provides a pay-to-play model with a focus on social-impact. 

Team Visions

This year, we had two student teams competing for a cause, led by Coach Kyle Novak. The students who competed this year were Zach Z., Joseph P., Isaiah B., Jordan B., Hanan B., Rohan B., Nahum P., Amir P., Tim P., Samir D., Artem S., Preston K., Mackenzie K., Evelina O., Zahra S., and Sayyed Q. Our students played amazing and represented Visions well, making it all the way to the semifinals!

Associate Director of Equity and Student Engagement Ron Thomas joined in the fun by cheering our student teams on the whole way! Events like these are such a fun opportunity to bring students, staff, and families together and showcase our Visions spirit.

We are so proud of our students and their involvement in this competition for a cause this past weekend. Special thank you to Coach Kyle Novak for guiding our teams and helping coordinate.

We look forward to our Visions co-ed staff team getting out on the field this coming weekend – good luck staff!

Celebrating Education & Community at the Evening with the Stars Gala

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Celebrating Education & Community at the Evening with the Stars Gala

Visions In Education was proud to once again sponsor the San Juan Education Foundation’s Evening with the STARS gala on October 10th. This annual event brings together community partners, district leaders, and supporters from across the region to raise vital funds for educator grants, student scholarships, and programs that expand access to high-quality learning opportunities within our authorizing district, San Juan Unified.

Representing Visions at the gala were Board Members Samuel Smalls and Clark Shueh, along with Marketing and Communications Manager Justina Janas, who joined attendees in celebrating this year’s STARS awardees. These distinguished San Juan Unified alumni were honored for being Service-oriented, Trailblazing, Accomplished, Role models who Shine bright, individuals whose achievements exemplify the power of public education and the lifelong impact of dedicated teachers and mentors.

The evening featured a mix of entertainment and inspiration, including student performances and heartfelt tributes that underscored the difference community support makes in shaping students’ futures. Guests enjoyed a dinner program that highlighted stories of resilience, creativity, and success from classrooms across San Juan Unified – stories that mirror the values and vision shared by Visions In Education.

Beyond the celebration, Evening with the STARS serves a greater purpose: ensuring that students have access to opportunities that help them reach their full potential. Funds raised during the event directly support classroom innovation through educator grants, giving educators the tools to create dynamic, engaging learning experiences for their students.

We are honored to be part of this collective effort and remain committed to championing public education.

Student Spotlight: Visions Student Publishes First Book

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Student Spotlight: Visions Student Publishes First Book

For Independent Study Academy 10th grader Karsten, creativity has been a lifelong companion. Since enrolling with Visions four years ago, Karsten has used his flexible schedule to pursue one of his biggest passions – writing. Between his schoolwork, he spends time jotting down notes and building the imaginative worlds that fuel his stories.

This dedication recently led to a major accomplishment: the publication of his first book, Midtown: The Forsaken Virus of the Black Realm. The story follows a young girl named Nikki Sinclair, who must confront The Virus, a dark entity spreading corruption through her city. Alongside her mother and allies, Nikki faces the ultimate question: what kind of hero is she willing to become?

Building Worlds Through Words

When asked about his inspiration, Karsten shared, “I was inspired by all of the video games I’ve played growing up. A lot of my creativity has come from the stories I’ve grown up with. I wanted to have a story that was my own.”

Karsten began creatively writing when he was just seven years old, and the journey from idea to published book has been one of perseverance and growth. His writing process often starts with a spark of inspiration, which he develops into characters that he models in his games, each with their own detailed backstories. Those connections are when the story comes to life.

“The book actually took a lot of rewrites, edits, and starting over,” Karsten explained. “It took over a year to finally have a finished book.”

That determination paid off. With the flexibility of Independent Study, Karsten found the time and space to bring his vision to life. “Visions has helped a lot by giving me a flexible schedule with a lot of free time that I can use to focus on my writing and my ideas,” he said.

Now, with the first book complete, Karsten is already planning the sequel and envisions the story growing into a full series. His advice to other Visions students is simple but powerful: “Use your free time to focus on studying and working on whatever your interests are. We have a lot of time to learn more about ourselves and what we like.”

Karsten’s e-book is currently available for pre-order on Amazon, with paperback and hardcover editions releasing October 20th. To follow updates on Midtown: The Forsaken Virus of the Black Realm, visit the publisher’s Instagram page.

Teaching the Next Generation of Leaders: Chief Academic Officer Dr. Micah Studer featured by CASBO

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Teaching the Next Generation of Leaders: Chief Academic Officer
Dr. Micah Studer featured by CASBO

Chief Academic Officer Dr. Micah Studer was recently featured in an article by the California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO), where they highlighted his own unique career path in education, and how teaching other leaders has sparked clarity and structure in his own leadership.



READ HERE!

Empowering Future Leaders

Dr. Studer currently serves as part of the faculty for CASBO’s CBO Business Executive Leadership Program, a program designed to equip future district leaders with the knowledge and perspective to lead in today’s evolving educational landscape. In this role, Studer empowers students to see their worth and value in education, and helps them to understand that they are not “just an analyst” or “just in accounts payable”, but rather people whose work makes a difference for the students and communities they serve. 

This opportunity has allowed Dr. Studer to enhance his own leadership skills. “Teaching these philosophies was really the mechanism by which I was able to refine and articulate the things that mattered. A lot of people have a lot of great technical knowledge, but can you communicate? Can you build a system? Can you build a structure around it?”

Becoming a Lifelong Learner

Dr. Studer also explains the value of continuing to learn and grow once you are in the leadership role. Continuing to learn and stay apprised to current changes is critical to stay at the top of your game. He shares that learning through structured programs like CASBO’s, “helps keep me sharp. It helps continue to enhance my craft. It helps keep me abreast of the topics of the day and it helps me be connected to the community.”

The article closes with a powerful sentiment for those on their growth path. When asked what advice he has to those who are just starting their journey, he shares, “Don’t underestimate your value and don’t assume your role is too small to matter. Leadership comes from a mindset of service, growth, and curiosity.”

Supporting the Whole Child – The Wu’s & Visions

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Supporting the Whole Child - The Wu's & Visions

“Visions has really helped both of my children grow as learners but also grow as people,” shares Ms. Wu, reflecting on the impact the program has had on her family.

At Visions In Education, we recognized that learning is not one-size-fits-all. With a flexible and individualized approach, students receive the support they need in areas where they may struggle, while also being encouraged to explore and deepen their passions.

For Ms. Wu’s son, that meant diving into his love for history. Thanks to the customizable course offerings at Visions, he was able to take more history classes than he would have in a traditional public school, and even participated in history-related activities that helped bring the subject to life. 

“He has more confidence as a learner and understands how he learns best because the approach has been so individualized.”

Ms. Wu’s daughter has also flourished at Visions. With access to art-related activities and social events with other students, she’s been able to explore her creativity while building friendships and social confidence.

By focusing on the whole child, Visions empowers students not just academically, but personally—helping them discover their strengths, explore their interests, and grow into confident, independent learners.

Visions Featured In Comstock’s Magazine

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Comstocks article featuring Visions

Visions Featured In Comstock’s Magazine



READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE ON PAGE 88-90

Visions In Education is proud to be featured in the October 2025 edition of Comstock’s Magazine. In this comprehensive article, Jennifer von Geldern explores the evolution of hybrid learning with insights from educational leaders at the forefront of the hybrid charter school landscape.

The feature examines the origins and development of hybrid learning models, highlighting how today’s charter schools are delivering alternative educational services to meet diverse student needs.

Visions’ Superintendent Dr. Steve Olmos spoke to the student population that thrives in these flexible learning environments: “Our students are incredibly diverse. They include teen parents, athletes, artists, students with health needs and those seeking a safer or more flexible learning environment.”

With more than 25 years of experience in distance learning, Visions has cultivated deep expertise through careful preparation, strategic planning, and thoughtful implementation. 

Leading the Way in Hybrid Learning

When the COVID-19 pandemic prompted unprecedented demand for virtual learning options, Visions was uniquely positioned to serve families – having refined these educational models for years.

At the center of this success is our in-house platform, the LPAD Student Support System™, a custom-built student support system developed by Visions, for Visions. Dr. Olmos noted, “We already had systems in place and have since invested even more in technology. We have a custom-built student support system that makes it easy for families and staff to communicate, track progress and manage resources, and are constantly improving how we teach and support students online.”

This commitment to continuous improvement underscores Visions’ leadership in the hybrid learning space. Thank you Comstock’s Magazine for amplifying the need for flexible learning options and opportunities for future generations of families to learn more about the school choices that are available to them. 

Recognizing LGBTQ History Month

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Rainbow graphic that reads "LGBTQ History Month"

Recognizing LGBTQ History Month

October is LGBTQ History Month – a time to honor the trailblazers, advocates, and everyday heroes who have shaped the movement for equality and inclusion. This month serves as both a celebration of progress and a reminder of the ongoing work toward acceptance and justice for all.

LGBTQ History Month also encourages us to learn, listen, and lead with pride – to celebrate diversity not just in October, but every day.

Additional Resources & Information

 

A Place For Every Learner – The Simmons Family’s Visions Experience

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A Place For Every Learner - The Simmons Family's Visions Experience

With five sons, finding a single school or educational program that could meet the needs of each individual child was no easy task for the Simmons family. But when they found Visions, that changed.

“Visions has helped our sons in so many different ways,” shares Mrs. Simmons.

Visions offers a flexible and supportive learning environment, with multiple curriculum options and four unique academies tailored to different age groups and learning styles. Whether a student thrives with structure, needs more independence, or requires special support services, Visions provides the resources to help every child succeed.

For the Simmons family, this has made all the difference. Their younger sons benefit from personalized support, while their older sons are thriving in Visions’ growing athletics program, playing basketball and learning essential life skills like teamwork, discipline, and leadership.

Visions also ensures that students with special needs are fully supported, offering services like speech therapy and occupational therapy, so every learner has the opportunity to thrive.

One of the most important lessons the Simmons boys say they’ve learned is independence. At Visions, students are empowered to manage their own schedules and workload, giving them the space to learn at their own pace while preparing them for the future.

“As we become adults, I think that’s something that we’re going to really need,” one of the older sons shares.

For the Simmons family, the experience has been transformative. “I would recommend it to anyone who is looking to homeschool their children and provide the best, most robust education to their children,” says Mr. Simmons.

Get To Know TK-8 Curriculum Coordinator Kaylee Song

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Kaylee tabling at a Visions in-person event

Get To Know TK-8 Curriculum Coordinator Kaylee Song

Since stepping into the Curriculum Coordinator position in February 2025, Kaylee has drawn on a wide range of experience as a teacher, instructional leader, and curriculum designer. She began her career teaching upper elementary in Sacramento, where she developed and implemented curriculum to meet the needs of each student. She supported colleagues as the site PBIS Facilitator, Induction Support Provider, and mentor for teacher candidates. As a member of the PLI Department, Kaylee has continued this work by leading professional learning for educators, instructional leaders, and staff to ensure all students have access to a guaranteed and viable curriculum. This week, Kaylee is joining a team from the PLI Department to present at the Charter School Development Center 2025 Conference on our Comprehensive Systems of Support.

As TK-8 Curriculum Coordinator, Kaylee partners with the Home School and Online Middle School Academies to strengthen instructional practices and learning through curricular review, coaching & consultation for instructional leaders, and professional development. Above all, Kaylee is excited about helping ensure every student has access to high-quality instructional materials, paired with comprehensive support that helps educators use them with confidence. With expertise in standards alignment, educational equity, and instructional design, she is passionate about building capacity in educators and fostering collaborative learning communities that empower and provide opportunities for students to thrive.

Student Spotlight: Roping The Way To Greatness

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Jackie M poses with rodeo awards

Student Spotlight: Roping The Way To Greatness

In Visions In Education’s Independent Study Academy, students are encouraged to follow their passions, and Jackie M. is a shining example of what it means to dedicate yourself fully to a dream.

Jackie enrolled at Visions two and a half years ago to take control of her learning and allow more time for her true passion: rodeo. She practices six days a week and says, “Rodeo consumes my whole life, which I am grateful for.”

“Rodeo is a lifestyle not just a hobby. I also want people to know that our animals always come first. We treat them like athletes in and out of the arena.” 

Her horse, Rango, a 15-year-old American Paint Horse, is more than just a partner in the arena. Jackie describes him as her “best friend and biggest motivation to keep going every day.” Together, the pair compete in rodeo events, with Jackie focusing on breakaway roping and beginning to train in team roping as well.

Breakaway roping is a fast-paced event where a cowgirl on horseback ropes a calf around the neck, with the goal of breaking the rope in the fastest possible time. Team roping, on the other hand, requires two riders to work together to rope a steer as quickly as possible. Jackie has only been competing for four years, but her hard work has already paid off. She recently won the breakaway roping event at the Oakdale Rodeo, where the Mayor of Oakdale presented her with a championship buckle.

Her teacher, Mrs. Rold, proudly calls her a “rodeo champion,” and Jackie is quick to credit her school for supporting her goals. “I like my teacher a lot, she is very nice and is always there to help me,” she shared. “Coming to Visions was one of the best decisions I have ever made for myself and I am forever grateful for the teachers, counselors, and principals that make this possible.”

Jackie M. rides her horse in competition

Following Her Dreams

Looking ahead, Jackie hopes to combine her love for rodeo with a career in sports medicine. She plans to become a Rodeo Sports Medicine Doctor, caring for the athletes, both human and animal, who inspire her every day.

Jackie’s journey reflects the spirit of Visions students everywhere: determination, gratitude, and the courage to pursue what matters most.

Jackie M. on her horse while participating in competition
Jackie M. poses while attending a rodeo competition
Jackie M. poses with horse and ribbons while attending a rodeo competition