Entries by Ronaldo Gomez

A Heart for Students and a Passion for Possibility: A Spotlight on Sara Branch

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A Heart for Students and a Passion for Possibility: A Spotlight on Sara Branch

With more than two decades in education – and 21 years at Visions – Independent Study Academy credentialed teacher Sara Branch brings deep experience, dedication, and heart to every aspect of her work.

Before joining Visions, she spent three years teaching in a traditional school setting as a middle school and elementary school teacher. Today, she supports high school students in the Credit Recovery Program as they work toward graduation and develop plans for life after high school.

“I really enjoy helping my students discover strengths they didn’t realize they had—strengths that help them succeed in school, to be a happy person, and to reach the finish line with high school and achieve the incredible accomplishment of earning their diploma,” Sara shared.

For Sara, and at Visions, this work goes far beyond credits and coursework – it’s about belief, encouragement, and possibility. Supporting students at this pivotal stage means showing them that their goals are still within reach and that someone truly believes in their ability to finish strong.

“I treasure the one-on-one interactions with students that I get to have as a teacher at Visions. I am deeply satisfied when I get to treat each of my students as the most important person on earth – because they are!” Sara exclaimed. “Being able to have a part in building students up and giving them the environment to grow and find their hidden strengths, interests, and drive to be who they want to be and be who they did not even know they could be, is a priceless gift for me.”

Rooted in Community, Service, and Joy

Sara is a proud Sacramento native who, after spending 10 years in San Diego following high school, returned home to be close to family. She finds joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially fresh fruits and vegetables, and loves spending time in nature. Paddleboarding, hiking, biking, singing, dancing, and volunteering with family and friends are the activities that fill her up and make her feel happiest and free.

Through her dedication, compassion, and unwavering belief in students, Sara continues to make a lasting impact – one student at a time.

Black History Month: Stories From Our Students

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Black History Month: Stories From Our Students

Black History Month is observed each February to recognize and celebrate the experiences, stories, and lasting contributions of Black individuals and communities throughout history. In the United States, 2026 marks 100 years since the first national observance of Black history – a meaningful milestone honoring a century of achievement, resilience, and impact by Black Americans.

We asked students in our Rising Stars of Black Student Union (TK-6th grade) and Black Student Union (7th-12th grade) clubs what Black History Month means to them – and what they want others to know about their culture, lineage, and identity.

"As an African American, the meaning of Black History Month is so positively intricate. Black History Month is an opportunity to stop, reflect, and appreciate the hard work and prolonged heritage of African Americans in the U.S. and abroad. But it goes beyond just simply reading about and recognizing the hard work of famous figures such as Rosa Parks and Ida B Wells. Black History Month is a prime opportunity for appreciating Black excellence and highlighting those in our own families and individual communities. Ultimately, Black History Month is a beacon of hope for African Americans across the country and abroad to celebrate the positive intricacies of such a diversely gifted people."

Daniel H., 12TH GRADE

“Black History Month, to me, is a sacred observance, a deliberate and reverent pause to commemorate the indomitable resilience, intellectual brilliance, and cultural magnificence that characterize the Black experience. It is an opportunity to venerate the fortitude of my ancestors, whose perseverance amid systemic oppression, disenfranchisement, and erasure laid the groundwork for the liberties and possibilities I now inhabit. Their sacrifices were neither incidental nor abstract; they constitute the very architecture of my present reality. I regard Black History Month as an affirmation of lineage, an acknowledgment that I am the living continuum of generations who embodied courage, ingenuity, and unyielding faith. There is something profoundly humbling about recognizing that I walk in the footsteps of individuals who cultivated joy, artistry, scholarship, and community despite formidable barriers."

Paris J., 9TH GRADE

"To me, Black History Month is all about highlighting Black resilience and excellence. I want others to know that Black history didn't start or end with slavery and that we have the chance to make Black history right now. There is still a long way to go before we reach true equality in society. What type of world do we want to create for the ones that come after us and what can we do right now to be part of the solution?"

Lyrik R., 10TH GRADE

Reflection, Honor, and Celebration

Black History Month is celebrated in many ways – by listening to podcasts, reading books by Black authors, visiting Black history museums, and more – but at its core, this month is about honoring the contributions and enduring legacy of Black leaders, activists, pioneers, and change-makers.

“To me, Black History Month is to celebrate Black history. During February, I read books with my family about Black people who made a change.”

Jonathan R., 6th Grade

Thank you to our students for courageously sharing your voices and perspectives during this meaningful observance. Your stories and reflections help deepen understanding and strengthen our community.

To explore more information and educational resources, visit History.com.

Beyond the Virtual Classroom: Learning Period 6 Events

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Beyond the Virtual Classroom: Learning Period 6 Events

Students across all Visions programs had the opportunity to connect, explore new interests, and learn through a variety of engaging in-person events during Learning Period 6. Let’s throw it back!

Home School students participated in exciting wildlife events, bringing learning to life through hands-on experiences and close-up encounters with animals. These events encouraged curiosity, observation, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Online Middle School students enjoyed active and educational outings, including a roller skating event that blended fun with community building, and a visit to the Aerospace Museum of CA where students explored science, innovation, and the history of flight.

High School students connected through social and enrichment opportunities such as roller skating and bowling, giving students a chance to build friendships and unwind together.

These events reflect our commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences that support academic growth, social connection, and student engagement. See you in Learning Period 7!

Visions Students Define Success Through Mentorship Workshop

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Visions Students Define Success Through Mentorship Workshop

On February 10th, Visions In Education brought together students and staff for an empowering “LifeWork Experience: Student Activation Workshop” at Visions In Education’s main office. Facilitated by Armoni Easley of Easley Done & Co., a leadership and development coordinator specializing in helping individuals discover their strengths and build essential life skills, the workshop exceeded all expectations from participants.

Twenty students arrived anticipating they would learn the fundamentals of being effective mentees. Instead, they left with something far more valuable: the confidence and tools to become peer mentors within their own communities.

Staff members came prepared to invest in their students but found themselves on an equally transformative journey – gaining fresh insights into both themselves and the students they serve daily. 

“I had a great experience at the event, bonding and relating to the students. It was evident that these students were hungry for growth and connection. They were very welcoming, energetic and open to mentorship, which makes me want to show up for them even more. I think these events matter for Visions students because it lets them know that there's a community of adults who want to support them and guide them in their journey. I chose to become a mentor to make a positive impact on the youth and because I don't get to interact with the younger generation very often. They are an inspired bunch, full of life and they spark life into us.”

Spencer Summerhays, Business Analyst.

Building Connections Through Conversation

The workshop created an environment where authentic connection could flourish. Participants engaged in thoughtfully designed icebreaker activities, dynamic communication exercises, and organic conversations that laid the groundwork for meaningful dialogue about personal and professional growth.

The highlight of the day was a roundtable mentoring session where students asked thoughtful questions to rotating staff mentors. The questions revealed the depth of students’ reflections on their own journeys:

  • How did you navigate high school?
  • What do you wish you had known during your high school years?
  • What advice would you give to your younger self?

These comfortable conversations allowed students to gather diverse perspectives and real-world wisdom from those who have walked similar paths.

Future Events

This February session marks just the beginning of an ongoing mentorship initiative. Students and staff will reconvene in March for the second installment of this valuable series. Stay informed about upcoming events by monitoring LPAD and The Wire for announcements.

Thank you Staff Mentors & Event Organizers 

Visions In Education extends heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated classified staff mentors who generously shared their time, experience, and perspectives: Spencer Summerhays, Silvia Covarrubias, Jennifer Irish, Keely Adams, Ronaldo Gomez, and Georgina Rios.

Special thanks to our event organizers for gathering supplies, creating the event, and organizing a delicious catered lunch for all our participants: Administrative Assistant, Lindsey Nance, Director of Student Services, Mathew Patterson, Associate Director of Equity & Student Engagement, Ron Thomas, and Rachel Ou of LifeWork. 

Through collaboration, vulnerability, and shared commitment to student success, we’re building more than skills; we’re building a stronger, more connected community.

Visions Students Shine at High School Business Pitch Competition

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Visions Students Shine at High School Business Pitch Competition

Students in Visions’ Future Business Leaders Club recently showcased their creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurial spirit at the 3rd Annual National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) High School Business Pitch Competition, powered by Junior Achievement of Sacramento.

As part of the competition, students were challenged to develop and pitch an original business idea. Each team created a one-page business plan and a slide deck, delivering a five-minute pitch to judges. Presentations were required to clearly outline the problem and solution, explain how the product or service works, identify the target customer, detail marketing strategies and financials, specify funding requests and intended use of funds, and highlight how the business would give back to the community through corporate social responsibility.

All of the student teams representing Visions did an amazing job, and among the standout presentations was the winning pitch by Yassmine S. and Lyrik R., who built their concept around Yassmine’s passion for crocheting. Their business idea focused on expanding her current work into paid live, individual, and group crochet lessons offered through Zoom or YouTube, along with the creation and sale of beginner-friendly starter kits. Looking ahead, the duo shared a bigger vision: opening a café that would host live crochet sessions, offer food, and sell handmade products. As part of their commitment to community impact, they also plan to use a portion of their funds to create therapy balls for Visions students of all ages.

“Every student was a winner to me,” shared Independent Study Academy Vice Principal and Future Business Leaders club advisor Andrea Leuschen. “These students demonstrated creativity, dedication, and teamwork. They were able to turn an idea into a real business concept. One student shared how she spent two sleepless nights preparing for the competition. Watching them collaborate – disagreeing respectfully, problem solving together, and never giving up on each other – made my heart sing.”

From AI to Engagement: Visions In Education Leads Sessions at 2026 CCIS Conference

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From AI to Engagement: Visions In Education Leads Sessions at 2026 CCIS Conference

Visions In Education leadership and staff presented four educational workshops at this year’s California Consortium for Independent Study (CCIS) conference. CCIS supports independent study leaders with resources, training, and advocacy that directly benefits students in an independent learning environment.

In the spirit of getting 1% better every day, our team attends the CCIS conference not only to learn, but to lead. This year’s presentations were especially impactful as we continue to expand our services, supports, and student reach. Explore each presentation below!

Director of Instruction Sarah McFarland presented “Got AI? Smart Moves for Teaching and Learning in IS”. This session was hands-on and high-energy, showcasing how Visions In Education is using AI to support teachers and engage students in independent study. Participants had fun creating a podcast, building an AI Dream Team, interviewing Leonardo da Vinci, and designing a choose-your-own-adventure story while walking away with practical, classroom-ready AI strategies they could use right away.

University Prep Early College Principal Christina McKinnis presented two powerful sessions: “Beyond the MOU: Executing Successful Dual Enrollment Systems” and “Executing Curiosity”. 

In “Beyond the MOU”, Christina moved the conversation past compliance and agreements to focus on the systems, structures, and mindsets required to make dual enrollment work for high school students. She shared practical strategies for building sustainable college partnerships, aligning instruction and supports, and ensuring equity and access, grounded in real examples from Visions In Education’s dual enrollment program.

In “Executing Curiosity”, Christina challenged school leaders to reflect on how curiosity shows, or gets shut down, in leadership and organizational culture. Through relatable scenarios and reflective prompts, participants explored how leading with curiosity can strengthen relationships, improve decision-making, and create conditions where educators and students feel empowered to learn, grow, and take risks.

Professional Learning & Innovation Manager Victoria Soria and her team, Curriculum Coordinators Kaylee Song and Kristen Manchester, and PLI Teachers on Special Assignment April Ashton and Ashley McDonald presented “Comprehensive Systems: Curriculum, Instruction and Educator Support”. This was a two part series that had participants engage in a problem of practice relevant to their setting around curricular review and educator support. 

During Part I, our Curriculum Coordinators articulated the various curricular review processes we engage in at Visions each year for new curricular options and current curriculum implementation phases and supports. Participant discourse underscored the monumental work Visions staff have engaged in to increase student access to guaranteed and viable curricula in grades TK-12 and alignment to standards.

During Part II, our PLI TOSAs discussed the impact of Visions’ professional learning practices and coaching supports that take place across academies and departments. Being able to support our families and educators through workshops, Canvas courses and instructional coaching sessions solidifies Visions’ dedication to ensuring our family partners and educators have what they need to support each student well and is a testament to the dedicated partnership of our educators and leaders.

Thank you to our Visionaries for exemplifying our core values and showcasing the insights and practices that set Visions In Education apart.

Celebrating Our Spring Virtual Club Rush!

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Celebrating Our Spring Virtual Club Rush!

On Friday, February 6th, Visions In Education hosted its third ever Virtual Club Rush Day! Students had the opportunity to join live Zoom sessions where they learned more about participating in student clubs. 

Over 34 student clubs participated in the club rush. This spring event was designed to welcome students who enrolled later in the school year, as well as to showcase newly formed clubs that emerged after our fall rush event. The event culminated in over 100 participants per our active users on the Student Club Wire Page.

Discover Your Passion

At Visions, we believe every student deserves to find their community. Whether your child is interested in cultural exploration, creative expression, academic enrichment, or physical wellness, there’s a club waiting for them. This school year we’ve offered over 90 clubs!

“Visions being an online school, you would think people would be isolated or antisocial, but I feel that I have made good relationships with my peers through the clubs provided at Visions.” – Madilynn, a Junior in the Independent Study Academy, shared in her student spotlight.

New Clubs Include:

  • Korean Language Club
  • The Social Circle Club
  • FOUR Winds Youth Student Club
  • Anime Club

We also welcomed back clubs that provide supportive spaces for all students, including the GSA (Gay Straight Alliance) Club, Kindness Club, and The Mindset Academy Mentorship program – perfect for students who may have been hesitant to join at the beginning of the year but are now ready to connect with peers.

“Events like these create meaningful spaces for connection, reflection, and growth, reminding us that when we come together with a shared purpose, we strengthen not only individual well-being but our entire school community,” said Sofia Palma, Visions’ School Social Worker & Regional Club Liaison.

Building Community Together

We’re grateful to our dedicated club advisors who generously shared their time and passion with prospective members, and to our students who took the initiative to explore new interests. Student clubs continue to be a cornerstone of success at Visions, providing meaningful outlets for personal growth, leadership development, and lasting friendships.

“The Virtual Club Rush was the perfect way to meet some new group members and answer their questions. I look forward to seeing some or all of those new faces in our club meetings,” said Club Advisor, Alexander Butterfield.

No matter where you are in your journey with us, there’s always room to get involved and find your place in the Visions community.

Congratulations Fall Graduates – See All The Photos and Videos Here!

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Congratulations Fall Graduates - See All The Photos and Videos Here!

Congratulations to our first graduates of the Class of 2026!

We hope that you’re taking the time to celebrate your hard work and plan for your future. Whether it be college, trade school or the armed forces, you all are ready to take your next steps and we at Visions couldn’t be any prouder of you.

Thank you for choosing our school to see you to graduation and we wish you all the best in your new adventures.

Photos & Videos





FLICKR PHOTO ALBUM





YOUTUBE PLAYLIST

Visit our Flickr album for photos from checkouts and the big day and see this playlist for graduation day videos, including recordings of our speakers and student performers.

Note: Photos taken by the professional photographers on stage will be available online. You will receive a separate email with more details.

Share Your Visions Story

Did you enjoy your time with Visions? Please give us a review on Niche to tell other students and families about your experience and help future Visionaries find our school.

Spotlighting Our Grads

We are always looking to tell the stories of students who have successfully graduated from Visions In Education. If you would like to participate in a short interview for a Graduate Spotlight article, please fill out this form and one of our staff will reach out for an interview.

What's Next For Our Grads?

We checked in with our Fall graduates to see what’s next and one thing is clear: their futures are full of exciting possibilities!

  • Serving with Pride: 11 graduates shared plans to serve in the armed forces, with paths ranging from enlisting in the Air Force Reserves to joining the Marine Corps.
  • Prepared for College: 125 graduates plan to head straight to college after high school. Many are starting at community colleges like American River College and Sierra College, while others are university-bound to UC campuses such as Davis and UCLA, or private institutions like St. Mary’s.
  • Workforce Ready: Some graduates are jumping directly into their careers, with goals that include becoming forensic investigators or stepping into leadership roles in family businesses.

No matter which path they choose, we’re confident our graduates will take the skills, knowledge, and values they gained at Visions with them as they move on to the next chapter of their lives. 

Congratulations, Class of 2026!

Watch The Performances & Speeches

Black History Month 2026

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Black History Month 2026

2026 marks 100 years of nationally recognized celebrations of Black history. What began as a week-long observance in 1926 has grown into a month dedicated to honoring, recognizing, and celebrating Black history. Today, Black History Month is observed globally, uplifting the stories, cultures, and accomplishments of Black people around the world.

Resources

Take some time to check out the following Black History Month Resources:

Want to join the celebration in person? Check out this article for some ideas!

National School Counseling Week is February 2-6, 2026

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National School Counseling Week is February 2-6, 2026

Happy National School Counseling Week!

During National School Counseling Week (Feb. 2–6, 2026), we are proud to celebrate our 15 incredible school counselors and the many ways they amplify student success every day.

Our counselors bring creativity, dedication, and heart to their work, finding innovative ways to connect with students, remove barriers, and support academic, social-emotional, and college/career growth. They remain deeply focused on student outcomes, using data and reflection to guide their practice and strengthen supports for all learners.

This year, our team has also shown a strong commitment to professional excellence through their focused work on RAMP (Recognized ASCA Model Program), thoughtfully aligning systems, lessons, and interventions to best serve students and engaging fully in the application process. Their collaboration, commitment to our school community, and support for one another truly exemplify what it means to be a strong counseling team.

Thank you to our counselors for the meaningful impact you make – your work matters, and our students are better because of you.