Entries by Ronaldo Gomez

Project & Performance Fairs 2026: Celebrating Student Achievement and Growth

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Project & Performance Fairs 2026: Celebrating Student Achievement and Growth

Each year, students at Visions In Education have the opportunity to showcase their talents and skills that they have been working on during the course of their school year. Students are encouraged to participate by selecting a directed project to focus on. 

This year, the Visions community was treated to live performances that included students from our Latinx Success Club dancing Baile Folklorico, live music, and student poster-boards. Thank you to everyone who presented their interesting projects! 

Regional Club Liaison, Latinx Art Club, and Ballet Folklorico Advisor, Sofia Palma spoke to the students’ performances, “Being part of Ballet Estrella Folklórico this year has been really special. We had two students who started with no dance experience, and it’s been amazing to watch their growth,” said Palma, “One performed for the first time ever, and another loved it so much she joined a dance group outside of our club.”

Students work hard to hone their skills, projects, and performances for these events. Students join student clubs or work with enrichment vendors to help support skill building.

“As a group, we’ve grown a lot together, and as co-leads, we’ve also learned so much stepping into choreography and building a new club. It’s been a fun and meaningful experience all around. We’re excited to keep growing and expand into Solano County so more students can be part of it,” Palma said. 

During these events, students will present their work to Visions staff and families that were invited within their respective principal communities. The Project & Performance Fairs offer opportunities for students to showcase and answer any questions that guests may have.

Having trouble finding an interest? 

Students that would like to participate; but, find that they lack an interest to study and learn can join a student club at Visions, learn about resources from one of our webinars, or explore one of our many enrichment vendors that partner with Visions to bring learning experiences and opportunities to students both virtually and in-person. 

Students have reported that when they join a student club or participate in vendor activities, school becomes a more familiar space to facilitate their growth. By targeting student interests, Visions makes learning a personalized experience for all students. Learn more in this article where we talk about the benefits of joining a student club. 

More Than 100 Clubs and Counting: How Visions Is Building Community Beyond the Classroom

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More Than 100 Clubs and Counting: How Visions Is Building Community Beyond the Classroom

One of the most meaningful challenges for any online school is creating opportunities for students to connect beyond the screen. At Visions, we aim to make school memorable through belonging and shared passions through our student clubs program.   

Open to all enrolled students, the program has grown into something remarkable: as of May 2026, Visions supports more than 100 active clubs. That number tells its own story — that no matter a student’s interests, background, or learning style, there is a place for them here.

This year, we found new and creative ways to shine a spotlight on our student clubs. Through features, spotlights, and coverage of key moments throughout the school year, we gave students and staff the chance to share, in their own words, what draws them to get involved. Their answers speak to something bigger than any single club: a shared sense of pride, purpose, and connection that defines the Visions community.

“One of the most meaningful things I’ve witnessed this year is the growth across our club communities, from both students and advisors. At the start of the year, many advisors were building from the ground up, and through ongoing support with planning, supplies, and collaboration, I’ve seen their clubs really come to life,” said Sofia Palma, one of three Regional Club Liaisons and Ballet Folklorico Club Advisor. “In turn, students have grown more confident, more engaged, and more connected. Being able to support behind the scenes so that everything runs smoothly, and then seeing the impact that has on student experience, has been incredibly rewarding.”

Virtual (& in Person) Club Rush Days

During the school year, we hosted two club rush days, one in person and one virtually. Student Club Rush events provided students with an opportunity to meet with club advisors and learn more about the clubs that were offered. 

Students seeking community or simply working towards something of interest through our clubs helps facilitate relationship building and social interaction amongst children and teens of all ages. Students who are unable to find a club that interests them, were invited to reach out to a Visions teacher to start a new club.

Professional Development Through Clubs

This school year, members of our Future Business Leaders Club showcased their creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurial spirit at the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) High School Business Pitch Competition. 

Not all professional development happens on big stages, sometimes creating a safe space for students to talk about their interest is all that students need. 

Regional Athletic Director and School Social Worker, Sergio Fuentes, had the opportunity to attend and facilitate multiple Black Student Union Club meetings and shared the passion that students had for learning and developing in topics that interested them

“I was deeply moved by our BSU members, their passion to learn about their cultural heritage, applying historical resilience to today’s societal challenges, and the courage to have authentic and deep conversations.” said Fuentes, “To me, our clubs are more than a space, they are caring communities. They are areas where students can connect with one another, where they can be vulnerable and share their stories of perseverance, where healing happens, where hope grows. It is amazing and an honor to be part of the growth for our student clubs and sports here at Visions In Education.”

“I love being a Club Advisor for Fun Friday’s and serving as a Club Liaison, where I get to support others in creating meaningful connections with students.” said Brittaney Sparrow, a Regional Club Liaison. “Clubs are where a lot of the magic happens—whether we’re playing get-to-know-you games, learning something new like crochet, or painting outside in the grass, I’ve seen so many students grow more confident and connected. Those moments are what truly make an online school feel like a community.”

A Space to Showcase

Each year, Visions provides spaces for Home School students to engage in at our annual Project & Performance Fairs. This year we saw students share their talents in a supportive environment while highlighting the hard work, creativity, and dedication of our students throughout the year. 

Why Join a Club?

Joining a Student Club can have a profound impact on a student’s learning experience. Through student clubs, Visions is able to help facilitate learning on topics of interest that make learning fun and interesting. Students report that after having joined a student club, it makes attending future in-person events less stressful such as our in-person regional events, field trips, and school dances. 

The average student who joins a student club will typically enjoy future school events with newfound friends that are like-minded; encouraging them to reach out and build connections naturally. These skills translate into real world situations and experiences encouraging community members to stay involved within the communities that they serve or that serve them after leaving Visions In Education.

Don’t believe us? Hear from students expressing their appreciation for having clubs become an integral part of their school culture below.

“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 V., a member of the Student Newspaper Club, Debate Club & Student Council. READ MADILYNN’S SPOTLIGHT HERE.

“Visions allows me to explore different types of sports as well as giving me the opportunity to explore different hobbies such as my rug making that I personally enjoy.” – Samuel K., a member of the Indoor Soccer & Basketball Clubs. READ SAMUEL’S SPOTLIGHT HERE.

“Visions provided me with teachers that would help me and do their best to explain subjects I couldn’t understand. They provided unique opportunities for me to step out of my bubble and accomplish amazing things.” – Rebecca N., Visions Grad and former member of the Future Business Leaders Club. READ REBECCA’S SPOTLIGHT HERE.

“Community service humbles me. It shows me how much I have and to be grateful for what I own. Giving back to others makes me feel happy and grateful.” – Yumiko R., a member of the Community Service & Volleyball Clubs. READ YUMIKO’S SPOTLIGHT HERE.

“I do believe truly that a school does create the community, it teaches people how to be friends, how to communicate, it’s a very friendly environment and all of the events that I go to, all the clubs that I have signed up for , everyone is very supportive of their students and everything has been such a dream come true.” – Jessica K., a founder of the Slavic Club. LEARN MORE IN JESSICA’S FAMILY SPOTLIGHT HERE.

Find Your Voice Book Release 2026: Visions Students Publish Their Stories

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Find Your Voice Book Release 2026: Visions Students Publish Their Stories

On April 10, the Visions In Education writing community gathered to celebrate the Find Your Voice Book Release held adjacent to 916 Ink’s Imaginarium writing studio. The event introduced three published collections of student writings: This About Sums It Up, Rainy Day Diary, & Creative Chaos.

This year’s event marked an achievement for 916 Ink: the publication of its eight thousandth author since the organization was founded. Visions In Education has been proud to contribute to that growing number every year since the two organizations launched their partnership in 2011. 

Family, friends, and staff were treated to live readings from our student authors and words from our teachers who led the program. The event’s strong turnout made it necessary to open an additional space within the venue to comfortably accommodate guests and provide the best viewing experience for a student-created video showcasing the program.

Brave Voices, Big Moments

The highlight of the evening was a series of live readings from student authors, who stepped before a crowd of supporters to share their work aloud. Teachers who guided the program throughout the year also offered heartfelt remarks.

“I am so incredibly proud of and inspired by our middle and high school writers, now published authors,” said Crystal Linnet, Middle School Find Your Voice Coordinator and Visions teacher. “So many of our brave student authors got up in front of the audience to read their pieces aloud, to much applause!”

The readings drew genuine emotion from the room. “They moved us and made us laugh,” Linnet said. Quoting Find Your Voice ambassador Hilary Brugger, she added: “They’re poking me in my heart!” Linnet spoke to one piece that particularly resonated: “Before and After,” written by middle schooler Jarissa Boykin.

Middle School Find Your Voice Coordinator and Visions Teacher, Brittney Pratt, expressed the joy of seeing students meet for the first time in person at the event and their overwhelming support of one another.

“So many of our readers walked up to the podium with shaky hands and hesitant voices, but found themselves blossoming at the mike, reading pieces that are powerful, personal, and vulnerable,” Pratt said. “Watching how they support each other with loud cheers or a silent, consistent presence. I’m so proud of all of our students and the families that show up for them. It is an endless delight to be part of a team of people who care about helping students be the best version of themselves.“

Students who preferred not to read aloud had the option to have their work shared by a peer or teacher, ensuring every author’s voice was heard in some form.

About Find Your Voice

The Find Your Voice Writing Class is a free, semester-long program that meets once a week virtually. Open to middle and high school students, the program uses creative writing as a tool for self-discovery, confidence-building, and storytelling — no prior writing experience required.

Students are encouraged to write about topics that genuinely interest them, in a collaborative environment designed to help them discover their potential. Those who have completed a previous Find Your Voice semester may also apply to serve as peer mentors, further developing their skills through teaching and supporting newer writers.

Check out the video below to learn more about the program from past participants!

Congratulations to Our Authors

After the readings concluded, 916 Ink hosted a signing session where students autographed copies of the books and left personal notes reflecting on their experience with the program.

A special thank you goes to event coordinators Lindsey Nance and Georgina Rios for their work behind the scenes to make the evening a success.

Congratulations to Visions’ newest published authors. Your stories matter and your voices have been heard.

Building Bridges: About the Bridge to College Program

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Building Bridges: About the Bridge to College Program

Are you ready to be the first in your family to go to college? The Bridge to College program is here to help you turn that dream into reality. Designed specifically for first-generation college students, this program provides guidance, mentorship, and the skills you need to confidently navigate the college journey.

A partnership between Visions In Education and Paper Wings Creative Consulting, LLC, Bridge to College supports 10th, 11th and 12th graders as they prepare for higher education, from understanding financial aid to building the academic and emotional skills necessary for success.

Why Join Bridge to College?

First-generation students often face unique challenges when it comes to college – uncertainty about applications, enrollment, and finances can feel overwhelming. Bridge to College provides personalized support, mentorship, and practical tools to help you overcome these obstacles and confidently take the next step.

Students in the program will enjoy:

  • Monthly Meetings – Engage in guided discussions with peer college mentors and fellow participants using the You Belong @ College workbook, designed to strengthen the skills and mindset necessary for college success.
  • College Campus Field Trips – Explore local college campuses alongside your parents or caregivers, gaining firsthand insight and inspiration for your future.
  • Peer Mentorship – Meet one-on-one monthly with a peer college mentor who provides guidance, encouragement, and support tailored to your college goals. These sessions help you set goals, navigate challenges, and stay motivated.
  • Dual Enrollment Opportunities – Opportunity to earn both Visions and college credit through a Dual Enrollment course, reinforcing the skills and lessons from mentorship sessions.
  • Family Engagement & Community College Focus – Families are encouraged to participate, and the program highlights accessible pathways, including community colleges, to ensure all students feel prepared and supported.

Knowledge, Confidence, and Community

Bridge to College is more than a program – it’s a community of peers, mentors, and families working together to help first-generation students succeed. You’ll gain the knowledge, mentorship, and confidence to navigate college applications, financial aid, and enrollment, while building the emotional resilience and academic skills that will carry you through your higher education journey.

“As a senior in high school as well as the first in my family to go to college, I was very nervous about college. I was nervous about getting to my classes and just reaching out when I needed help. The Bridge to College program has helped me prepare for college."

Romela K.

"The Bridge to College program has helped me feel more confident about the college application process and feel less stressed. The support from mentors and structured guidance made everything feel more manageable. I now feel more prepared and excited for my future in college."

Sadeya J.

"The Bridge to College program helped me prepare for college in many ways. By having helpful conversations with active college students, going on fun and educational trips to different schools, and studying a detailed and informational workbook, I now feel prepared and excited for this next step."

Gianna S.

If you’re ready to start the journey toward college, Bridge to College is here every step of the way.

To learn more about all of the mentorship opportunities available at Visions, visit our Student Mentorship page on The Wire.

Farmworkers Day is March 31, 2026

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Farmworkers Day is March 31, 2026

Farmworkers Day is a time to recognize the vital contributions of agricultural workers and the ongoing struggle for fair labor conditions in the farming industry. Observed on March 31, the day highlights the collective contributions of farm laborers past and present.

Farmworkers Day serves not only as a tribute but also as a call to action. It encourages people to learn more about where their food comes from, support fair labor practices, and advocate for policies that protect the rights and dignity of those who work in agriculture. Today and every day, we honor the tireless efforts of these farmworkers and laborers who keep our communities fed, our economy moving, and our future growing.

Resources:

A Night of Music and Masquerade: Recapping Our Junior/Senior Prom!

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A Night of Music and Masquerade: Recapping Our Junior/Senior Prom!

At the Tsakopoulos Library Galleria in downtown Sacramento, Visions 11th and 12th grade students gathered for our Phantom of the Opera-themed Junior/Senior Prom. With ornate masks, flowing gowns, and dramatic flair, our students arrived in style for a magical night.

Inside, the evening was brought to life with floating candles and complimentary masks lining the DJ stage. A 360° photobooth captured every angle of the fun, while an elaborate Phantom of the Opera–inspired backdrop – complete with music from the film – offered the perfect setting for unforgettable photos. The experience was elevated even further with catering by Randy Peters Catering, who provided fruit trays, meatballs, tater tots, bacon-wrapped chicken, steak medallions, cookies, brownies, and more, tying it all together into a truly immersive night.





CHECK OUT ALL THE PHOTOS HERE!

Making Magic

School dances are valuable opportunities for students to build connections and strengthen their sense of community. They bring students together in person for connection, celebration, and fun, contributing to a more meaningful and memorable high school experience.

“With many helping hands, we successfully brought to life a beautiful Phantom of the Opera–themed Prom Night for our 11th and 12th grade students. From the dedicated staff who arrived early to decorate, to those who stepped in to chaperone, every detail was supported with care and teamwork,” shared Events Coordinator Lisa Adams. “A special thank you to Christina McKinnis for bringing this theme to life, along with the support of staff members who helped make the vision a reality.”

Thank you to the staff who worked so hard to make the evening special – from creating beautiful decorations to taking pictures and making our students the stars of the show! And thank you to our 11th and 12th graders for showing up, celebrating together, and making the night so memorable.

Bowling, Basketball, and Babysitting: Recapping Learning Period 7 Events!

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Bowling, Basketball, and Babysitting: Recapping Learning Period 7 Events!

Learning Period 7 has officially wrapped up, and we’re celebrating all the fun we had at each of our regional events!

Home School students hit the lanes for some bowling, joined by parents and their Visions teachers. They were days full of connection, laughter, and interactive fun for everyone! Students even got to participate in “Bowling Bingo”, working to complete fun squares on their bingo cards such as meeting a new teacher, laughing off a gutter ball, and getting a strike. Our Home Schoolers embraced the challenge with enthusiasm, celebrating each other’s progress along the way and leaning into a great opportunity to meet new friends and make new connections.

Online Middle School students also enjoyed a day at the bowling alley, gathering for plenty of strikes and snacks (mini corn dogs included!). In addition, OMS students had the opportunity to attend a virtual “Babysitting Like a Pro” workshop through Outschool. During the session, students learned the ins and outs of babysitting, including how to be a responsible caretaker, handle common challenges, and respond effectively in an emergency.

High school students had a wide range of exciting events to choose from during this learning period, including a Stockton Kings basketball game, mini golf, and even line dancing! Each event was filled with movement, music, and, most importantly, connection.

High schoolers also participated in enriching learning experiences, such as a visit to the Crocker Art Museum for a day of art and culture, and a virtual “Intro to the Stock Market” course through Outschool, where they gained valuable real-world knowledge about investing and financial literacy.

One of the biggest highlights of the learning period was, of course, the Junior/Senior Prom! Our 11th and 12th graders came together for an unforgettable evening at a Phantom of the Opera–themed dance, filled with music, masquerade, and plenty of photo booth fun. It was a magical night of celebration and connection – a heartfelt thank you to all the students and staff who helped make the evening so memorable!

Whether in person or online, we loved seeing our students learn, explore, and grow together! See you in Learning Period 8!

Home School Living History Day 2026 Brings History to Life!

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Home School Living History Day 2026 Brings History to Life!

On Monday, March 9, 2026, students and families from the Bay Area Home School Academy gathered at the Pleasant Hill Community Center for an engaging and memorable Living History Day event.

Living History Day has grown into a valued tradition within the Bay Area community. The event brings students and families together each year to celebrate learning through creative presentations, interactive activities, and meaningful opportunities for students to share their knowledge and research. The gathering highlights the strong partnership between families, students, and educators and reflects the community’s commitment to engaging, student-centered learning experiences.

History Through Storytelling

Students stepped into the roles of influential historical figures, presenting their research through creative display boards, costumes, and oral presentations. As families and visitors moved through the room museum-style, they had the opportunity to stop at each presentation, listen to students share their learning, ask questions, and learn more about the impact these historical figures had on the world.

Throughout the event, students portrayed a wide range of notable leaders, scientists, artists, and changemakers from across history, including Abraham Lincoln, Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, Sacagawea, Leonardo da Vinci, Marie Curie, Jane Goodall, Malala Yousafzai, and Martin Luther King Jr., among many others. The variety of figures represented highlighted both the depth of student research and the creativity students brought to their presentations.

One of the most meaningful elements of the event was a “Positive Post-It” station, where parents and visitors were invited to leave encouraging notes for each student presenter. By the end of the event, every student had received thoughtful messages celebrating their hard work, preparation, and presentation skills.

Students and families also enjoyed a special in-person Mobile Ed presentation featuring Thomas Jefferson, which added an engaging and interactive learning experience to the day.

Living History Day is a unique opportunity for students to develop their research, communication, and presentation skills while sharing their knowledge with the community. This year’s event was a wonderful day highlighting the creativity, confidence, and enthusiasm of Bay Area Home School Academy students as they truly brought history to life!

Education on the Court: Building Visions Basketball from a Strong Foundation

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Education on the Court: Building Visions Basketball from a Strong Foundation

Visions Basketball program continues growth in its third year competing. This year brought more than just new jerseys, new and returning players spoke to the program as being a space where they learn values such as hard work and not giving up while being able to practice in a discipline that they enjoy. 

“These are all skills they will be able to apply in their professional and academic lives. It is also an outlet for them to express themselves.” said Sergio Fuentes, Regional Athletic Director. “They talk, share jokes, laugh, cry, and hope on that court, their parents and guardians watch with anticipation as the last buzzer rings.”

Players participate in team practices on Tuesdays and participate in league games on Thursdays in front of their friends and family.

“This isn’t just basketball. It is Visions Basketball, and it is Education on the Court. If you have the chance, please come out and check out one of our games. Big shout out to all our players, families, coaches, refs, and league!” Fuentes added.

Game 2 Recap: Visions Team A V. Kinney High School

With just five players suiting up, Visions Team A put on a performance against Kinney High School, winning by a final score of 49–14.

From the opening tip, Team A dictated the pace of play. Their ability to turn steals into fast breaks created a offensive rhythm that Kinney could not contain. What began as a physical game quickly shifted in Visions’ favor, as the team’s composure and teamwork proved too much for their opponent.

Visions 12th Grader and first-year player, Ajani R. had a message for future players considering joining the program, “If you like hard work, if you like putting in work, then it would be a great opportunity for you to showcase your talents. I don’t think I came to Visions for basketball; but, the basketball program is really good, so I like it.”

Ajani’s commitment to the program is reflected in the sacrifices his family makes to support him. His mother, who attended the game, shared that they drive over an hour to every practice and game – a testament to just how much the program means to their family. “It’s been great so far,” she said. “He really enjoys it.”

Coach Tannous spoke to the determination our players had to endure during the season and how keeping spirits up was never an issue. 

One of the season’s most memorable moments also came from Team A, not in a win, but in a forfeit. Arriving at the game without enough players to take the floor officially, the team was allowed to scrimmage 4-on-4 with the players that were present from both teams.

Coach Tannous reflected on what that moment meant, “The team stepped onto the court and gave everything they had, playing with heart and pride despite knowing it wouldn’t change the loss. In that moment, it felt less like a forfeit and more like a championship win.”

Congratulations to Team A: Ajani R., Tristan C., Zambia B., Gabriel W., Samuel K., and Alex B. (DNP – Did Not Play).

“It’s been great working with you all this season and I’m thankful for your time and dedication to each other. You all are capable of accomplishing and doing amazing things on and off the court! In the words of the legendary Coach Pat Summitt, ‘Attitude is a choice. What you think you can do will most likely happen.’"

Nicole TannousCoach

“Thank you for showing up and giving it your all every day. The growth, resilience, and teamwork you’ve built this season have laid a strong foundation for the future. I’m excited to see how this program continues to grow in the seasons ahead.”

Sander SalgueroCoach

“I believe learning happens on and off the Court. I recall during a recent game, the opposing team was being aggressive with their defense. Coach Nicole and Sander gave great feedback to our students in being able to manage their stress and stay effective as a team. Our coaches also did a great job in listening to our students and validating their concerns. This trust was essential for our students to share their perspectives and be open to feedback. Our students finished off strong and did a great job in collaborating as a Team.”

Sergio FuentesRegional Athletic Director

If you’d like to come out and cheer on our players in the playoffs, upcoming games can be found on the Visions Athletics Wire page. Come see for yourself what education on the court looks like.

Transforming Special Education with AI: Visions Leaders Present at State Symposium

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Transforming Special Education with AI: Visions Leaders Present at State Symposium

Jessica Lauder, Director of Special Education, and Sarah McFarland, Director of Educational Technology, were featured presenters at the Inspiration to Action Symposium, hosted by the El Dorado County Office of Education Charter School SELPA on February 11 in Sacramento. The symposium brought together special education leaders and educators from across California to share innovative practices, collaborate with peers, and explore strategies that improve outcomes for students with diverse learning needs.

Lauder and McFarland presented a session titled “Leading in the Age of AI: Empowering Charter School Leadership, Learning, and Inclusion.” Their presentation focused on how emerging AI tools can support educators in creating more inclusive, efficient, and responsive learning environments for students receiving special education services.

During the session, participants explored practical strategies for using AI to assist with instructional planning, differentiation, and administrative tasks. Lauder and McFarland emphasized the importance of thoughtful and ethical AI implementation while demonstrating how these tools can help educators better meet the diverse needs of their students.

This opportunity to present at the Inspiration to Action Symposium highlights Visions In Education’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and thoughtfully exploring the role of AI in expanding equitable learning opportunities for all students.