Entries by Ronaldo Gomez

Summer Graduation Is August 14th!

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Summer Graduation Is August 14th!

Visions is happy to announce that we will be holding a 2025 Summer Graduation!

Date: August 14, 2025

Time: 5:30 p.m. 

Location: Citrus Heights Community Center, 6300 Fountain Square Dr, Citrus Heights, CA 95621

Checkout & Ceremony Details

All potential summer graduate candidates will be receiving a letter in the mail the week of July 7th with all the details and procedures for graduate checkout and the graduation ceremony. Please refer to the following information to help you prepare:

  • Graduate Checkout: Attend a graduate checkout on one of the following dates at 11931 Foundation Place, Gold River, CA (New Location!): 
    • August 7: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
    • August 8: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Students attending Community College: Must submit a letter from their instructor or an official transcript to their Visions counselor by August 12, 2025 showing that the student is on track to pass their community college course to participate in the commencement ceremony.
  • Please return all computers, printers, and other checked-out technology equipment to the Student Technology Services (STS) Department at 11931 Foundation Place, Gold River, CA (located in the back of the building). Business hours are 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on weekdays. STS may be reached at 916-883-1624. It is helpful to bring the checkout list you received from STS when the equipment was issued to you.
  • Return all other outstanding materials (hardcover textbooks, etc.) provided to you by Visions. A list of outstanding books may be found on the “returnables” list that you can see by logging into your LPAD account. All materials should be returned to the Ordering Services Department at 11931 Foundation Place, Gold River, CA
  • All candidates planning to participate in the ceremony should arrive no later than 4:30 p.m. on August 14 for a MANDATORY rehearsal. The ceremony will begin immediately after the rehearsal; therefore, leave all personal items (purses/bags, flowers, gifts, and valuables) with friends or relatives for safekeeping until after the ceremony.
  • Doors will be opened to audience members at 5:00 p.m. 
  • Admission to the ceremony is by ticket only. Please be advised that each participant will be allowed 8 guests. Tickets will be distributed only during graduate checkout 

Note – If you do not clear all financial or material obligations PRIOR to your checkout day, you may be prevented from completing your checkout. A complete checkout is required BEFORE you can purchase your cap and gown and receive graduation tickets at grad checkout.  

Questions?

For additional questions, please send an email to graduation@viedu.org.

Grad Spotlight: Learning And Leading At Visions

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Grad Spotlight: Learning And Leading At Visions

On June 2, 2025, Tim M. crossed the parking lot at our old office to complete his Grad Checkout. After getting academically cleared and taking a quick pic in his cap and gown, Tim left as an official high school graduate and alumni of Visions In Education. Less than 24 hours later, Tim crossed the parking lot at our old office once again – not as a student, but as a member of the Student Technology Services (STS) team. Trading his academic cords and valedictorian medal for a blue and white Visions staff badge, Tim was ready to support the same community that helped shape his journey.

Tim enrolled in Visions’ University Prep Academy in 2022, one of four siblings seeking a flexible learning environment that would support their academic goals – including the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school. A driven student and determined goal-setter, Tim not only graduated early as valedictorian, but also earned an impressive 82 transferable college credits. By the time he finished high school, he had already completed nearly 67% of his Cybersecurity and Information Assurance degree at Western Governors University.

“Graduating early as valedictorian feels incredible—I’m proud and grateful. Visions truly prepared me for success by supporting me in every possible way: flexible scheduling let me work ahead, and my teachers and counselors were always there with guidance, encouragement, and resources,” says Tim. “They believed in me, helped me set goals, and gave me the tools I needed to reach them.”

From Cybersecurity to Service

In addition to his undergrad, Tim also plans to get his Master’s degree by 2026. In the meantime, he’ll be troubleshooting technology, supporting students, and maybe even moving a few bins and boxes as Student Tech Support in Visions’ STS Department.

“Tim is an exceptionally bright young man with a very promising future. He approaches difficult challenges with confidence, unafraid, and consistently demonstrates strong initiative,” says Nick Veret, Student Technology Support Supervisor. “Despite only recently entering the IT field after being inspired by a Cybersecurity TikTok video (in Tim’s own words), he’s already earning some of the industry’s toughest certifications. There’s no doubt in my mind that he’s on track for an exceptional career in IT.”

“Tim is a great employee that has a positive ‘Can Do’ attitude, always willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done,” adds Chief Operations Officer Tom Tafoya. “I wish we could clone him!!”

The hands-on experience and supportive environment in STS “make every shift meaningful” for Tim, and he is especially grateful for the opportunity to gain real-world work experience as a student without falling behind academically.

“Visions gave me the flexibility to manage my coursework around my job,” explains Tim. “I’m grateful for the chance to grow both professionally and personally and am excited to keep learning and contributing however I can.”

While in Guaymas, Mexico, Tim became friends with this little girl, who never wanted to leave his side while he played games and taught the other children. To this day she asks when Tim will be visiting next!

Tim with his team in Obregon, Mexico, where they worked with kids, gave out care packages, and brought the communities together.

Tim teamed up with some locals in Obregon, Mexico to do a gig for the community.

Caroling with friends last Christmas!

Beyond cybersecurity (ethical hacking and threat analysis, to be exact), Tim has a passion for serving people, making a positive impact wherever he can, and doing missionary work. As a former student turned staff, Tim has this advice for our Visionaries:

“For families, being supportive and involved can make a big difference in helping students stay motivated and on track for success. Students, take initiative early—talk to your counselors, explore your options, and stay focused on your goals.”

It Takes A Visions Village: Behind-the-Scenes Of Graduation Day

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It Takes A Visions Village: Behind-the-Scenes Of Graduation Day

Graduation day at Visions is a multi-faceted, large-scale event that, at the same time, feels deeply personal for many. A year of planning and coordination for staff and four years of growth, work, and determination for students come together in a single culminating moment of celebration.

Behind-the-scenes (and backstage and in basements) is a dedicated Grad Team who puts together all the pieces of the big day. From venue coordination to event planning to overseeing day-of logistics, our Grad Team truly makes the magic happen.

“As part of the Grad Team, I supported the back end of the project,” explains Administrative Assistant Lindsey Nance. “I was responsible for making sure the vendors were scheduled and ordering and purchasing things for the big day, including the diplomas. Working alongside Jackie Ochoa and Keely Adams, we all made sure that things were printed and prepared, packed in their respective bins, and ready for the facilities team to transport.”

Operations Manager Kevin Wellsfry oversees our amazing Facilities team, which includes Facilities Support Technicians Richard Eldridge and Brandon Favero, Maintenance Worker Adam Steffensrud, and Student Services Representative Manuel Garcia. Together, they do a lot of the metaphorical (and physical!) heavy lifting, everything from packing and transporting items to providing guest assistance to implementing safety measures for all staff, students, and families.

“I try to stay as proactive, organized, and as communicative as possible to effectively support my team and manager during the ceremony, and try to contribute as much as I can to these families’ memorable events,” says Richard.

Despite the work that happens behind the curtain, there are also elements to graduation day that are a bit more front-facing, such as coordinating the staff on stage and organizing our grad speakers and performers.

“I have the wonderful opportunity to work closely with the students who deliver speeches or perform at our graduation ceremony,” shares Associate Director of Equity & Student Engagement Ron Thomas. “It is truly an honor and one of the highlights of the school year for me to be part of their journey as they prepare for this special moment.”

Facilities Support Technician Richard Eldridge (left) with Rick Lilley (center) and Mike Miller (right).

Superintendent Olmos with a few of our grad speakers.

Associate Director of Equity & Student Engagement, Ron Thomas!

Collaborative and Connected

As mentioned, multiple departments – Student Services, Facilities, Counseling, the Superintendent’s Office, and more – collaborate to make this day possible. On the day of, our staff remain proactive, organized, and communicative, ready to respond in real-time to student needs. Whether it’s managing student performers, offering emotional support, or helping families navigate ticketing in every type of weather, the team never wavers.

“I would like to give a heartfelt thank you to our teachers and counselors! They provide guidance, encouragement, and an unwavering belief in our students on their journey to graduation,” shares Jamee Block, Associate Director of State & Federal Program. “Their efforts have made all the difference for our graduates and helped to shape them into confident and capable individuals ready for their next chapter.”

The best part of graduation for many of our staff members is getting the opportunity to see the product of their collective efforts. Not only does it provide a sense of achievement and purpose, but it also makes for some great memories.

“I have the best job ever…well, almost!” says Director of Human Resources Donna Glenn. “I get to talk to families who need to pick up will call tickets. We get to see all the joy in the families’ faces who are so excited to see their loved one graduate.”

Donna adds, “Why I say ‘almost’ the best job ever is one year it was 105 degrees outside and then mid-year graduation was pouring rain. I could not be prouder of the team that supports this area no matter what the weather has in store for us!”

In our pursuit to get 1% better every day, Visions’ Grad Team has continued to expand to include more voices – teachers, counselors, staff, and community members – in an effort to ensure that our ceremonies remain thoughtful and inclusive. This year, these new voices brought additional feedback and perspective, catalyzing incremental improvements to enhance both student experience and event execution.

“Our continuous improvement moves included adding a Saturday Grad Checkout, enhancing our Wellness space, and adding engaging and fun activities in the basement for students as they waited to emerge from the basement to shine for their special moment,” explains Director of Student Services Matt Patterson (pictured right, center). “With the feedback provided, we prioritized which would make the most impact and improvement.”

The Stories That Stay With Us

Every year at graduation, we know to expect the unexpected. It could be a student bringing their cat to the ceremony, doing a flip while they’re receiving their diploma, or handing their baby to family right before crossing the stage. No matter the circumstance, there are always a few stories that our team never forgets.

“At this year’s morning graduation, a graduate was accompanied to rehearsal by a California Highway Patrol captain, who revealed that he had been the partner of her father, a CHP officer killed in the line of duty 12 years ago. The graduate had long struggled with anxiety in large settings, but found success and support as a student at Visions,” explains Director of Accountability & Data Services Soren Gutierrez. “Concerned about how she would handle the ceremony, we reassured the captain that many accommodations and supports were in place for her comfort. In the end, the graduate confidently walked the stage on her own, and although I was in and out of the auditorium during the ceremony, by some small grace of God, I heard her name called and felt an incredible moment of pride that I had a small part in supporting her….but really knowing that Visions as a whole had done so much for her along the way.”

Maintenance Worker Adam Steffensrud (left) and Student Services Representative Manuel Garcia (right).

In the spotlight: Counseling Program Manager Mariah Ernst-Collins!

Our team goes above and beyond to support our students in countless ways, and graduation day is no exception. Whether it’s providing caps, gowns, or tassels to those who forget them, helping graduates who arrive without completing checkout, or offering a quiet space during the hustle of the day, our staff are always ready to step in.

This year, we even had a staff member assist a student who was experiencing homelessness, and who was attending the ceremony alone, by buying him leis from a street vendor and notifying staff so they could cheer for him as he crossed the stage. These stories connect us to purpose, and remind us that at Visions, every student, story, and success matters.

“One of the most meaningful parts of this work is seeing the excitement and pride in our students as they graduate. It’s especially memorable when you’ve supported a student throughout their journey, often from a distance—and then the first time you meet them in person is on their graduation day,” says Counseling Program Manager Mariah Ernst-Collins. “That moment, when everything comes full circle, is incredibly powerful and reminds me why we do what we do.”

Thank you, Grad Team, for your unending efforts and service. None of this would be possible without you – guides, mentors, and champions for our students. It’s good to be Visions!

Grad Spotlight: Academic Excellence Through Personalized Education

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Grad Spotlight: Academic Excellence Through Personalized Education

When Ella T. realized that her traditional public high school could not accommodate her ambitious academic goals, she made a pivotal decision that would transform her educational trajectory. Recognizing the need for greater flexibility to pursue concurrent enrollment opportunities, she transferred to Visions In Education during her junior year.

Upon joining, Ella found the individualized support she needed to excel. Working closely with University Prep Academy Principal Christina McKinnis and Counselor Julie Winalski, she developed a customized academic plan to pursue her collegiate ambitions while completing her high school requirements.

“During the spring of my junior year, I found Visions, and Mrs. McKinnis and Mrs. Winalski made me a personalized plan so I could achieve my goals and graduate with my AAs,” Ella said.

The flexible schedule provided by Visions gave Ella additional time to dedicate to her studies while maintaining her leadership role in 4-H, an organization focused on developing practical skills and leadership abilities in young people. This balance between academic rigor and extracurricular involvement became instrumental in her comprehensive development.

Ella’s Academic Achievements

At just fourteen years old, Ella began taking college courses, igniting her passion for law and policy studies. Through dedication and the supportive environment at Visions, Ella yielded remarkable academic results. Rather than struggling to balance competing demands at her previous school, she thrived in her new educational setting.

“Without Visions, I would have struggled at my previous school to achieve my goals, but with my transfer, I was able to achieve not one AA degree, but two and a certificate,” said Ella.

As a member of Visions In Education’s Class of 2025, Ella graduated with an impressive array of credentials: her high school diploma, an Associate of Arts degree in Public Policy, Society, and Law, an Associate of Arts degree in Humanities, and a pre-law certificate from San Joaquin Delta College.

Ella’s academic journey continues at UC Davis, where she will study environmental policy analysis with a concentration in political science. Her long-term goals include attending law school to earn her Juris Doctor degree, after which she plans to advocate for environmental protection while supporting farmers’ rights through policy work. Ultimately, she aspires to serve in the United States Senate.

Advice for Future Students

Reflecting on her experience, Ella encourages future Visions students to maximize the opportunities available to them.

“Take advantage of all the opportunities you can and never be afraid to reach out. Ask counselors what it looks like to take AP or college classes and take the extra step to stand out and make a difference,” advised Ella.

First Generation – Creating a Legacy

Ella’s achievements represent more than her success, they demonstrate the transformative power of accessible education and determination. As a first-generation college graduate, she views her accomplishments as proof that educational barriers can be overcome.

“As someone who has officially become a first-generation community college graduate…and heading to be a first-generation college student, [getting my AA] was one of the most rewarding things I have ever done,” Ella reflected. “Being given the opportunity that my parents never had and achieving it as young as I have, I feel I have proven that anyone can achieve a college degree regardless of their parents’ previous struggles. You may have to pave your own path, but it is extremely worth it in the end, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Through her academic achievements and passion for public service, Ella is an example that potential that can be unlocked when students receive the personalized support and flexibility they need to pursue their goals. 

Visions In Education Students Excel At National Junior Achievement Competition

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Visions In Education Students Excel at National Junior Achievement Competition

We are proud to announce that Visions In Education’s Future Business Leaders representatives placed in the top three at Junior Achievement USA‘s Future Bound program in early June. Our student team demonstrated exceptional skill and determination, earning third place nationally in the JA Titan Challenge. 

Future Bound is designed to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s dynamic world. Our representatives spent three days at Georgia State University in Atlanta, GA. 

Throughout the weekend, students participated in four competitions: the JA Company of the Year, JA Social Innovation Challenge, JA Stock Market Challenge, and JA Titan Challenge.

“The one thing that I loved most about this trip was being able to meet everyone from my team at FBL. We had such a great time just being kids and looked out for each other the entire way. Another thing I was excited about was being able to compete against the best of the best in the U.S. and then place 3rd on top of that.”

Axel, one of Visions’ attending students.

Our inaugural team, “Vision Capitalists,” competed among national competition by securing third place in the JA Titan Challenge. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it represents our school’s first participation in this elite competition. This team’s success demonstrates that dedication, preparation, and perseverance can overcome the challenges that come with being newcomers to the national event.

As one of only four schools selected to represent the Sacramento region, Visions In Education is proud to establish its presence in future academic business competitions. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Visions team for their performance and for representing our school on the national stage.

This achievement reflects not only the students’ hard work and talent but also the strength of our Future Business Leaders club in preparing students for real-world success.

We are proud of our competing team of students for representing us with great pride and passion. We are truly honored to support them in the fields that they love. 

Thank you Staff!

Thank you to Vice Principal and Club Advisor, Andrea Leuschen for her involvement in the planning and execution of this student-led experience. Special thanks to Director of Equity & Student Engagement, Ron Thomas, Visions CT Debora Sanders, and School Social Worker, Sofia Palma for chaperoning the trip!

Throwback Thursday: Communications Over 25 Years

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Throwback Thursday: Communications Over 25 Years

Before The Wire, Visions communicated our school’s important information through quarterly Visions View newspapers. Comprised of messages from Visions’ founder and former Program Director Linda Gattenbein, legislative news, celebration articles, student stories, graduation info, school calendars, and more, Visions View served as the primary means of communication to our thousands of students in our eight-county service area at the time.

Hot Off the Press

Curious what was making Visions headlines circa 2002? Check out some snippets below!

Since the days of print newsletters, our communication methods have come a long way. Our redesigned website and The Wire now keep our community informed, inspired, and connected. Both platforms have gone through their own transformations over the years — click on the images below and take a look back at our earlier versions!

From 10 to 25

This past year, we’ve been celebrating 25 years of serving students and families at Visions. But looking back at other milestones is important to understanding how we got to where we are today.

While we’re still uncovering the mystery behind the cut out heads (it has “Fred Lamora” written all over it!), the 10th Anniversary Edition of Visions View (pictured below) captures the spirit of that era with heartfelt quotes from alumni and memories from our first decade.

“I came back to show my wife and kids the school that gave me a final chance to make something of my life.” 

Jeff Rankin, Class of 2001

“My parents taught me at home when I was growing up. My mother and father got a lot of help from my Visions teacher. I can’t say enough good things about the school.”

Angela Calloway, Class of 2003

“I know I am a little old to be running around in a school T-shirt, but I wear it all the time and I secretly love having people say things like, ‘Oh, you’re a Visions graduate. I bet you’re really proud to have that name on your diploma. I wish I could have gone there.”

Melanie Johnston, Class of 2004

Our 25th Year Impact Report contains similar sentiments from leadership, including Superintendent Dr. Steve Olmos, Chief Academic Officer Dr. Micah Studer, Director of Instruction for Independent Study and University Prep Sarah McFarland, and more. Here’s what they had to say about our strengths, opportunities, and the future of Visions:

“Visions’ greatest strengths are our people—the teachers, staff, students, and families who are at the hearts of our school. Over the years, we have built a culture based on relationships, where educators work closely with students, families and each other. We are deeply committed to meeting students where they are in their personal journey.” – Sarah McFarland, Director of Instruction for Independent Study and University Prep

“We have the opportunity to create academic social-emotional learning programs that our students and our communities need. We can respond to the changing world of education as it evolves; we are not locked in one model. We can try and learn different things to create systems to help our kids.” Dr. Micah Studer, Chief Academic Officer

“[To Visions Students]: You received your education the way you did because people built a solid foundation for you. Giving back generously and holding firmly and courageously to the values that made Visions what it is can be part of your expression of gratitude, helping to preserve what you received for others.” – Mark Holman, Board of Directors Chairperson

“I believe the future is bright for schools like Visions. We are able to meet students where they are, provide individual attention, and work with them to find success. Schools like Visions can lead the way in disrupting the traditional educational system.” – Dr. Steve Olmos, Superintendent/Executive Director 

A mural that was constructed for our 10th anniversary!

Visions In Education Is Open At Our New Building!

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Visions In Education Is Open At Our New Building!

NEW ADDRESS: 11931 Foundation Place, Gold River, CA

Visions In Education is now fully moved into our new building located at 11931 Foundation Place, Gold River! With freeway access, a more modern design, and space for our growing school, our new building is now open and ready to serve our families. 

Our offices at our former location in Carmichael are now closed to the public; please go to our new office location if you need to access our services.

Hours of Service

Main Offices

Monday – Friday

8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Student Technology Services (STS)

Monday – Friday

10:00 a.m – 6:30 p.m.

Student Technology Services Located In the Back!

If you need to access Visions Student Technology Services (STS), please drive around the back of the building and enter through the marked door in the back of the building (See the map below). 

STEM For Success: Building Confidence, Community, And College Readiness

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STEM for Success: Building Confidence, Community, and College Readiness

At Visions, we offer a variety of student programs to foster learning and engagement beyond traditional studies. These programs include student clubs, Find Your Voice, California Scholarship Federation (CSF), Mindset Academy, Bride to College, and our growing Success Through Education Mentoring (STEM) program.

During the 2024-25 school year, a group of Visions students participated in our STEM program, where they partnered with University of California, Davis undergraduates from a variety of majors to learn about the requirements and skills necessary for college and post-graduation success. Through campus tours, one-on-one time with their mentors, informational presentations, and hands-on activities, our students learned the importance of community, confidence, leadership, determination, and being goal-oriented.

“I liked this club because I found it very helpful in knowing what college looks like,” says University Prep Academy student Shefaa B. “I feel more prepared and excited for college.”

“The support all year has been a blessing,” adds University Prep student Daniel H. “Meeting with the mentors gave me an opportunity to learn what college would be like on a personal level as well as plan for what I need to do. The weekly check-ins provided were also helpful and I liked the interactive aspect.”

Finding Strength Through STEM

STEM was born out of a personal vision shaped by struggle and hardship. Founders F. Ibal and K. Avila, coming from diverse backgrounds, faced numerous challenges throughout their educational journeys. However, having mentors to guide and support them made a significant difference. That experience inspired them to create a program designed to bridge the gap between high school and the next stages of education and career.

Today, Visions students benefit from the program through increased confidence, leadership, resilience, and more, gaining lifelong skills that empower them both personally and professionally.

“The program was very interactive and fun,” shares Independent Study Academy student Yasmena H. “I loved how we all got a chance to express our opinions or talk about ourselves!”

Independent Study student Ellina H. agrees, adding, “I loved how everyone was so kind and I never felt awkward to talk on Zoom.”

Celebrating A Successful Year

At the end of the school year, our STEM students celebrated their time in the program with a banquet alongside their fellow program participants. It was the perfect opportunity to reflect on what they’d learned from this opportunity and how they hope to use these skills going forward.

“It was a great way to gain valuable information not only for college but for our future,” shares University Prep student Samuel G.

“Over the two years I have been in this club, it helped me learn more about college and become more comfortable talking and asking questions,” adds University Prep student Adrien K.

Thank you to Social Worker Sergio Fuentes for managing this program, and congratulations to our students for their hard work and dedication to their futures!

Join the Program

Interested students currently enrolled with Visions can find the form information on The Wire.

STEM is a year-long program open to high school students of all backgrounds, grades, and life situations. Participating students will not only acquire the tools needed for post-graduation success, but will gain a sense of confidence and leadership while forming lasting friendships with mentors and other Visions students.

STEM meets twice a month for workshops and activities presented by UC Davis mentors in coordination with Visions staff. While the organization is based out of UC Davis, the mentoring program is facilitated at the Visions In Education office in Gold River.

Visions’ Main Office And STS Closed June 19th For Juneteenth

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Visions' Main Office And STS Closed June 19th For Juneteenth

Visions’ main office and Student Technology Services (STS) will be closed Thursday, June 19th in observance of Juneteenth. We will resume operations during regular business hours on Friday, June 20th at our new office located at 11931 Foundation Pl. in Gold River.

Resources & Information

Juneteenth is a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery. For more information, see the following resources: