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Student Spotlight: The Goals That Matter

March 27, 2025/in Student Spotlight

Student Spotlight: The Goals That Matter

Javier M. doesn’t waver when asked what his favorite part of playing soccer is – scoring goals. As a center midfielder, he’s used to putting the ball in the back of the net, and at only 12-years old, he’s got even more goals ahead of him.

The first time Javier put on a pair of cleats was at the age of three, the origin of his love for the game. He continued to play as he got older, training every week with the director of the Sacramento Republic Academy, Eder Quintanilla. Eder saw something special in Javier and eventually recruited him, giving him a spot on their U13 Academy team. Javier now wears bigger cleats and a maroon jersey with the number nine on the back, still as dedicated to soccer as he was at three years old.

“My best accomplishment right now has been making it to the Sac Republic team,” says Javier. “My dream is to become a professional soccer player.”

To compete at such an elite level, Javier knows he has to stay on top of skills. Between his schoolwork, he sprinkles in short training sessions in the mornings and afternoons in addition to his regular practices.

“We have to get to training at 4:30 p.m. with a 5:00 p.m. start,” explains Javier. “We do a quick warm up and do some passing drills. Then we will do some possession drills, which is when we have two teams and one team tries to keep the ball and the other team presses. We then do some finishing drills, or one versus one and drills to goal. Then we finish it off with a scrimmage at the end.”

Between practices and additional training sessions, Javier is excelling in our Online Middle School Program. A Visions student since the fourth grade, he initially enrolled in our Home School Academy after returning to traditional public school post-pandemic.

“I felt like I wasn’t doing anything productive at [traditional] school, so we started looking into home school and we found this great program and decided to pull me out and go here,” says Javier.

After two successful years of homeschooling, Javier’s credentialed teacher Jennifer Tam presented the option to transfer into our Online Middle School program, where 7th and 8th grade students are taught by Visions teachers online from the safety and comfort of home. Now, Javier is working independently and at his own pace while also learning time management, something his mom Maribel continues to remind him the importance of.

“A typical day in Online Middle school is usually when I start school at 8:30 a.m. I usually start with Science and complete my lesson for the day, sometimes two if I want to get ahead. Then I go to history, then…English. I finish it up with math and art. But on Tuesdays and Thursdays I have 9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. meetings, then I go train for soccer for 30 minutes and have lunch. Then I sit down and continue my work. I usually finish my day around 2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.”

After school, Javier hits the field with his teammates, even working in extra trainings as his schedule allows.

“Extra soccer trainings are very important for my development and to stay sharp,” explains Javier. “[Visions] has…allowed my schedule to be more flexible, so I can attend strength and conditioning and go to private soccer sessions.”

Off The Pitch

If he’s not training or doing his schoolwork, you can find Javier collecting soccer and Pokemon cards, playing video games, or practicing his French.

“Visions has allowed me to explore new extracurricular activities such as coding, learning French, typing, and currently I am taking art.”

As mentioned, Javier’s biggest dream is to play professional soccer, preferably for Real Madrid or Arsenal. But he also wants to get his college degree so he can own his own business after retiring from the pros. In the meantime, Javier will continue to focus on school, believing that whatever he chooses to do, his education comes first.

“I balance good grades while also focusing on soccer by focusing on school first and soccer second,” explains Javier. “I make sure I complete my school or am almost done so I can go and train.”

Thanks to our Online Middle School program, Javier is pursuing all of his dreams, both on and off the pitch. We’ll continue to cheer him on and look forward to the day we can get a jersey with Javier’s name on it!

Visions In Education Sends 1,000 Chromebooks To Families Affected By Wildfires

March 27, 2025/in News

Visions In Education Sends 1,000 Chromebooks To Families Affected By Wildfires

In the wake of the devastating wildfires that left many communities in Southern California reeling, Visions In Education stepped up to help families in the area stay connected. Visions joined forces with representatives from The California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), Capitol Advisors Group LLC and UPS to donate 1,000 Chromebooks to four Southern California YMCA locations (Southeast Ventura YMCA, Santa Monica Family YMCA, YMCA of the Foothills, and LA Metro YMCA).

As an organization that serves thousands of students throughout nine Northern California counties, Visions In Education knows how technology can connect people. We make use of thousands of Chromebooks and other devices that we periodically update with newer models to provide the best support for our families. Rather than sell the surplus Chromebooks as we have in the past, Director of Technology Uriel Gonzalez saw an opportunity to make an impact and help impacted families in the LA area.

“After seeing the devastation and insurmountable loss due to the Southern California wildfires, I am glad that we were able to do our part to help out those communities,” says Uriel. “This is a small gesture that hopefully goes a long way for those families impacted.”

Superintendent Steve Olmos reached out to Abigail Browning at the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) who connected Visions with Capitol Advisors Group LLC representative Christina Marcellus. Once these connections were made, organizations came together quickly to set up this delivery. Visions’ Student Technology Services team went above and beyond to process and ship 1,000 Chromebooks in a short period of time. This work, undertaken on top of STS’s usual duties, included:

Identifying, preparing, and testing Chromebooks for donation
Provided hundreds of chargersto ensure successful use
Preparing the materials for logistics like boxes, bubble wrap, and tape and packing all the devices
Coordinating with UPS to ship these machines free of charge and loading them on to a trailer

“Our STS team meticulously sorted through hundreds of returned Chromebooks and chargers, carefully grading and inventorying each one to ensure we selected the 1,000 best units for donation,” says Student Technology Services Supervisor Nick Veret. “We were fortunate to have the UPS team dedicate resources to our effort, providing us with a large trailer capable of holding multiple pallets for transport.”

The most astounding thing was how quickly this all came together; less than two weeks after we connected with YMCA, a UPS truck left Visions headquarters bound for Southern California thanks to the swift work and cooperation of dozens of people working across the state.

Building Bridges

A big thank you to everyone in Student Technology Services, including supervisor Nick Veret and STS members James Umiker, Connor Puckett, Hasib Mohmand, Sean Proctor, Rodrigo Guzman Navarro, and Tyler Nguyen for coming together so quickly to make this tremendous act of generosity possible.

This effort would have not been possible without organizations working together to help our students, including California’s Office of Emergency Services, Capitol Advisors Group LLC, and UPS who came together with Visions to quickly put these Chromebooks in the hands of students and families who need them.

Visions hopes that these devices will help families impacted by this environmental tragedy as they rebuild their homes, schools, and communities.

From Curriculum To Community: A Spotlight On The Home School Academy

March 27, 2025/in News

From Curriculum To Community: A Spotlight On The Home School Academy

As a public charter school, Visions believes in partnering with parents when it comes to their children’s education. To meet the needs of so many parents who want to be in community and collaboration with their students’ learning, we provide a Home School Academy where credentialed teachers and administrators work in partnership with parents.

“In Visions’ Home School Academy, we believe that education is most powerful when it is a true partnership between families and educators,” shared Director of Instruction Heather King. “Our goal is to provide meaningful support, resources, and guidance to ensure that every student thrives in a learning environment that is both personalized and community-driven.”

We know that our Home School families desire inclusion and involvement in their children’s education, and as partners in this learning, our Home School teachers and administrators serve an important role in fostering connection, collaboration, and community for all students.

“As a Home School Principal, my role centers on fostering adynamic and enriching learning environment,” says Principal Morgan Lynch. “My key responsibilities include promoting collaboration, advocating for student success, and cultivating a strong sense of community.”

Our Vice Principals support this core work through things such as data and caseload analysis and individualized education plans, making sure all students have equitable access to their education.

“We ensure that every student receives the appropriate support,” explains Vice Principal Cassie Backstrom. “We facilitate Family Team Conferences to collaborate with families, teachers, and students in crafting a successful and personalized learning experience at Visions.”

“I strive to meet the needs of our students academically, socially and emotionally,” adds Vice Principal and former Visions Counselor Stacy Callman. “Our counselors are actively involved in our Family Team Conferences and provide direct insight to specific coping skills and services that our counseling program offers.”

An additional layer of support comes from Administrative Assistant Hannah Blackledge and Charter School Secretary Anita Cager, whose roles are crucial to the inner workings of the department.

“Being a part of the Home School support team includes so many tasks that support the overall goals of Home School,” Hannah shares. “Working with Facilities to provide our principal teams and teachers crucial collaboration time, utilizing Fiscal’s vast knowledge to ensure our staff and students have the resources they need to succeed, supporting projects with our Curriculum team that make sure we provide top tier courses and materials. Whatever the goals for the Home School Academy are, I am right there to support them.”

“My favorite part of being on the Home School team is helping parents access the information and resources they need, fostering student success, and supporting teachers and administrators in navigating processes effectively,” adds Anita. “It is inspiring to see how much we’ve grown over the past decade and the incredible resources and opportunities we now offer.”

For Our Families

As a school focused on continuous improvement, Visions has adopted a 1% better every day mentality in all areas of our work. We are always looking for ways to better serve our families, and numerous initiatives have been implemented to increase the quality of services to our students.

“We are continuing to target individualized support for students through multi-tiered systems of support and expanding our opportunities through new Synchronous Instruction classes,” says Principal Edwina Cirelli, who’s been with Visions for close to 17 years. “Those classes just keep getting better, with increased use of technology and resources to engage students in learning and integrating Essential Standards and Learning Targets into every class.”

“When I started at Visions, I was excited about all the possibilities for students and families,” says Principal Heidi Perry.“I have found our…families to be very supportive, student focused and engaged in becoming 1% better every day!”

Our services don’t only include academic supports, but social opportunities as well, including field trip offerings, club activities, and community events.

“As part of Visions’ commitment to providing a well-rounded educational experience, both regional events and field trips play an equally crucial role in the social and personal development of our students,” explains Charter School Secretary for the Events team, Jocelyn Torres. “These opportunities provide them with the skills and friendships they will carry with them far beyond the virtual classroom.”

The Team In Teamwork

The foundational tenet of the Home School Academy is that credentialed staff work hand-in-hand with parents to personalize and deliver quality instruction to their students. In doing this, the Home School team focuses on collaboration and teamwork – our parents truly are our partners in this work.

“Our Home School families are the best! They are creative, resourceful, and eager to engage their students,” exclaims Hallie Ochoa, Vice Principal.

“In our Home School Academy, we empower students to grow and succeed,” says Vice Principal Amy Valuenzela. “By celebrating their achievements, providing individualized support, offering meaningful engagement, and working as a supportive team, we create an environment where every student feels valued and prepared to reach their full potential.”

As we reflect on a quarter century of success, we also look ahead to how we can continue to best serve our communities.

“Over the past 24 years, Visions has evolved into a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that demonstrates resilience, dedication, and vision,” says Principal and 24-year Visionary Julie Cole. “Our success over these 25 years has been built on hard work, equity, engagement and a shared commitment to our students.”

Assessment & Evaluation Manager Dr. David Villegas Graduates From The Creciente Latinx Leadership Program

March 27, 2025/in News

Assessment & Evaluation Manager Dr. David Villegas Graduates From The Creciente Latinx Leadership Program

On February 7, 2025, Visions’ Assessment & Evaluation Manager Dr. David Villegas graduated from the Creciente Latinx Leadership Program. Led by our partners at Youth Development Network (YDN), this 8-month program teaches members of the Latino/Hispanic/Latinx community how to prepare and empower the next generation of Latinx leaders.

“The Creciente Latinx Leadership Program was founded in 2021 by Doni Blumenstock, a lifelong champion of social justice, and Adrian Ruiz, the Executive Director of Youth Development Network,” explains David. “The program seeks to recruit aspiring Latinx professionals in the Sacramento region into a fellowship that provides the skills and support network each fellow needs to become an active local board or committee member.”

David and a cohort of 19 fellows met weekly to engage in different types of professional learning, including networking, strengths-development, and project-based learning. These lessons were designed specifically to educate them about the Latinx community in the Sacramento region and the issues this community faces.

“From week-to-week, sessions led by Latinx leaders, many of whom were fellows from earlier Cohorts, advanced our understanding of negotiation tactics, implicit bias, what it means to have executive presence, how to practice facilitative leadership, and how to navigate imposter feelings,” says David. “This learning experience was supported by directed readings from books that included Bargaining for Advantage and Crucial Conversations, an Inspiration Speaker Series with talks by prestigious Latinx leadership such as Julissa Arce, the author of You Sound Like a White Girl, and other community-building events.”

Each fellow was also paired with an Apoyado, or “mentor”, who met with them regularly to share their experiences, challenge their thought processes, and provide them with advice. In partnership with his Apoyado Robert Medina, Director of Policy and Advocacy for Sobrato (pictured right), David was taught how to be a better leader, learner, and community member.

“Through Creciente I sharpened my skills as a leader in everything from strategic planning and making informed decisions, to navigating challenges, solving problems, having difficult conversations and receiving constructive feedback. The ability to do that well will make me a better partner in the work that I am doing here at Visions with staff at all levels,” David shares. “Beyond that, I feel my philosophy, the way I approach work and challenges, has evolved. I’m more open today to leaning into challenges with authenticity and grace, knowing that feelings of discomfort are my brain’s way of telling me that I am growing. Most importantly, I made connections with people who, in sharing their experiences, opened my eyes to my culture and the privilege I experience, and provided me with a sense of belonging.”

David will be applying the skills he’s learned in the Creciente program to his new positions as Board Member on the City of Lincoln Library Advisory Board and the Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee, councilmember on the Placer County Child Care Advisory Board, and commissioner on the Placer County Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Commission. Congratulations David and thank you for your continued efforts to get 1% better for our communities!

Student Spotlight: Cosmetics Entrepreneur Finds Her Shine

March 27, 2025/in Student Spotlight

Student Spotlight: Cosmetics Entrepreneur Finds Her Shine

For 8th grader Anaya B., a typical day looks like this: wake up at 7:00 am, eat a good breakfast, complete the day’s schoolwork, head to tennis practice, and finish the day playing video games with her cousins.

In between her daily activities, Anaya runs her own business, Anaya’s Cosmetics & More, selling products like lip gloss and lip scrubs. As a third generation business owner, Anaya has followed in the footsteps of the women before her to continue a legacy of entrepreneurship.

“My main inspiration is that most of the women in my family like my mom, grandmother, and sister all own their own businesses and I wanted to follow in those footsteps and create my own business as a sign of independence and maturity.”

Anaya officially launched her company at the recent Children’s Business Fair in Suisun, where she won the award for “Most Business Potential” and sold over $250 in product!

“The ‘Most Business Potential Award’ is an award given to a kid with enough business skills to have the potential to have a long lasting business with a good profit and career,” Anaya explains. “It honestly meant a lot to me to earn that award considering I didn’t have a lot of faith in myself at the time since it was my first time selling anything after opening my business. It gave me a lot of confidence to keep pushing myself and my business to get bigger and better.”

You Glow Girl

Playing sports, starting companies, and winning awards might sound like a lot for an 8th grader, but coming to Visions helped Anaya focus on what was most important to her – working at her own pace, maintaining a social life, and pursuing her passions.

“I enrolled at Visions because I work much better independently but I also didn’t want to be completely alone and have the option to be able to connect with other kids my age.”

In the Home School Academy, Anaya receives support not only from her family, but from her teacher, Haley Milliken-Callan, who keeps Anaya moving forward on her academic and entrepreneurial path.

“I think I have an amazing relationship with my teacher. She helps me a lot and is amazing at explaining and also communicating with me and my brother, making us feel comfortable with her,” Anaya shares.

“Anaya’s energy is contagious and anyone would be honored doing business with her,” says Haley. “I am proud to be her teacher!”

At Visions, Anaya has also been able to expand her education through work with one of our vendors, The Discovery Hub, where she explores forensics (her favorite subject), biology, and creative writing with her $3,000 budget. Anaya would eventually love to become a professional tennis player and a forensic scientist, both things that are becoming more and more possible thanks to Visions.

“I would like to say a big thank you for all the amazing opportunities I am given now and in the future,” says Anaya. “I hope to one day repay Visions for their amazing grace.”

Independent Study Vice Principal Cristina Buss Selected As A Fulbright Fellow To Finland

March 27, 2025/in News

Independent Study Vice Principal Cristina Buss Selected As A Fulbright Fellow To Finland

Visions In Education is proud to announce that Independent Study Academy Vice Principal Cristina Buss was awarded a Fulbright Teacher Exchange award to Finland for the 2024-2025 academic year. This prestigious program fosters international collaboration and cultural exchange, preparing educators to bring new ideas and practices back to their schools.

“The Fulbright Teacher Exchange programs had been on my radar for years, and at Visions I felt passionate about expanding my learning, and supported enough by my team, to pursue this incredible opportunity,” explains Cristina. “My application focused on my desire to serve students who have been left behind by traditional schooling; I hoped to bring back best practices for supporting all students, and to learn about holding systems accountable for their outcomes. I was amazed and honored to be selected as one of eleven administrators from throughout the United States to participate in this learning experience.”

As part of the Fulbright Leaders for Global Schools Program, Cristina spent 10 days exploring Finland’s education system, visiting classrooms, meeting with teachers and school leaders, and attending the Educa conference, the largest education and training event in the Nordic countries. Cristina’s research focus during the program was how Finnish schools support students facing challenges, from learning gaps to unique needs.

“I was surprised by how many similarities I observed between the Finnish and American education systems,” Cristina shares. “The differences I did find seemed to be more based on the societal context than on specific educational practices. In the schools we visited, there was a culture of trust: teachers are trusted to educate, students are trusted to learn, and the systems are trusted to take care of the people. I’m really passionate about trying to shift our systems to serve students based on their individual needs. The focus I saw in Finland on preparing students for meaningful futures was very impactful. I hope that we can continue working at Visions to prepare our students to have the lives they want, and to track graduate outcomes to hold our systems accountable.”

“I believe strongly in the work we do in the Independent Study Academy, and I was excited about the possibility of representing Visions at a national and international level.”

1% Parempi

With a career dedicated to supporting students who have struggled in traditional educational settings, Cristina brought a wealth of experience to this opportunity. From her background as a science teacher and department chair to her leadership roles in alternative education, she has consistently championed new solutions to meet students’ diverse needs.

Cristina joins a distinguished group of Fulbright alumni that includes Nobel Prize laureates, Pulitzer Prize recipients, and global leaders. Her selection highlights her exceptional leadership and commitment to education and we look forward to supporting her in applying her learning to benefit students at Visions In Education.

Care Solace Names Visionaries As 2024 “Super Care Heroes”

February 5, 2025/in News

Care Solace Names Visionaries As 2024 “Super Care Heroes”

Visions is excited to share that two of our staff were recognized as Super Care Heroes by Care Solace, our partner in mental health care coordination to give our community access to care at no cost. The Super Care Hero Award celebrates mental health advocates, school counselors, and school mental health staff who go above and beyond to connect students to the care they need.

Congratulations to Counselor Kiely Anderson and Social Worker Sergio Fuentes on being recognized for their commitment to providing Visions students with the best support possible. This recognition highlights their dedication to changing lives in and around Visions by supporting student well-being, and creating a positive impact in our community.

Moments That Make Us

Counselor Anderson spoke to the importance of supporting families and connecting them with these resources.

“When I worked with a family who had been struggling to access mental health services for their child, they had faced long waitlists, complex paperwork, and a general sense of discouragement.”

Not all families have the same comfort level with asking for assistance, and Anderson helps to ensure those concerns are heard.

“I was able to help initiate the first step and walk with them through the process. The family was initially hesitant, as they have faced many barriers receiving support before. After being matched with the right counselor, they expressed a sense of relief and hope,”says Anderson.

What advice would you give to someone that is struggling to seek support?

“There are so many trusted adults that care about you and will guide you,” Anderson emphasizes. “It is always ok to start small. Reach out to a teacher, counselor, or other important adult in your life. Making the first step is the hardest part. You matter, and we care about you being here.”

Please join us in congratulating these amazing individuals on this well-deserved honor. Their hard work and compassion makes a difference! We are #VisionsProud of you!

Congratulations Visions In Education’s Early Graduates Of 2025

February 5, 2025/in News

Congratulations Visions In Education’s Early Graduates Of 2025

On February 4th, Visions In Education celebrated the graduation of over 220 students at our very first Fall graduation ceremony at the Sacramento Memorial Auditorium. This ceremony is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our early graduates who completed all graduation requirements by January 2025.

“To the graduating class of 2025: Congratulations! You’ve shown tremendous dedication and perseverance,” says Director of Student Services, Matt Patterson. “Keep striving for greatness – you’re well on your way to achieving things!”

Each year, Visions In Education’s graduating classes get larger and larger as we serve more students than ever before. In our ongoing effort to get 1% Better for our students, we expanded our graduation ceremony offerings to include a February commencement. Visions will also hold two June ceremonies and a Summer graduation for the rest of our 2025 graduating class.

This additional ceremony allows graduates to celebrate in real time and gives us more space at Memorial Auditorium to accommodate more families and friends that want to attend these special moments.

As we say farewell to our newest Alumni, we can’t wait to continue to serve you well after graduation! Stay up to date with our new Alumni Hall of Fame & Newsletter established this school year. Will you be our next Graduate Spotlight? Updates coming soon!

Visions grads can share their pictures by using #VisionsGrad on social media!

Getting A Head Start

For our students, no matter what they achieve in their lives, the ability to graduate early will bring benefits such as the ability to fast track their lives, start working sooner, and continue their education at their pace.

Words from our Fall Graduates below:

"Visions In Education gave me the opportunity to reclaim my education, to focus on what truly mattered, and to finish my senior year strong. I found a new sense of independence, responsibility, and strength. My only regret is not starting sooner… To Mr. Knight and Mrs. Nino, and all my teachers and staff at Visions: You didn’t just teach us; you believed in us. You saw our potential, even on days we doubted ourselves. You reminded us that education isn’t about perfection - it’s about progress. Thank you for never giving up on us."

“Mr. Kobelt because of your guidance I was able to not only get my grades up and back on track, but ALSO graduate early, which I would have never believed I could do three years ago. I will forever be grateful for you and your dedication to see me succeed.”

Parting Words

Hear from some Visions teachers who attended the ceremony:

“Corian and Alex, I’m happy I was part of your high school journeys. I can’t wait to see what you do with your future!” – Christine DeSoto, SPED Case Manager – Independent Study Academy.

“Congrats to all the grads for their hard work and dedication. They deserve this day to celebrate with Visions and their families.” – Kate Aguilar, Independent Study Academy.

“Elsie A. is well on her way to success with two college courses completed before graduating! Congratulations!” – Elisa Reuter, Home School Academy.

Thank You Staff

To the Visions staff whose collective efforts made this graduation ceremony possible, Visions extends deep appreciation. Your unwavering commitment and dedication — rain or shine — ensured that we could provide an exceptional celebratory experience for our graduating students. The successful execution of this commencement was a testament to our team’s collaborative spirit and shared commitment to student achievement.

“I want to give special acknowledgment to Jackeline Ochoa, Keely Adams, Georgina Rios, and Angelica Gallardo, as well as the entire Graduation planning team,” said Patterson, “Our team consisted of Student Services, Marketing & Communications, Facilities, the Internal Data team, and the Superintendent’s Office who provided incredible support in making graduation possible.”

Shop The Spirit Store

Need a gift for your grad? We have Visions merchandise and Class of 2025 swag available in our Spirit Store – start shopping!

Independent Study Vice Principal Andrea Leuschen Interviewed by CBS13

February 3, 2025/in News

Independent Study Vice Principal Andrea Leuschen Interviewed by CBS13

Spotted: Visions on the news! Independent Study Academy Vice Principal Andrea Leuschen was interviewed by CBS13 to promote the Sacramento Stock Market Challenge this March! In partnership with Junior Achievement Sacramento, Andrea and Visions’ Future Business Leaders Club will be participating in the challenge to gain real-world experience in financial literacy and decision-making. The Stock Market Challenge helps students develop their communication, critical thinking, and teamwork skills, and empowers them to envision a brighter future based on learned life skills.

“As an educator, I’ve seen firsthand how the Stock Market Challenge engages students in ways the traditional classroom setting can’t,” Andrea shares. “This is a chance for students to experience the thrill of decision-making in a fast-paced, competitive environment while learning financial concepts that they’ll carry with them for life.”

During her interview, Andrea represented Visions (peep the shirt and background!) and the great work our Future Business Leaders Club does with Junior Achievement Sacramento. As a nonclassroom-based school with flexibility and choice for our students, working with partners like Junior Achievement Sacramento is a great way for students to maximize their personalized education and experience these unique opportunities.

Visions-preneurs in the Making!

Andrea and the Future Business Leaders Club also participated in the 2nd Annual Business Pitch and Program Showcase. They presented a five minute business pitch about their fictional company, Love Lung, which creates customizable inhaler covers. The pitch was observed by a panel of judges, including the mayor of Citrus Heights. The club was up against some veteran schools, but that didn’t stop them from coming in 3rd place out of 12 teams!

“First, thank you to the judges who took time to listen to the students’ pitch,” Andrea shares about the competition. “And, special thanks to the National Association of Women Business Owners and Junior Achievement for providing our students a chance to compete. The students worked on their presentation virtually and Saturday was the first time they came together as a group. They showed maturity and confidence as they delivered their presentation. Words cannot express how proud I am of our students.”

Andrea would like to thank Independent Study Academy Principal Shannon Alward for her support in Andrea pursuing something that she loves, as well as Associate Director of Equity & Student Engagement Ron Thomas for giving her guidance in running a student club and allowing her to have a vision.

“When Andrea first met with me and shared her vision for the Future Business Leaders Club, I was immediately impressed with her passion and determination,” shares Ron. “She is a true role model and mentor for all members of the club. I look forward to all the wonderful things that this club will accomplish.”

Congratulations Andrea and our future leaders on your success!

Visions In Education Leadership Presents At CCIS

February 3, 2025/in News

Visions In Education Leadership Presents At CCIS

Visions In Education leadership and staff presented four educational workshops at this year’s California Consortium for Independent Study (CCIS) conference held in Burlingame. CCIS supports Independent Study leaders with resources and training that directly benefits students.

At Visions, we embrace opportunities to advance our knowledge to continue serving our mission of preparing each student to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

Visions In Education’s Presentations

Director of Instruction Sarah McFarland presented “AI Revolution: Transforming Leadership & Learning,” where attendees participated in a workshop designed to empower Independent Study schools with the latest AI tools. Leaders explored transformative AI technologies that revolutionize personalized learning, and increase student engagement and educator collaboration.

University Prep Early College Principal McKinnis presented, “Creating a Culture of Curiosity,” explaining the culture of curiosity within schools and how to work towards creating an environment where curiosity thrives. In addition, Principle McKinnis also presented, “Using Dual Enrollment to Personalize Learning,” in which she spoke about the benefit of Visions’ Dual Enrollment program that allows high school students to earn college credits while enrolled at Visions.

Independent Study Principal Shannon Alward and Independent Study teachers, Nancy Ortner, and Kimberly Grant presented “Transforming Student Engagement,” an insightful discussion on designing educational experiences to enhance student learning and including ways to expand personalized learning beyond class time.

Thank you to our Visionaries for representing our core values and highlighting some key insights into what distinguishes Visions In Education as a great place for students and staff to learn and grow at their own pace.

Whether our students are enrolling in our credit recovery program, Home School, Independent Study Academy, or University Preparatory Early College Academy, Visions leads the charge to support more students than ever before.