Entries by Ronaldo Gomez

Visions’ 2025 Niche Rankings Announced!

Visions’ 2025 Niche Rankings Announced!

Niche.com is the leading search tool on the internet for finding schools. They just released their 2025 rankings and Visions is proud to share that we came out on top!

Niche compiles its rankings by looking at schoolwide data and reviews from students, parents and teachers.

“Though quality data is a priority, we know that a school is more than a collection of stats.” Read more about Niche’s ranking methodology here.

Rising Stars In Education

Visions claimed spots within the Top 5 in the greater Sacramento area and the county itself. Many of the schools that came in a bit ahead or a little behind had much smaller enrollment numbers and many were also classroom-based.

As an independent charter school serving over 7,500 students virtually in nine counties, we are #VisionsProud of our rankings!

Share How You Are #VisionsProud

Give us a review on Niche! By sharing your experience, you’ll help other students and parents learn about how Visions might be a good fit for them. Plus your reviews will also help us rank in 2025. Click here to share your thoughts.

We’re so proud of our students, families, teachers and staff for earning this national distinction.

Sacramento County

#3 Best Charter Middle Schools

#3 Best Charter Elementary Schools

#5 Best Charter High Schools

Sacramento Area

#5 Best Charter Middle Schools

Streamlining Success: A Spotlight On The Business Systems & Support Department

Streamlining Success: A Spotlight on the Business Systems & Support Department

As one of the largest charter schools in Northern California, Visions has been ahead of the curve when it comes to utilizing technology to enhance our families’ experience. With tools such as LPAD, PLSIS, and SchoolsPLP, we’ve developed our internal systems to strengthen and streamline everything from ordering curriculum to finding events to getting connected to vendors.

Behind these systems is a strong team of analysts who ensure that these tools are well-maintained and functioning at their highest capacity. Led by Associate Director of Business Systems & Support and 20-year Visions veteran Tania Houchin, this team’s work with Visions’ systems, CALPADS, vendors, and more is essential to both staff and student success.

“I supervise the Vendor Services Team and three (soon to be four) Business Analysts. All together we ensure that all of our major systems, LPAD, School Pathways and SchoolsPLP, are working correctly not only for students, parents, vendors, teachers, and internal staff, but also for all of the state reporting requirements such as CALPADS (California Longitudinal Pupil Achievement Data System), for our yearly audits, and for ADA (Average Daily Attendance) reporting, which funds our school,” says Tania.

Because our staff and families rely so heavily on these systems, it’s important that they are both advanced and adaptable. For example, LPAD, formerly known as Launchpad, is a trademarked system used only by Visions that has been refined and developed for over a decade. What used to be several different applications has been integrated into one platform for our families, and is constantly being evaluated and improved behind-the-scenes by the analysts on this team.

“We do a lot in the background to ensure systems run smoothly by continuously monitoring data, troubleshooting issues, and testing updates,” explains Senior Business Analyst Carl Sorensen. “Our department also works with other teams to ensure they have the resources and tools they need. This work might include streamlining processes, testing new features or integrations, or addressing operational bottlenecks.”

“My team is always working on improving workflows and making things simple and user-friendly,” says Tania. “I really appreciate that every member of my team takes the initiative to make recommendations about things that could be improved anytime they have an idea. Our hope is always to simplify systems to leave more time to support staff and students.”

Smooth Operations

Overseeing these high-reach, high-impact tools requires diligence, collaboration, and a unique skill set, something each member of the team brings to the table.

Tom Murphy, the newest Business Analyst on the team (quote “About 8,577,118 seconds* seconds at the time of publishing this”), works with data loaders and PLSIS, helping build tools to support instructional oversight.

“Our goal is to make the jobs of employees in other departments easier,” explains Tom. “We build fun tools to give other teams streamlined access to data.”

Business Analyst Carlos Palomo primarily supports SchoolsPLP, Naviance, and Canvas. SchoolsPLP is especially important to our families, functioning as the learning management system for all three academies and our new Online Middle School program.

“We are able to support many different aspects of the backend of Visions,” says Carlos.

Carl is the CALPADS king, overseeing Visions’ state reporting, as well as permissions, system issues and settings, and various annual processes.

“One of my responsibilities is the State Reporting for our school, including CALPADS, CBEDS (California Basic Educational Data System), and Civil Rights Data Collection,” says Carl. “There’s a substantial amount of data from many sources that is involved in these reports.”

Vendor Support Analyst Kristin Shumaker and Student Services Representative 1 Julie Yoder work hand-in-hand to support our 600+ Enrichment Vendors and 53 Vendor Sponsors, including managing contracts, activating vendor portals, assisting with LPAD, and, most importantly, managing vendor relationships. This is especially significant for our school, as our vendors provide services that broaden and enrich our students’ education.

“Our vendors are almost as amazing as our students!” says Kristin. “It’s exciting and fulfilling to know that the things that I do to support our vendors allows our students to participate in activities that they may not have been able to participate in without our Enrichment Vendor program. We now even have a vendor who offers a special effects (SPX) prosthetics makeup course. How cool is that?!?”

From All Angles

Part of what makes this team so dynamic is their multifaceted levels of experience. Julie is a former member of the Ordering Services Department, and is now able to split her time between supporting Kristin and continuing to support our ordering team. Her ability to see how departments and responsibilities are intertwined gives Julie a unique perspective on the intricacies of the organization.

“The transition [from Ordering Services to Vendor Support] was smooth due to my experience processing eVouchers in Ordering Services. I had previously handled eVouchers concerns and modifications via our Help Forms and the Voucher Questions email box. I believe this new role has bridged Ordering Services, Vendor Support, and students to help resolve eVoucher questions and issues efficiently,” explains Julie. “It is also freeing up some time for our Vendor Support Analyst to focus on ‘1% Better’ improvements to our Enrichment Vendor Services and relationships.”

Similarly, Tania was previously an Independent Study Academy Principal on the Instructional side of Visions. In that role, Tania was deeply involved with all of our systems, even being taken off caseload to support the implementation of School Pathways full-time. This background made the transition to Business Services much easier, and helped facilitate further collaboration between the two sides of the organization.

“I think that my background on the Instructional side of Visions is invaluable to my current position,” states Tania. “I’m able to bring a different perspective to conversations happening in Business Services which has greatly helped not only in day to day operations, but also when discussing larger projects being developed.”

Regardless of experience or expertise, each person recognizes both the value that they bring to their team and the value of the people that they work with.

“I like the camaraderie within the group. Not just supporting each other with work, but mental breaks as well,” says Carlos.

“We provide each other with a second set of eyes when needed, and work as a soundboard for each other when brainstorming the best ways to solve a particular problem,” adds Tom.

“The Business Systems & Support team is awesome to work with!” says Kristin. “We are always willing to help each other out to solve a problem or talk through a solution. We all truly care about what we do.”

“The Business Systems & Support Department is a very hard working and important team that completes a lot of behind the scenes tasks that are often unseen but are vitally important. Even though this team always has a lot going on, they are always super helpful and willing to help out wherever they are needed. I appreciate their diligence, hard work, focus on accuracy, consistent emphasis on improving, and especially their positive attitudes. They really do have a positive impact on all of the students, families, teachers, and staff at Visions.” – Michael Brubaker, Senior Director of Operations

Celebrating Filipino American History Month

Celebrating Filipino American History Month

Each October, we recognize Filipino American History Month. FAHM commemorates the first recorded presence of Filipinos in the United States, dating all the way back to October of 1587. After being proposed by the Filipino American National Historical Society board of trustees in 1992, Filipino American History Month is now recognized annually and globally, and honors the significant role that Filipinos have played in our country’s history.

Resources & Information

Across the globe, communities come together during this time to celebrate the rich history and cultural legacy of Filipino Americans. Learn more below!

October Is Bullying Prevention Month

October Is Bullying Prevention Month 

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. This time calls to end bullying, promote kindness and acceptance, and unite for inclusion. Join us in ending bullying and changing our culture.

Resources & Getting Involved

“Allowing students to be involved in bullying prevention efforts has a great impact. Students feel empowered by being directly involved in analyzing bullying issues, creating ideas to help solve the problem, and enact creative solutions. Student-led bullying prevention initiatives give students self-efficacy and a sense of agency with leadership.” – PACER.

See below for some important resources and ways that you can show your support:

Learn more about Bullying Prevention Month and how to participate here.

Hear from alum Angel, who shared her story about finding Visions after struggling with bullying in this article and video

Congratulations To Our #VisionsFirstDay Gift Card Recipients!

Congratulations to Our #VisionsFirstDay Gift Card Recipients!

Thank you to all of our students and families for sharing your back to school photos! It was great to see so many happy faces ready to learn. See all the photos in the #VisionsFirstDay 2024 album on Facebook!

This year we have six winners – check out their photos below!

Congratulations Ryann T., Keira & Rylie R., Isaac M., Nolan & Violet W., Naomi B., and Kingston V.! Winning families will be contacted by email. We hope everyone has a great year and thanks again for sharing your memories!

Connecting With Students Through School & Sports: A Spotlight On Kyle Novak

Connecting With Students Through School & Sports: A Spotlight On Kyle Novak

Prior to becoming a teacher, Kyle Novak was a soccer player, a hopeful Hogwarts student (he was truly disappointed when Hedwig didn’t drop him a letter and Hagrid didn’t bash in his door to tell him he was a wizard on his 11th birthday), and a graduate student at the University of Oregon. Originally wanting to become a professor of Chinese history, Kyle spent six years studying Chinese language and culture, receiving a BA in History from Whitworth University and an MA in History from the University of Oregon. Despite a great experience being an Oregon Duck, including serving as assistant coach for the Women’s Soccer Team, Kyle came to the realization that his true passion wasn’t in Chinese history, but in working with students.

“As fun as it was researching calligraphy and pirates in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, I realized that I was more interested in working with students and helping people grow towards meaningful goals,” says Kyle. “[So], I moved to Sacramento with my wife, took a job teaching English, and got to work on my credential.”

Kyle has now been an Independent Study Academy teacher at Visions for four years. As someone who lets student learning and engagement lead, Kyle is constantly taking on new challenges, including coaching our first ever soccer club last year and becoming a New Teacher Mentor.

“I love working as a partner and coach for my students and their families,” says Kyle “I love that I get to connect students to resources and give them every opportunity to get where they want to go.”

Goal-Oriented

As mentioned, soccer has been part of Kyle’s life since he was young. As both a player and a coach, Kyle has been involved with rec soccer, comp travel teams, DI and DIII colleges. From playing in an adult league to coaching his sons’ youth team and Visions’ soccer club, he loves the way the sport can bring people together.

“I have really enjoyed connecting with our students who didn’t grow up speaking English but we share a love of soccer,” says Kyle. “It’s a good day when I’m playing games with students at the in-person events and with athletes who are part of the Visions soccer team.”

Even greater than the lessons on the field is the learning off the field, which Kyle facilitates through continued collaboration with his students, families, and teachers in his cohort. At the forefront of everything he does is student success and experience, which Kyle uses to guide his day-to-day work.

“I really enjoy collaborating with teachers across communities on various student projects and in supporting teachers who are new to Visions,” Kyle explains. “When something we do isn’t working, we pivot and find what works better to increase student outcomes and experiences.”

Pictured right: Kyle and student Amal M. ready to play some soccer at a regional event!

Closing the Gap

Bridging the world of academics and athletics can help students learn fundamental skills, including communication, discipline, and resilience. Kyle is fortunate to be able to meld his passion for soccer and student success here at Visions, something made possible by not only his ambition, but by leadership in the organization.

“Big shoutouts to both Ron Thomas, our Equity Warrior and Student Engagement leader who makes it possible for athletic coaches and club advisors to do what we do, and to Principal Alward, who does an amazing job of supporting the teachers in her community so that we can do our best work for students and their families,” says Kyle. “I’m very grateful for the chance to do this work.”

“I’ve really enjoyed running the Visions soccer club. For most students, unless they play competitive club soccer, there’s very few opportunities to enjoy playing on a team when you get to high school. Our program is extremely inclusive. The team is coed, and skill abilities are welcome – the biggest common factor is that they love soccer. They want to compete and be part of a team. I was extremely impressed with out team last year in their ability to come together and work hard for each other, and I’m very much looking forward to this year.”

Visions In Education COO To Present At Amazon Business Reshape Conference

Visions In Education COO To Present At Amazon Business Reshape Conference 

At Visions, technology powers almost everything we do. Our trademarked LPAD Student Support System™ has continued to expand and improve over the years and this progress wouldn’t be possible without our partnership with Amazon Business. 

Since 2015, we’ve partnered with Amazon to strengthen ordering processes for our school. As a school that operates in nine California counties across hundreds of square miles, our ability to quickly and efficiently order curriculum and supplies for our families is non-negotiable. In the beginning, this partnership helped us serve around 4,000 students and resulted in $160,000 in Amazon purchases. Now, this integration helps over 7,400 students and 500 staff process $3.35 million in annual purchases that support our educational work.

This seamless connection allows our staff to focus on teaching and supporting students instead of spending hours processing paperwork and payments. Additionally, it gets materials to our families fast so they are prepared and ready to get the most out of their education. 

Sharing Our Story

Chief Operations Officer, Tom Tafoya, has been leading the charge when it comes to improving LPAD and expanding our capabilities with Amazon. Our model is a great example of what is possible for other schools so this year he is presenting at the Amazon Business Reshape Conference in Dallas, Texas!

Tafoya will join Amazon Business’ Director of Products and Technology, Satya Mishra, to explain how application programming interfaces (APIs) can streamline purchasing, reporting, user management and more.

As one of the largest charter schools in Northern California, investing in technology has been integral in sustaining a positive student experience for over 25 years. We look forward to sharing how our partnership with Amazon Business supports our families and how it could benefit other organizations as well.

Celebrate Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month!

Celebrate Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month!

Each year, Visions In Education takes part in commemorating National Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month. Americans observe Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month from September 15th to October 15th by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of those whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week and was expanded in 1988 to cover a 30-day period.

Why September 15th?

September 15th coincides with the anniversary of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile celebrate independence days on September 16th and September 18th. Día de la Raza, which is October 12th, falls within this 30-day period.

Join us in celebrating by checking out some of the resources below!

Resources and Events

Graduate Spotlight: Taking His Education Into His Own Hands

Graduate Spotlight: Taking His Education Into His Own Hands

Colbey P. is a proud alum of Visions In Education. A student for two years in our Independent Study Academy, Colbey graduated as part of the Class of 2023, completing his work at his own pace and receiving his diploma early.

“I initially enrolled [at Visions] to challenge myself and try something new after already being successful in the classroom,” explains Colbey. “Visions gave me a support system of teachers and counselors who were willing to help 24/7, as well as gave me and my education a dedicated focus. Getting my diploma early opened up a lot of opportunities for me.”

Colbey’s credentialed teachers, Cheyenne Canada and Barbara Platt, supported Colbey through his entire journey at Visions, setting him up for success in both his high school and postsecondary education.

“Colbey was such a fun student to work with. He always gave his best effort in his classes, showed up for his meetings with a good attitude, and was happy to share about different things happening in his life,” says Cheyenne. “He had a strong interest in his Economics class and it was great to see him excited about school and learning.”

“I was able to succeed at Visions because the school helped provide me with a balance of school and other important things in my life, like spending time with my family, continuing my hobbies and getting my first job,” says Colbey. “Visions gave me the tools to be as hands-on as I wanted with my education, while still preparing me for life once high school finished.”

World-Ready

At Visions, Colbey was able to focus on his high school education, including working ahead to complete classes and taking behind-the-wheel driver’s ed, while also setting himself up for the future.

“Since graduating in the Fall of 2023, I have continued to work at that same job I started when I was at Visions. I enrolled at Cosumnes River College and completed my first semester in May, majoring in Psychology,” Colbey says.

His advice for current and future students is this – “You are never alone in this confusing time.” Like we did for Colbey, Visions provides support staff, extracurricular activities, social opportunities, and more to make the most of a student’s high school experience.

“Visions demonstrated…that in life, you have to figure things out…sometimes,” Colbey says. “[But] we were prepared for the real world by putting our education in our own hands.”