Entries by Ronaldo Gomez

It’s Good To Be Visions: Celebrating Our School And Staff

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It’s Good To Be Visions: Celebrating Our School And Staff

Our 25th Anniversary has been a meaningful journey filled with stories, celebrations, and reflections on what it truly means to serve students for a quarter of a century. Reaching this milestone is a rare achievement for a charter school, and it has inspired us to look inward – toward the heart of our communities – to understand how we’ve cultivated such a strong and enduring culture of success.

In our It’s Good to Be Visions video, staff share why they choose to be part of the Visions community—whether it’s to champion students, build deeper connections with families, or be part of something greater than themselves. Hear directly from our Visionaries below:

With Gratitude

To our past Visionaries – both staff and families – you have helped shape our school into what it is today. Thank you for trusting us to educate, empower, and inspire.

A special thank you to all the families and staff who contributed to this video: Kennedy Family, Montoya M., Sherral H., Erika B., Melinda L., Connor P., Christie B., Brittney P., Sam M., Mitch W., Lesley S., Dan A., Brian R., Erin B., Robert K., Kristin S., Krissy C. and James U.

As we look ahead to the next 25 years, we are reminded each day: it’s good to be Visions!

Congratulations To Our Spring 2025 Visions All Stars!

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Pictured: Spring 2025 and Fall 2024 All Stars

Congratulations to Our Spring 2025 Visions All Stars!

Our fourth round of Visions All Stars were presented with their awards at our annual End of the Year Gathering on May 20th. The winners were selected by their fellow staff based on how well they embody Visions’ Values: 

  • Learning – Supporting a learning environment that continuously motivates all individuals to excel.
  • Relationships – Creating and maintaining meaningful relationships among students, families, teachers, staff, and community partners.
  • Integrity – Conducting ourselves with honesty and responsibility.
  • Accountability – Demonstrating a personal and institutional accountability for student learning, ethical conduct, and adherence to mandates, policies, and procedures.
  • Innovation – Challenging ourselves to create unique ideas and innovative solutions in a technology rich environment.
  • Respect – Promoting a school community that appreciates the value of students, families, colleagues, and cultures.
  • Service – Dedicating ourselves to delivering excellent service.

During the nomination process, staff were invited to send in some kind words explaining what makes our staff All Stars; see the gallery below for a full list of our winners!

Congratulations Spring 2025 Visions All Stars: Melissa Meyer, Amanda Blackwell, Melissa Hopkins, Mark Sheu, Sarah Grassinger, Hilary Brugger, Brian Reneck, Kerstin Brunckhorst, Lily Nichols, Leah Favro, Estrella Rosales, Carlos Palomo, Veronica Kane, and Georgina Rios, who represent our Home School, Independent Study, University Prep, Special Education, Certificated Non-Teaching and Classified communities. 

Congratulations Fall 2024 Visions All Stars: Mica Clements, Lisa Kawazoe, Amy Corcoran, Taylor Bartosh, Sarah Fernandez, Amy Salvatori, Patrice Boyan, Alyssa Lowrie, Christine McKnight, Susan Miller, Gabriella Slaughter, Noreen Snyder, Teri Woody, Jamie Snyder, and Betty Brady who represent our Home School, Independent Study, University Prep, Special Education, Certificated Non-Teaching and Classified communities.

Thank you All Stars for going above and beyond to make Visions great!

Turning Athletic Aspirations Into Reality

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Turning Athletic Aspirations Into Reality

In the formative stages of athletic development, young competitors are encouraged to dream without limits. Many aspiring athletes envision themselves reaching the pinnacle of achievement: securing positions on elite teams or earning the honor of national representation.

These aspirations initially manifest as distant possibilities, but at what point do they transform into tangible outcomes? For student-athletes, the college recruitment process represents a pivotal milestone that shapes their future trajectories.

We are proud to announce the commitment of the following Visions students who will be continuing their academic and athletic journeys at the next level. Congratulations, Visionaries! 

  • Eden N. – Soccer (Colorado State University)
  • Amy I. – Volleyball (Sacramento State University)
  • Angilee W. – Soccer (Central Wyoming)
  • Nadaul C. – Tennis (UC Davis)





How To Maximize Time

Athletic pursuits require significant time commitments. Visions students benefit from a flexible educational framework that allows them to maintain rigorous academic standards while dedicating sufficient time to athletic development. This balanced approach optimizes training schedules, recovery periods, and mental resilience—all critical components for competitive advancement.

In addition, Visions ensure that each student is paired with both a credentialed teacher and dedicated counselor to provide academic and personal support. This robust support network underscores our commitment to fostering community engagement as a critical factor in early achievement. 

At Visions, we believe that empowering students to direct their educational focus – particularly in areas of personal passion – creates the foundation for success, and we are committed to providing the institutional support necessary for them to thrive.

Interested in hearing about more students? Check out our current and past athletic spotlights below!

Soccer Excellence Leads to Colorado State

Eden’s journey with Visions In Education began when her family discovered the school through a community organization. After learning about the institution’s commitment to student achievement, they decided to enroll. Nine years later, Eden graduates with an impressive 4.35 GPA while simultaneously securing a commitment to Colorado State University, where she will contribute to the Rams women’s soccer program. Read Eden’s Graduate Spotlight here. 

Serving Success At Sacramento State

Amy I. recognized that the athletic recruitment process follows a unique trajectory for each individual. When she considered discontinuing her athletic pursuits, her support network intervened, emphasizing how her dedication had positioned her for success. Amy graduates with an impressive 4.50 GPA; the top of her graduating class. Her experience demonstrates how influential a strong support system can be in a student’s academic and athletic development. Read Amy’s Graduate Spotlight here.

Tennis Standouts Advance To Prestigious Institutions 

In 2024, tennis competitors Saahith and Mason committed to Duke University and Babson College, respectively. Having competed against each other in local and regional tournaments throughout their development, both athletes recognized that advancing to collegiate competition would require strategic adjustments to their academic and training regimens. Learn how Saahith and Mason prepared for the next level with Visions here.

Deep Dive Into A Family Of Swimmers

In 2023 and 2021, we spotlighted the Sears family who had three siblings competing at the Masters University. For the Sears, swimming represents a shared passion and pursuit. When eldest sibling JT received a recruitment offer from The Master’s University swimming program, he established a precedent for his younger siblings, Kylee and Charley, who subsequently followed similar paths. To advance their athletic objectives, the family enrolled at Visions In Education, leveraging the program’s flexibility to enhance their competitive capabilities. Read about Kylee’s journey here and how Charley followed in his older siblings footsteps to success.

Help University Prep Benefit More Student-Athletes

Do you know someone who is currently on their journey to academic and athletic success? Future and current Visions students can start their journey towards higher education in our University Prep Early College Academy. 

We are excited to see the next steps for our athletes and know that they will continue to make their communities proud of them. Good luck on your future endeavors, Visionaries!

STS Closed 5/20 from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

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Student Technology Services (STS) Closed 5/20 from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Student Technology Services (STS) will be closed Tuesday, May 20 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for an all-staff event offsite. STS will reopen at 1:30 p.m. Thank you in advance for your understanding!

Happy Classified School Employee Week! See All the Shoutouts on Our Kudoboard!

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Happy Classified School Employee Week! See All the Shoutouts on Our Kudoboard!

 




SEE OUR CLASSIFIED STAFF APPRECIATION BOARD HERE

May 18th-24th is Classified School Employee Week, and to celebrate, we’ve been asking our Visionaries to send in shoutouts for office staff and all the great work they do to support our staff and families.

Thanks to you, we now have over 100 shoutouts to share, celebrating everyone from Student Technology Services to HR to Facilities. See all the submissions on our Kudoboard!

Thank You, Staff!

Although Classified School Employee Week is only a week long, the impact that our office staff have on Visions is unending and immeasurable. Thank you classified staff for your dedication, professionalism, and care. It’s good to be Visions – because of you!










Visions’ Main Office & STS Closed May 26th For Memorial Day

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Visions’ Main Office & STS Closed May 26th for Memorial Day

Visions’ main office and Student Technology Services (STS) will be closed on Monday, May 26th in observance of Memorial Day. We will resume operations during normal business hours on Tuesday, May 27th.

Memorial Day honors those who have given their lives in service of our country. On this day and beyond, we remember all who have made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can live freely.

Resources & Information

Visions In Education Welcomes Leaders And Legislators At Second Open House Event

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Visions In Education Welcomes Leaders And Legislators At Second Open House Event

Following a successful legislative visit back in January, Visions In Education hosted another open house for local leaders and legislative representatives. Attendees included elected officials, staffers, and members of our educational community. Hosted by Superintendent Dr. Steve Olmos, COO Tom Tafoya, CAO Dr. Micah Studer, Board Chairperson Mark Holman, and others, we shared the vital role non-classroom based charter schools like Visions play in serving the community.

Visions was also honored with a certificate from the office of Senator Roger Niello recognizing our 25th anniversary and our commitment to personalized, high-quality learning.

The meeting opened with an overview of Visions, covering student demographics, enrollment, support services, and program offerings. Attendees then observed live virtual classes across various programs, including Online Middle School Math, University Prep Spanish, Independent Study Economics, a 6th–8th grade writing course, and a TK–1st grade reading comprehension class.

We were also honored to hear from longtime Visions parent Tab Berg and his daughter Tori, a student since first grade and a graduating member of the upcoming Class of 2025.

“Student voice plays a critical role in highlighting the unique value of non-classroom based schools like Visions,” says Superintendent Olmos. “Observing live classes, witnessing students in the process of learning, and hearing their stories firsthand—from both students and their families—is not only powerful, but essential. While data and metrics are important, it is ultimately our students who define our value.”





Advocacy In Action

As the legislative season progresses, we will continue advocating for schools like Visions as a powerful and integral part of public education. We would like to extend our gratitude to all attendees who took the time to learn more about our school.

Thank you Dan La Bar (Principal – William Finch Charter), Mika Klinsmann (Office of Senator Roger Niello), and Chelsea Kelley (Principal Consultant – California State Assembly) for joining us. Special thanks to teachers Lesley Storz, Melinda Lewis, Christine Chiono, Nicole Roberts, and Matt MacKay for sharing you and your students in action. We are also grateful to Assistant to the Superintendent Betty Brady and Administrative Assistant Georgina Rios for their efforts in coordinating the visit.

We look forward to future opportunities to showcase the value of Visions and continue this meaningful dialogue.

Graduate Spotlight: Visions Student Commits to Sacramento State Volleyball Program

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Graduate Spotlight: Visions Student Commits to Sacramento State Volleyball Program

For Amy I., pursuing an education in Visions’ University Prep Academy meant she would be given a more flexible schedule, an individualized learning environment, and the ability to make her dreams of playing volleyball at the collegiate level a reality.

After three years with SynergyForce Volleyball Club, Amy is taking her talents to Sacramento State University. She will be the first in her family to compete at the collegiate level and is thrilled to represent the Hornets.

“I’m excited about being able to play at a higher level and immersing myself into a true student-athlete lifestyle,” said Amy.

Finding Her Path

Amy began her volleyball journey at the age of nine, developing her skills with an open mindset toward achieving her goals.

“It’s always good to have goals, but it’s also good to keep an open mind when it comes to accomplishments and opportunities. One success for one person does not look the same for everyone else,” said Amy. “Listen to your gut, listen to your heart, and that’ll get you a long way.”

At Visions, the “1% Better” mentality focuses on shaping students through steady growth and progression. Students like Amy embrace challenges as opportunities to achieve their personal goals. With confidence and support, Visions students graduate empowered to pursue their dreams.

The Turning Point

Amy nearly gave up volleyball during what she describes as a “devastating” season. A pivotal conversation with her coach, Shasta Millholin, changed everything. 

“I had a conversation with Shasta that changed my perspective of the game, the recruiting process, and the possibilities of my future,” said Amy. This conversation helped instill confidence in Amy to continue the recruitment process.

She later visited Sacramento State twice—once unofficially and once officially—where she met the coaches and players, solidifying her decision about her athletic future.

“I’m forever grateful I said ‘Yes’ to the unofficial visit and then the official because I found out how beautiful the campus is and how incredible the coaches, the girls, and the entire program was,” said Amy. 

A Supportive Community

“The teachers have guided Amy in her classes while teaching her independence and responsibility,” said Cindy, Amy’s mother. “It has been a great balance between structure and flexibility.”

“Hilary Ducharme and Julie Winalski have been very helpful in supporting and guiding Amy to being able to play volleyball at the collegiate level. Their academic and personal guidance has been invaluable.” – Cindy I., Visions parent.

Hilary Ducharme, Amy’s teacher, would like to convey her admiration for Amy’s contagious confidence, her capabilities toward taking on challenges, and maintaining high expectations for herself in her academic and athletic endeavors. 

“Amy is an incredibly well-organized and academically tenacious student! I am so proud to have been a part of her experience here at University Prep over these past two and a half years and know she will take on her next challenges at CSU Sacramento with the same grit and dedication as she pursues her education towards a career as an actuary,” said Ducharme.

Visions counselor Julie Winalski spoke to Amy’s strong commitment to preparing for college and competing at the next level in her sport.

“Amy was focused on pursuing college-level coursework through dual enrollment opportunities while also meeting A-G and NCAA eligibility requirements. With the encouragement of a strong support network both at home and at school, Amy consistently put in the effort needed to succeed in her rigorous academic and athletic commitments,” said Winalski.

Winalski offers these words of encouragement for the future Hornet: “Continue to lean into the strengths you’ve developed—discipline, determination, and the ability to balance multiple responsibilities. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it, and always stay connected to the support systems that have helped you thrive. Keep setting clear goals and pursuing them with the same drive you’ve shown at Visions—you’re capable of achieving great things!”

Visions In Education COO Tom Tafoya Featured By School Pathways

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Visions In Education COO Tom Tafoya Featured By School Pathways

 


WATCH TOM'S TESTIMONIAL HERE

Visions In Education’s Chief Operations Officer, Tom Tafoya, was recently featured on School Pathways’ Voices In The Field series. He explains how important the collaboration between Visions and School Pathways is for offering our families and staff a comprehensive Student Information System (SIS). 

In the video, Tafoya explains how the decision to choose School Pathways was easy as they were optimized for an independent study model. 

In an effort to deliver personalized instruction at a large scale, Visions works with School Pathways to manage student data,virtual instruction, independent study functions and more.

“From online registration to  signatures to everything being electronic; from work samples to attendance records, that whole package really allows us to optimize our school,” said Tafoya. 

When the process is simplified, Visions is better able to maintain focus on areas that require the most attention; the students and the learning experience. Thank you to School Pathways, for their continued support. 

Beyond Academics: A Spotlight On The Counseling Services Department

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Beyond Academics: A Spotlight On The Counseling Services Department

 

There’s a special bond between our counselors at Visions. They host baby showers for their teammates, dress up in group costumes for Halloween, attend conferences together, and most importantly, collaborate to provide personalized, critical services to our students.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re shining a light on this team and the many supports they provide to students, including mental health services, college and career planning, interventions and referrals, and more.

“As school counselors at Visions, we focus on supporting students’ academic, social-emotional, and career development. We conduct one-on-one and group sessions, guide students through academic and personal challenges, and provide transition plans and resources for post-secondary goals,” explains Counselor Brittney Hoffman.

Whether a student wants to attend college, go to trade school, enter the workforce, or join the armed forces post-graduation, our counselors provide guidance to keep them on their chosen path.

“One of University Prep Early College’s primary goals is guiding students on a college-bound pathway, whether it be community college or 4-year universities,” explains University Prep Academy Counselor Julie Winalski. “This means a strong emphasis on A-G course completion, college readiness, and providing in-depth support with college applications, financial aid, personal statements, letters of recommendation and scholarship opportunities.”

But the work of our counselors isn’t just reviewing transcripts and reading applications – it’s supporting the transition to Visions, fostering social connections, removing barriers to success, and nurturing student growth. Whether they’re working with families or staff, our counselors remain dedicated to advocating for the overall well-being of every student in their care.

“I regularly meet with students, families, and teachers to share resources—such as small groups and student clubs—and to collaborate on strategies for improving academic performance, boosting engagement, and recognizing individual strengths,” explains Counselor Sander Salguero. “I help families navigate our school system, access available resources, and connect with appropriate staff or community services when needed.”

“We work with our administrators who help facilitate the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) process for students who are presenting with a variety of challenges,” adds Estrella Rosales. “Our work also requires that we have solid collaboration with our social workers so we can address higher tiered needs for students such as proactive intervention and crisis management.”

“As a new counselor on the team, I’m super excited about all the ways that Visions serves our students!” says new Counselor Grace Gose. “The level of personalized support here is awesome and there are so many teams of people working together to be champions for students, so what’s really stood out is how everyone works together so seamlessly. It’s also just so FUN. Overall, I’m loving the chance to be part of a team that’s all about making a positive impact in EVERY student’s life!”

As Grace alluded to, there’s no shortage of passion on the Counseling team. Despite the weight of their roles, each counselor knows how to find joy in their everyday work.

“My passion stems from helping high school students academically, emotionally and socially, providing guidance, support and resources to help them navigate the complexities of high school and help them plan for their future,” says Counselor Monique Maher.

“Visions is such a unique place,” adds Counselor Megan Goudy. “I have learned how passionate our teachers are about helping each student find their own success. I’ve learned that our counseling team is full of incredible individuals who will advocate for what is best for students. I have learned that Visions is in a special position to serve students coming from a wide variety of backgrounds and situations and that we are able to offer them the flexibility not found at other schools. And most of all, I have learned all over again, day in and day out, how important the work we do is to each individual student and family.”

Together for Students

The notion of “counseling” goes well beyond academics here at Visions – it’s care and compassion, influence and impact. 

“The entire counseling team deserves a huge shout-out! Their dedication and commitment to student success, health, and wellness is apparent in the daily work they do,” says Counselor Ah Yang.

“As a large, collaborative counseling team, each of us brings something unique and valuable to the table,” adds Counselor Kiely Anderson. “We rely on one another, sharing ideas, experiences, and challenges to continuously explore ways to better support our students—both in meaningful, lasting ways and in the everyday moments that matter.”

Of course, our students and families aren’t the only ones who rely on our counselors – sometimes it’s the members of the team themselves who lean on one another for guidance.

“Our counseling team supports one another by always being there for each other – whether that’s through words of encouragement, positive feedback, collaborating on ideas and projects, or checking in with each other throughout the day,” shares Counselor Madeline Meniketti. “We always make sure to show up for one another and help each other when needed.”

“Everybody is always willing to step in and help with anything, and everybody has such a diverse set of knowledge,” adds Counselor Jen Nino. “We’re all an expert in something; regardless of what the situation is, somebody will always be there to bounce ideas off of and help.”

Overseeing this team is one of Counseling Program Mariah Ernst-Collins’ favorite part of the job, working with such an incredible team and within an organization that’s been changing student lives for over 25 years.

“Ultimately, my goal is to ensure that every student receives equitable access to the resources and guidance they need to thrive mentally, emotionally, and academically. And did I mention, I love supporting this amazing team of counselors and working with students!”

“Each [student] is unique with their own needs and challenges, some of which aren’t always met by traditional education systems. However, at Visions, we aren’t confined by the usual schedules, locations, or traditional structures. This gives us the freedom to tailor our approach to each student,” explains Counselor Rija Gorkhali. “With the wide variety of options we offer in virtual/in-person platforms, our students receive an education and enrichment experience that other institutions simply can’t match. Because we’re Visions, we make it happen.”

A Message from Counselor Nicole Tannous: “One of the biggest benefits of counseling is knowing you’re not alone—we’re here for you, ready to listen, support, and advocate for your needs every step of the way.”