Entries by Ronaldo Gomez

February is Black History Month

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February is Black History Month

Since 1976, February has been recognized as Black History Month, a time to honor and celebrate African Americans and their role in our country’s history. The origins of Black History Month date back to shortly after the abolishment of slavery and have evolved into the nationwide commemoration of Black history and experience that we know today.

Take some time to check out the following Black History Month Resources:

Want to get involved? Check out this article for some ideas!

Hear from Visions’ Black Student Union

BSU at Visions gives students the space to engage in activities and discussions designed to help foster a better understanding of experiences and issues that impact African-American students. In the spirit of Black History Month, advisors Alexia Thomas and Dominique Asuncion asked the club what BSU means to them – hear what they had to say below.

“The BSU is a very safe community and a club where I’ve met new people, created affirmations, and much more already. What has stood out the most to me so far was The Wiz field trip and the Umoja presentation. The field trip was a lot of fun and I’m so grateful that the BSU gave me the chance to see a Broadway show. The Umoja presentation was educational and inspirational, it made all of us emotional and was very moving. When joining the BSU, I didn’t exactly know what to expect, but I wanted to get more involved with Visions, my community, and learn more, which is exactly what was provided for me. Soon after joining the BSU, I wanted to be an elected official and became the Historian role because I would like to help my community, research events, and overall further my education. As a Black high school student, the Black Student Union means a lot to me and I’m very glad I had the opportunity to join. I’m super excited to attend more meetings and do more within the club.” – Stephenie F., Historian

“The Black Student Union is a space for students to come together and discuss the history and future of the African-American community. As Vice President, BSU has given me the opportunity to assist my peers and use my voice. During every BSU meeting, we take the time to chant affirmations. The affirmations remind us that people of color are strong and hold importance. Visions In Education’s Black Student Union is a judgment-free club for African-American students to gain new views and opportunities.” – Lyrik R., Vice President

“The Black Student Union club is a place where individuals can comfortably express themselves and feel a sense of community. As the BSU club President, I appreciate the given opportunity to help inform others on the various social, historical, and cultural experiences of African Americans. The BSU club hosts numerous fun activities, events, and discussions. African American students have the chance to learn more about where they come from, find their voice, and gain helpful information on how to navigate life. I enjoy the connections that the club fosters. Recently, BSU partnered with guest speakers from Sacramento City Community College’s UMOJA program. The speakers provided information regarding opportunities available for African American college students. At Visions, the Black Student Union club fosters Black Excellence and helps students pave the way for African American advancement.” – Aliannah R., President 

Get Involved

Thank you to the Black Student Union for sharing your voices. If you’re interested in joining BSU or one of our other 20+ clubs, learn more about our clubs here.

Stay tuned all month long for celebrations of Black activists, leaders, and more on our social media!

Student Spotlight: Senior Baylee G. Commits to Baylor

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Student Spotlight: Senior Baylee G. Commits to Baylor

Baylee G. begins each day with an early morning tumbling practice. After her session, she returns home to complete her school work, then heads back to the gym for a few more hours of acrobatics-specific training and coaching. As a lifelong gymnast, she’s used to the demands of her sport. As a future collegiate athlete at Baylor University, she’s just getting warmed up.

“I have done gymnastics most of my life. I have trained in Artistic gymnastics and then Acro[batic] gymnastics for the last six years,” says Baylee. “I’m so excited to be headed to Baylor next year and continue my academic and athletic career with such an amazing group of girls and the best coaches!”

Also a competitive crossfitter, Baylee has pushed herself physically and mentally to secure her spot on Baylor’s Acrobatics and Tumbling team. Initially enrolled at a traditional public school, Baylee knew that to continue competing while also getting an education, she needed a school that was more flexible and self-paced. For her, Visions was “the way that worked best to do two competitive sports while prioritizing school.” So, shortly after the pandemic, Baylee enrolled in Visions’ University Prep Academy, knowing it was the program that would work best for her learning style and goals.

“University Prep has allowed me to have a narrow focus on school without the normal distractions I would have at an in-person public school,” says Baylee. “University Prep helped me figure out what I want to major in…and helped me stay on track to be prepared for college. Without University Prep, I would not be where I am today and would most likely not have the opportunity to receive a scholarship to Baylor.”

Finding Her Balance

As a performer, competitor and teammate, Baylee knows what it’s like to work with others to achieve success. It’s no different here at Visions, where she receives support from her credentialed teachers, counselor and other support staff to help her balance her school work with her sport.

“I have a great relationship with my teachers and counselor and they do an amazing job helping me…achieve my goals,” shares Baylee. “I am very supported here at Visions!”

As she nears the end of her high school career, Baylee is looking forward to taking her next steps as a Baylor Bear. Over the past few years, Visions has not only helped Baylee find her path, but also reach her goals.

“Without Visions, I would not have been able to balance both school and creating a future in my Acro and Tumbling career. It gave me the flexibility and time to commit to the hours I needed to be successful in my sport.”

National School Choice Week 2024

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National School Choice Week 2024

National School Choice Week is January 21-27 and is considered the largest celebration of educational options in America. Visions In Education is proud to be a public charter school that offers school choice and flexibility in our Independent Study, University Prep, and Home School academies.

“School choice is about families being able to choose among Traditional Public Schools, Public Charter Schools, Public Magnet Schools, Online Public Schools, Private Schools and Homeschool,” said President of National School Choice Week, Andrew Campanella.

This week-long initiative aims to raise awareness of the different school types and education options available. We’re joining the National School Choice Week celebration because every child deserves an education that supports their talents and needs.

Visions is proud to offer parents and students a personalized and safe learning environment. Check out our Alumni Voices or Student Spotlight pages to hear more about how students can succeed in a school of choice.

Visions Proud

Want to get involved? Here are some fun ways to celebrate National School Choice Week:

  • Post one of these badges on social media with the tags #SchoolChoiceWeek and #VisionsProud.
  • Help Grow Our Community: Do you know someone who might benefit from choosing a different school? Start a conversation about your experiences at Visions and let them know they have options available to them.