Entries by Ronaldo Gomez

Get to Know PLI TOSA Dina Zakaria

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Get to Know PLI TOSA Dina Zakaria

Dina Zakaria began her journey in education in 2009 while pursuing her Master’s degree at the State University of New York at Stony Brook, where she also earned her single-subject teaching credential in Earth Science and Biology. In collaboration with her professor, she helped develop science workshops for teachers, emphasizing hands-on, inquiry-based learning. After graduating, Dina spent four years teaching Accelerated Earth Science and 8th-grade Physical Science. During this time, she also served as Science Team Lead, supporting teacher collaboration and the integration of NGSS into the classroom.

In August 2023, Dina joined the Professional Learning & Innovation (PLI) Department at Visions In Education. Her early work focused on developing support materials for Integrated Math I and providing instructional coaching for IM1 teachers. In addition, she participated in evaluating curriculum vendors, supporting the implementation of new curricula, collaborating with the ELA Essential Standards Home School team, and contributing to IS Science curricular review and Essential Standards selection.

In her current role as a PLI team member, Dina designs and facilitates research-based professional learning workshops to promote student success in Visions’ unique learning environment. She also provides one-on-one coaching and is deeply invested in advancing action-based research around instructional best practices. Dina is currently pursuing her preliminary administrative credential with the goal of expanding students’ access to rigorous learning experiences and meaningful opportunities beyond high school.

Dina Zakaria and her family in Egypt

Dina Zakaria is one of the Professional Learning Team members here at Visions In Education. The Professional Learning Team provides professional learning, coaching & consultation, and instructional best practices action research to ensure all Visions educators can provide students with high levels of learning. Our team is staffed with grade level, subject matter and educator competency expertise to ensure Visions staff have access to comprehensive support. Dina is skilled in science instruction, mathematics, standards alignment, data analysis, pilot program implementation, and student advocacy.

Student Spotlight: Navigating Challenges with Grace

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Student Spotlight: Navigating Challenges with Grace

At Visions, we are proud to support all students and help them succeed in their learning journey. For Ella W., senior in the Independent Study Academy, this support was crucial in navigating their own challenges and making strides to graduate. 

Ella joined Visions two years ago as a sophomore. Prior to enrolling, Ella transitioned from traditional public school to their previous district’s online program, where they struggled due to limited teacher connection and minimal direct instruction.

In searching for a program that would provide increased support while simultaneously allowing the flexibility to navigate their unique needs, Ella and their family found Visions. “It has been like a night and day difference,” they shared. 

Finding Answers and Advocating for Others

Since childhood, Ella has struggled with joint and muscular pain, minor dislocations, balance, and fatigue. After seeing several doctors and receiving many misdiagnoses throughout the years, Ella was finally diagnosed with hypermobile type Ehlers Danlos Syndrome at 14 years old. 

Those who live with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome cannot correctly process the collagen required to keep the connective tissues found throughout the body healthy, which can lead to many difficult symptoms. “This condition sincerely changes everything about your body and goes much deeper than you can learn from a surface websearch,” Ella shared. “It impacts every function and part of your body you can think of, bones, muscles, organs, teeth, nails.”

The path to getting their official diagnosis was a difficult one, and Ella is passionate about advocating for themself and others who struggle with the disability and may not know it. “Many others go through the same experience, not knowing a life without it, not knowing their body is so different. It is more often than not a completely invisible disability that still faces stigma and lack of research,” they explained. The exact cause of the condition is still unknown, but Ella credits the work and advocacy of the non-profit organization The Ehlers Danlos Society for doing their best to teach and find treatment for those who are struggling. 

Looking to the future, Ella is passionate about entering the medical field and understanding more about the complex parts of the human body. After graduating from Visions, Ella plans to enter Sierra College’s general Allied Health program for dental hygiene, and down the road aspires toward a master’s degree in social work. 

The Power of Support

Coming to Visions, Ella found the flexibility and support needed to be successful in school while navigating their disability, as well as the loss of their mother.

“I have felt consistently supported by [my teacher and counselor] academically and emotionally throughout my years at Visions. I have had Mrs. Ellman and Ms. Rosales in my corner through everything to help me understand what I need to do to move forward with my education,” they shared. 

“They have been able to navigate [unique challenges] with strength and grace. Despite the odds, Ella will graduate from high school on time with good grades,” said Mrs. Ellman, Ella’s teacher.

On top of finding success educationally, Ella has had the opportunity to grow personally by exploring their interests, including reading new and classic literature, doing archery, playing video games, and learning new languages. They also worked through Visions’ Enrichment Vendors to start on their driver’s education without the pressure of costs and applications. 

When asked what advice they would share with someone considering Visions, Ella stated:

“I truly do not think I would be graduating this year, on time, without Visions and their help. Before I enrolled, I considered dropping out [with] the fear that I’d never make it, but younger me has been proven completely wrong. It would be my first recommendation to anyone looking for an alternative education for any reason at all.”

Feeling Merry & Bright: A Look Back at 2025 Learning Period 4 Events!

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Feeling Merry & Bright: A Look Back at 2025 Learning Period 4 Events!

‘Tis the events season! During Learning Period 4, Visions students enjoyed engaging, educational, and festive activities that highlighted both fun and learning!

In the Home School Academy, students laced up their skates for roller skating and ice skating, enjoying the movement and motion of this merry season activity!

Meanwhile, high school students explored opportunities in both academics and career development. They visited the Aerospace Museum, where they delved into the history and technology of flight, and participated in the College & Career Fair, gaining valuable insights into future educational and professional pathways. Additionally, students toured the Sierra Sacramento Valley Museum of Medical History, expanding their understanding of the medical field through a hands-on and historical perspective.

And of course, we can’t forget our high school Winter Formal! Check out the recap here!

More Events Coming in the New Year!

Across all academies, students were able to connect learning to fun, building skills, knowledge, and memories that extend far beyond the virtual classroom. Thank you staff for planning these opportunities, and thank you students for making them come to life!

Fire & Ice: Visions Winter Formal 2025

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Fire & Ice: Visions Winter Formal 2025

On December 12, 2025, Visions hosted a Fire & Ice Winter Formal, giving our high school Visionaries the opportunity to dress up, connect, and celebrate together for an unforgettable evening.

Held at Laguna Town Hall in Elk Grove, this year’s Winter Formal was open to all high school students and offered a meaningful chance to log off from the virtual classroom and come together in person. Students spent the night dancing with old friends, meeting new ones, and enjoying a fun-filled atmosphere designed just for them.

The venue came to life with fire and ice themed decor, complete with festive snacks and treats at themed tables. Visionaries also enjoyed pizza served by our very own Visions teachers and captured memories at the fire and ice photo backdrop and 360 photo booth. The dance floor quickly became the heart of the evening, where students gathered to dance, laugh, and make lasting memories.

A huge thank you to our Events Team for coordinating such a memorable night, and to the teachers and staff who volunteered their time to support our students. This special evening would not have been possible without your dedication to creating meaningful experiences for our Visionaries.

Check out the rest of the pictures here: Facebook Album / Flickr Album

A New Season of Giving: Sharing the Gift of Holiday Hope

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A New Season of Giving: Sharing the Gift of Holiday Hope

Each year, we invite our staff to come together in support of families in need through our Holiday Hope program. Through donations and our Virtual Giving Tree, staff are able to contribute funds or choose a student to purchase gifts for.

This year, we had over 80 students in need of a little extra holiday joy. Because of our staff’s generosity, we raised $1,372 and gathered more than 100 gifts for these families, ensuring they feel supported and celebrated this season.

“This is truly my favorite project to take on—it is incredibly rewarding work,” said Charter School Secretary Jackie Ochoa, who helped oversee this year’s program. “Seeing how our staff comes together and how Visions shows up for our students is so heartwarming. The holidays can be hard, and it’s a beautiful thing to be able to pay it forward and support our students during this season.”

Thank You, Elves!

From the initial donations to the wrapping and delivery efforts, the collective spirit of giving showcased the heart of Visions and our commitment to serving our community. A heartfelt thank you to all our staff for coming together to bring joy and hope to our students and their families.

Thank you to our staff who volunteered their time to wrap and deliver gifts: Nicole Salzberg, Caitlin Tan, Georgina Rios, Yesenia Gonzalez, Carolyn Davis, Jocelyn Swank, Bethany Johnson, Carol Weyermuller, Stacy Callman, Kristen Manchester, Victoria Soria, Keely Adams, Lora Bachinsky, Cassie Backstrom, JoEllen Graulty, Jennifer Irish, Ferrin Cowan, Alexandria Bersig, Kaylee Song, Sabrina Allgood, Keenya Powell, Kristyn Migliori, Grace Gose, Sander Salguero, Nancy Legalsi, Karen Moe, Pritika Sharma, and Melissa Pytlak for helping wrap and deliver gifts, and a very special thank you to Jackie Ochoa and Lindsey Nance for overseeing the program and bringing the Holiday Hope joy this season! 

Year after year, our Holiday Hope program provides a meaningful way for our staff to gather in support of our families. We hope the contributions help make this holiday season brighter for the families we serve.

Wishing you joy, peace, and togetherness during this time.

Congratulations to Our Fall 2025 Visions All Stars!

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Congratulations to Our Fall 2025 Visions All Stars!

Our fifth round of Visions All Stars were presented with their awards at their respective meetings with their communities during the first week of December. 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 Fall 2025 Visions All Stars: Donelle O’Brien, Michelle Maile, Christine Chiono, Lori Huck, Lesley Storz, Carolyn Davis, Christina Schreiber, Carol Weyermuller, Mindi Rold, Jennifer Russell, Amanda Gemignani, Brittany Carper, Ben Drahmann, Randee Ramirez, and Hannah Blackledge 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!

The True Visions Journey: A Spotlight on Alina Uzdenova

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The True Visions Journey: A Spotlight on Alina Uzdenova

In 2024, 18-year old Alina Uzdenova stumbled upon a job listing for an Office Coordinator II position in the Enrollment Department at Visions In Education. Fresh out of high school and working as an after-school teacher, she couldn’t help but think: “How funny would it be if I worked at the same place I graduated from?”

With all these through lines – including her conversation with now-colleague Robert Kane during her own enrollment as a student – it’s clear that Alina’s journey from Visions student to Visions staff was meant to be.

“On the Enrollment team, I work directly with parents to make sure they’re well-informed about our academies. I answer questions, guide them through the application process, and help ensure everything is completed accurately so their students can have a smooth start at Visions,” shared Alina. “Being a student at Visions gave me firsthand experience and personal insight into how our school operates. That background helps me connect with parents and explain the different academies from a genuine, informed perspective.”

“Alina is a hard worker and very driven. She is a great team player and is always willing to pitch in wherever she can,” shared Rick Lilley, Enrollment Services Manager. “In her primary role she is the ‘tip of the spear’, one of the first people that families talk to when they express interest in our program. With her unique perspective as a former student she is able to really help families understand what the experience will be like for their student. She is a fantastic ambassador for Visions both as a graduate and as an employee.”

Influence & Impact

If you saw Alina in our Enrollment area today – tucked beside the Learning Center and freshly decorated for the holidays – you might still mistake her for a student. Not yet 20, Alina still represents what it means to be a lifelong learner – curious, ambitious, and empowered.

“My experience as a Visions student was amazing,” shared Alina, who was part of our Independent Study Academy. “I really appreciated the flexibility – it allowed me to have a job while staying on top of my schoolwork.”

But the most impactful part of her journey was her teacher, Stephanie Kyles, whose commitment went above and beyond, even meeting with Alina during lunch breaks to ensure she stayed engaged and confident in her learning.

“What truly made the [Visions] experience special was Ms. Kyles. She made learning so much better and more enjoyable, and I’ll always be grateful for the support and encouragement she gave me.”

“Alina was one of those students teachers never forget. She was bright, driven, and always willing to put in the extra effort — not only to stay on track but to work ahead and graduate early,” said Stephanie. “It was such a joy getting to know her, learning about her interests and hobbies, and watching her grow into the remarkable young woman she is today.”

About Alina

Born and raised in Sacramento, Alina spent her early years living in and visiting Russia. An identical twin (hi, Diana!), she loves spending her free time reading and hanging out with her friends and family.

“Outside of work, I’m also a local and travel wedding and couples photographer – you can see my work on Instagram at @portraitbyalina!” Alina shared.

But most exciting of all, Alina recently stepped out from behind the camera to become the star of her own business – the bride. On November 1st, she married her husband, Vlad, and spent two wonderful weeks honeymooning across Italy, visiting Rome, Como, Bellagio, and Lezzeno. With the freedom to fill her days with what matters most – developing her business, pursuing her passions, and spending time with loved ones – Alina’s life as an employee isn’t so different from the life we make possible for students: one of exploration, balance, and joy.

“Working at Visions has really come full circle for me. I started as a student here, and now I get to help families who are just beginning that same journey. It’s been so rewarding to give back to a school that supported me when I was finding my own path. I’m excited to keep growing, both personally and professionally, and to see where the future takes me.”

Exploring the Future: Visions Hosts College & Career Fair

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Exploring the Future: Visions Hosts College & Career Fair

It’s never too early to start thinking about your future, and here at Visions we are helping students do exactly that! Visions In Education recently hosted a College & Career Fair designed to introduce high school students to real-world opportunities and give them the tools they need to make confident, informed decisions about their future.

At the fair, students connected with more than 30 vendors, including local colleges, trade schools, potential employers, and military recruiters. These face-to-face conversations helped students learn what different pathways look like, what skills are needed, and what steps they can start taking now to prepare.

Students also had the chance to hear directly from Visions Career Technical Education (CTE) ambassadors, high school students who have participated in Visions CTE pathways. Students discovered how early exposure to career skills can help them make meaningful decisions long before graduation. In addition to academic and career exploration, students learned about Visions’ student clubs and the impact that getting involved can have on their future.

One of the most popular opportunities at the fair was the chance to participate in mock interviews with Visions staff members. Independent Study senior Linda Marie excelled during her mock interview and walked away with experience she can apply to future job or college interviews. “It was a low-stress introduction to interviewing where the interviewer was very nice! After your interview the interviewer shared feedback on what your strengths and weaknesses were, and tips for future interviews,” she shared.

Throughout the day, Visions counselors and staff also provided hands-on assistance with FAFSA applications, resume building, job or college applications, and more. By connecting students with resources, professionals, and practical experiences now, Visions is proud to help them build the confidence, clarity, and skills needed to thrive long after graduation.

A huge thank you to Visions Events Secretary Lisa Adams for coordinating this event, along with all counselors, teachers, and staff who supported. Another thank you to all vendors who came out to empower our students and champion their success: American River College, Woodland Community College, Sacramento City College – Technology & Innovation Division, Build California, Mason Development Center of Northern California, California American Fire Sprinkler Association (CAFSA), California Firefighter Joint Apprenticeship Committee, SMUD, United States Air Force, Golden1 Credit Union, EDD Youth Employment Opportunity Program, Folsom Cordova Community Partnership, HiSET, Folsom Lake College, Sierra College, Colusa County Office of Education, CSU Chico – Concrete Industry Management, Western Electrical Contractors Association (WECA), Eaton – Electrical and Industrial Power Management, Solace Enterprises – HVAC, Plumbing & Solar, California Department of Transportation (CalTrans), City of Sacramento, Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts, CPR With Heart, and SCOE – Mental Health & Wellness Career Pipeline.

Celebrating Alumni: Submit a Nomination for the Next Visions Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award!

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Celebrating Alumni: Submit a Nomination for the Next Visions Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award!

We know our alumni are out there changing the world, and we want to celebrate them ALL! Last year, we proudly launched the Visions Alumni Hall of Fame to honor outstanding Visions students who continue to inspire, lead, and make a difference. Now, it’s time to welcome the next class of honorees!

Do you know a Visions alum doing amazing things? Or maybe that alum is you. Nominate someone (or yourself!) for the 2025-26 Visions Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award! The process is easy: share a bit about the nominee and why you think they deserve recognition.

Inductees will be celebrated in lots of ways, including a feature article on Visions’ website, a video about their time at Visions and what they’ve been up to since, a crystal award presented at the annual August Back-to-School event, and more.

“This recognition is a reflection not only of my educational journey, but also of the incredible support, mentorship, and faculty that helped shape who I am today.” – Tanner Zumwalt, Inaugural Inductee, 2025 Visions Alumni Hall of Fame

To learn more about the Alumni Hall of Fame program and nominate someone today, click here.

We are so proud of the impact Visions alumni have had in our communities, and we cannot wait to celebrate the next group of inductees! 

Strengthening Partnerships: Highlights from Visions’ Enrichment Vendor Meetings

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Strengthening Partnerships: Highlights from Visions’ Enrichment Vendor Meetings

Visions In Education recently hosted Enrichment Vendor Meetings with over 20 Visions vendors, offering a valuable chance to connect with long-standing partners and hear directly from the vendors who support our students every day. With 9 vendors attending the in-person meeting and 13 joining our virtual session, these meetings served as an important opportunity to share updates and gather meaningful feedback from our valued partners.

“Our vendors are more than service providers—they’re essential partners in helping our students learn, grow, and thrive,” shared Tania Houchin, Associate Director of Business Systems & Support. “By creating opportunities to collaborate with them directly, we are able to refine our systems, elevate our level of support, and pursue our goal of being 1% better every day.”

Goals and Growth Opportunities

The goal of these meetings was to provide vendors with information on new system functionalities, identify common issues, and better understand how Visions can continue to support vendors in their work with families. Equally important was hearing directly from vendors about what they appreciate most about working with Visions, ensuring that these strengths remain at the center of our partnership approach.

Through these conversations, our teams are now able to identify next steps and 1% better efforts in our vendor services. Take a look at some key themes and successes shared by our vendors:

  • Vendors appreciate the strong relationships with teachers and families and emphasized positive collaboration and support from our school.
  • Vendors shared the efficiency and ease of eVoucher submissions and payments, noting that Visions processes payments quicker than other charter schools.
  • Vendors appreciate the opportunities to share their stories, including highlighting their services and student successes.
  • Looking ahead, Visions will work to increase vendor visibility, improve the Vendor Search Tool experience, and continue streamlining payment and reporting processes.

These meetings reaffirmed the importance of strong, collaborative relationships between Visions and our enrichment vendors. Thank you Tania Houchin, Kristin Shumaker, and Julie Yoder for leading these sessions, and thank you to our 22 vendor partners for participating: New Mettle Farms, Lioness Business Services, Engineer4Fun, My Tutoring Partners, Granite Arch Climbing Center, i9 Sports, Robert Eakin, Skips Music, Vasyl Halaburda Music Lessons, Blackbird & Company, Good2Great Skills Academy, Just For Fun Art, Globetrotters Languages Academy, Miracle Math Coaching, Branches Learning, Meighan R. Endress-Abolins, M.S. Ed., Reading Specialist, Split Second Response, Inc., Total Education Solutions, GymStars Gymnastics Stockton, Oz Academy of Music, Born To Dance, and Growing Healthy Seasons.

We are grateful for the thoughtful insights shared and look forward to implementing improvements that support vendors, families, and students alike.