Entries by Ronaldo Gomez

Celebrating National Mentoring Month 2026

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Celebrating National Mentoring Month 2026

January is National Mentoring Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the transformative impact mentors have on the lives of students, professionals, and communities. Mentorship provides guidance, support, and encouragement, helping individuals navigate challenges, build confidence, and achieve their personal and professional goals.

Across schools, workplaces, and community organizations, National Mentorship Month highlights the value of connecting experienced mentors with those seeking guidance. It’s also an opportunity to inspire new mentorship relationships, share success stories, and reinforce the importance of giving back through mentorship. Whether through academic programs, career development, or personal growth, mentorship helps individuals unlock their potential and thrive.

Mentorship Opportunities at Visions

Visions offers a variety of student mentorship opportunities, including Success Through Education Mentoring (STEM), the Mindset Academy Mentoring Program, the Bridge to College Program, and Improve Your Tomorrow (IYT), providing students with guidance and support tailored to their goals and interests.

  • Success Through Education Mentoring (STEM) is a University of California, Davis based educational resource program designed to help students plan for life beyond high school. STEM connects students with UC Davis undergraduates from a variety of majors for engaging workshops and mentoring sessions. Through hands-on activities and informative presentations, students not only learn the skills and requirements needed for college and career success, but also build confidence, leadership, and a strong sense of community.
  • The Mindset Academy Mentoring Program emphasizes student empowerment, the importance of mental and emotional wellness, and helping students recognize their unique talents and gifts. Through the program, students develop practical tools to tackle obstacles, seize opportunities, and make thoughtful decisions. Participants learn to lead with confidence, stay goal-oriented and consistent, build positive relationships, and embrace a growth mindset – skills aimed to serve them both in and out of school.
  • The Bridge to College Program helps 11th and 12th-grade first-generation students navigate the path to higher education by providing mentorship, confidence-building, and practical tools for college applications, financial aid, and academic readiness. This program offers student-centered, wraparound support to foster belonging, college knowledge, and preparation for success in higher education.
  • Improve Your Tomorrow is an education-focused nonprofit dedicated to increasing the number of young men of color who attend and graduate from college. Through leadership development, near-peer mentoring, college access support, academic advising, and career preparation, IYT works to remove systemic barriers and close the college opportunity gap for young men of color.

Introducing Visions’ Classified Staff Mentorship Program

This year, Visions is piloting a new Classified Staff Mentorship Program, where students will be paired with classified (office) staff who serve as mentors and guides. Furthermore, these staff are being trained and equipped with tools and resources to mentor and support students in a variety of other ways throughout the organization. This program aims to help students navigate their academic journey at Visions and prepare for life beyond school. Mentors come from a variety of backgrounds and receive specialized training from Armoni Easley of Easley Done & Co., ensuring they are well-equipped to support and guide our students.

“For students who haven’t found a consistent mentor, this opportunity will not only help students connect with staff but will give staff the opportunity to grow their leadership and mentoring skills as well. This is a program that, if it had been provided while I was attending school, I would’ve definitely taken advantage of.” – Matt Patterson, Director of Student Services

Happy National Mentoring Month!

Student Spotlight: Supported Today, Prepared for Tomorrow

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Student Spotlight: Supported Today, Prepared for Tomorrow

At Visions In Education, we champion personalized pathways to student success. When Shonnie W. was not receiving the support she needed in traditional school settings, she enrolled in Visions’ Independent Study Academy. Three years later, she is a successful junior, thriving both academically and personally.

The Value of Support

A highlight of Shonnie’s time as a student at Visions has been the strong relationships she has built with her teachers and counselor. “My relationship with my teacher and counselor is great,” she shared. “I am comfortable with them, and they are both very helpful and reassuring.”

That support has made a lasting impact on her experience, something her teachers have also noticed. “Shonnie is an amazing student and individual,” shared Lisa Rainbolt, Shonnie’s teacher. Reflecting on her journey, Shonnie added, “I appreciate all of the help and support given by each of my teachers and my counselor, and I cannot thank them enough.”

Shonnie’s favorite part of being a student at Visions is the ability to complete her school work at a pace that works for her. With support from her teachers and counselor, taking charge of her learning schedule has allowed Shonnie to make substantial progress toward her educational goals.

In addition to her academic success, she has had the opportunity to explore her passions outside of school, including sewing, swimming, and cosmetics. To support the whole child, Visions provides students with funds for activities and connects them to enrichment programs. Shonnie has used these resources to expand her sewing skills. 

Setting Sights on What’s Next

Looking to the future, Shonnie has set goals to attend the University of California, Berkeley or Yale University, and plans to work toward becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. 

When asked for advice, Shonnie said she would encourage students considering Visions to enroll for “the support that you receive from the school.” 

“I would like to give a shout-out to Mrs. Brunckhorst for being an amazing teacher for my ninth and tenth grade years at Visions. I would like to give a shout-out to Mrs. Rainbolt. She has been awesome! I must give a shout-out to my counselor, Jen, who has been with me for three years now. I appreciate all the help and support from each of you, and I cannot thank you enough. One more year to go!!”

Get to Know PLI TOSA April Ashton

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Get to Know PLI TOSA April Ashton

April Ashton is an instructional coach and professional learning facilitator who leverages research and data to drive high-impact learning. She holds multiple subject and single subject credentials and has supported caseloads across Visions’ Home School Academy, Online Middle School, and Independent Study programs. Her coaching includes 1:1 sessions, New Family Orientations, SCOE Induction Mentoring, and Family Learning Communities, where she helps educators and families build confidence and apply effective strategies. Her action research in the Science of Reading guides her work in equipping teachers with evidence-based practices that strengthen literacy and student success. In February, April Ashton will present alongside PLI Department colleagues at the California Consortium for Independent Study Conference.

The Professional Learning Team at Visions In Education provides professional learning, coaching & consultation, as well as instructional best practices and action research, to ensure that 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. April Ashton is skilled in leveraging educational technology and data to inform instruction, streamline workflows, and improve student outcomes. She is committed to helping teachers and family partners confidently implement effective strategies that meet diverse student needs outside the traditional classroom.

Student Spotlight: Pursuing Her Passions

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Student Spotlight: Pursuing Her Passions

At Visions In Education, students are empowered to learn at their own pace while diving deep into the passions that make them who they are. For students like Home School 8th grader Fiori A., this is key.

Fiori enrolled at Visions in 6th grade to access a curriculum and support system that would help her meet her learning goals, especially in math, after she had fallen behind at her previous school. Working at her own pace, met with the right curriculum and support from her teacher, has made all the difference for Fiori. When asked about her relationship with her teacher, she shared, “[Ms. Allen has] been one of the best parts about Visions for me. She always lets me express myself, share my thoughts and schoolwork, always making sure I’m on the right path.”

Dancing Toward Her Dreams

Being a student at Visions has allowed Fiori to make progress academically while pursuing her passions. “Visions gives me time during the day to practice my creative interests while still staying on track academically, which makes school feel more personalized and enjoyable for me,” Fiori shared

Fiori is especially passionate about dance. She has been training since the age of 9, steadily strengthening her technique, confidence, and discipline. Her commitment has led to remarkable opportunities, including five consecutive summers at the prestigious Debbie Allen Dance Academy Summer Intensives.

That training opened the door to a milestone she describes as “a dream come true”: auditioning for Debbie Allen’s Hot Chocolate Nutcracker. “[Finding] out Mrs. Debbie Allen herself wanted me in her award-winning production was the best news I have ever received,” Fiori recalled. She was cast in an impressive four roles, an achievement that reflects both her talent and tireless work. This month, she continues to grow as a performer while rehearsing for The Nutcracker Bird with the Berkeley Ballet Theater.

Building Confidence Through Creativity 

Fiori’s creativity doesn’t stop at dance. She has also been sewing for five years, and last summer, she brought her skills to the runway when she designed, created, and modeled her first three-piece suit in a fashion show. In addition to dance and design, she loves to sing and act, and plans to keep developing each craft with hopes of one day building a career in the performing arts. With her determination and hard work, she is sure to be successful. “She is dynamic, respectful, organized, creative, and accomplishes her goals,” shared Ms. Allen, Fiori’s teacher.

Since enrolling with Visions, she has also strengthened her writing skills. She has enjoyed writing since she was young, explaining, “What I enjoy about writing is how it lets me express my ideas and thoughts into a story.” Through expanded curriculum options and elective courses at Visions, Fiori has had the opportunity to explore new writing styles and expand her horizons as a writer. She’s also had increased support from her teacher, receiving personalized feedback that has helped her grow even more. “From my very first year at Visions, Ms. Allen has given me feedback on my writing which not only supports my creativeness but also strengthens my technical writing abilities,” she shared.

The Power of Support

Fiori has made impressive progress in her academic and personal goals since enrolling with Visions, including overcoming her struggle with test anxiety. When she used to take a test, she explained that she faced a racing heart and fear that would bring her to tears. Now, she can take tests calmly and confidently. When explaining what helped her overcome this fear, she shared, “What helped me get to this point is Visions and having supporters like Ms. Allen, my mom, and other teachers I have met in Zoom classes. They have helped me overcome my test anxiety and realize I can do anything I set my mind to.”

When asked what she would share with a student considering Visions, Fiori shared, “If you’re coming to Visions, be prepared to have the best years of schooling ever, and to meet amazing new people. Always remember to work hard and do your best. Your teachers at Visions will always have your back.”

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!