Entries by Ronaldo Gomez

Throwback Thursday: Communications Over 25 Years

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Throwback Thursday graphic

Throwback Thursday: Communications Over 25 Years

Before The Wire, Visions communicated our school’s important information through quarterly Visions View newspapers. Comprised of messages from Visions’ founder and former Program Director Linda Gattenbein, legislative news, celebration articles, student stories, graduation info, school calendars, and more, Visions View served as the primary means of communication to our thousands of students in our eight-county service area at the time.

Hot Off the Press

Curious what was making Visions headlines circa 2002? Check out some snippets below!

Screenshot of Visions old newspaper "Visions View" from August 15, 2002
Screenshot of Visions old newspaper "Visions View" from September 15, 2002
Screenshot of the "Visions View" newspaper from December 16, 2002.

Since the days of print newsletters, our communication methods have come a long way. Our redesigned website and The Wire now keep our community informed, inspired, and connected. Both platforms have gone through their own transformations over the years — click on the images below and take a look back at our earlier versions!

Screenshot that says "Contribute to the Wire - Submit a post! - Got an article idea for the Wire? Submit it now!"

Screenshot of the Student Calendar from the old Visions website in May 2016.

Screenshot of the old Visions website including Announcements and the Student Calendar from April 2016.

Blue circle with text that reads "1% Better"

From 10 to 25

This past year, we’ve been celebrating 25 years of serving students and families at Visions. But looking back at other milestones is important to understanding how we got to where we are today.

While we’re still uncovering the mystery behind the cut out heads (it has “Fred Lamora” written all over it!), the 10th Anniversary Edition of Visions View (pictured below) captures the spirit of that era with heartfelt quotes from alumni and memories from our first decade.

“I came back to show my wife and kids the school that gave me a final chance to make something of my life.” 

Jeff Rankin, Class of 2001

“My parents taught me at home when I was growing up. My mother and father got a lot of help from my Visions teacher. I can’t say enough good things about the school.”

Angela Calloway, Class of 2003

“I know I am a little old to be running around in a school T-shirt, but I wear it all the time and I secretly love having people say things like, ‘Oh, you’re a Visions graduate. I bet you’re really proud to have that name on your diploma. I wish I could have gone there.”

Melanie Johnston, Class of 2004

Our 25th Year Impact Report contains similar sentiments from leadership, including Superintendent Dr. Steve Olmos, Chief Academic Officer Dr. Micah Studer, Director of Instruction for Independent Study and University Prep Sarah McFarland, and more. Here’s what they had to say about our strengths, opportunities, and the future of Visions:

“Visions’ greatest strengths are our people—the teachers, staff, students, and families who are at the hearts of our school. Over the years, we have built a culture based on relationships, where educators work closely with students, families and each other. We are deeply committed to meeting students where they are in their personal journey.” – Sarah McFarland, Director of Instruction for Independent Study and University Prep

Screenshot of Visions old newspaper "Visions View" from August 15, 2000

“We have the opportunity to create academic social-emotional learning programs that our students and our communities need. We can respond to the changing world of education as it evolves; we are not locked in one model. We can try and learn different things to create systems to help our kids.” Dr. Micah Studer, Chief Academic Officer

“[To Visions Students]: You received your education the way you did because people built a solid foundation for you. Giving back generously and holding firmly and courageously to the values that made Visions what it is can be part of your expression of gratitude, helping to preserve what you received for others.” – Mark Holman, Board of Directors Chairperson

“I believe the future is bright for schools like Visions. We are able to meet students where they are, provide individual attention, and work with them to find success. Schools like Visions can lead the way in disrupting the traditional educational system.” – Dr. Steve Olmos, Superintendent/Executive Director 

Mural with Visions timeline created for the 10th anniversary.
A mural that was constructed for our 10th anniversary!

Visions In Education Is Open At Our New Building!

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Text that reads "Now Open" in the sky above the exterior of the new Visions building showing the logo.

Visions In Education Is Open At Our New Building!

NEW ADDRESS: 11931 Foundation Place, Gold River, CA

Visions In Education is now fully moved into our new building located at 11931 Foundation Place, Gold River! With freeway access, a more modern design, and space for our growing school, our new building is now open and ready to serve our families. 

Our offices at our former location in Carmichael are now closed to the public; please go to our new office location if you need to access our services.

Hours of Service

Main Offices

Monday – Friday

8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Student Technology Services (STS)

Monday – Friday

10:00 a.m – 6:30 p.m.

Student Technology Services Located In the Back!

If you need to access Visions Student Technology Services (STS), please drive around the back of the building and enter through the marked door in the back of the building (See the map below). 

Photo of an external office door that reads "Student Technology Services" and the hours "Monday - Friday Student Support 10 AM - 6:30 PM; Staff Support 8 AM - 4:30 PM"
Map showing where Student Technology Services is located at the Visions In Education Building (on the rear side).

STEM For Success: Building Confidence, Community, And College Readiness

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Group photo of Visions STEM students on a fieldtrip to UC Davis, in front of a blue wall with text that reads "UC Davis"

STEM for Success: Building Confidence, Community, and College Readiness

At Visions, we offer a variety of student programs to foster learning and engagement beyond traditional studies. These programs include student clubs, Find Your Voice, California Scholarship Federation (CSF), Mindset Academy, Bride to College, and our growing Success Through Education Mentoring (STEM) program.

During the 2024-25 school year, a group of Visions students participated in our STEM program, where they partnered with University of California, Davis undergraduates from a variety of majors to learn about the requirements and skills necessary for college and post-graduation success. Through campus tours, one-on-one time with their mentors, informational presentations, and hands-on activities, our students learned the importance of community, confidence, leadership, determination, and being goal-oriented.

“I liked this club because I found it very helpful in knowing what college looks like,” says University Prep Academy student Shefaa B. “I feel more prepared and excited for college.”

“The support all year has been a blessing,” adds University Prep student Daniel H. “Meeting with the mentors gave me an opportunity to learn what college would be like on a personal level as well as plan for what I need to do. The weekly check-ins provided were also helpful and I liked the interactive aspect.”

Visions STEM students listening to their teacher talk to them during a fieldtrip at a university.
Visions STEM students walking on a sidewalk trail at a university during a fieldtrip.
Visions STEM students looking through a telescope.

Finding Strength Through STEM

STEM was born out of a personal vision shaped by struggle and hardship. Founders F. Ibal and K. Avila, coming from diverse backgrounds, faced numerous challenges throughout their educational journeys. However, having mentors to guide and support them made a significant difference. That experience inspired them to create a program designed to bridge the gap between high school and the next stages of education and career.

Today, Visions students benefit from the program through increased confidence, leadership, resilience, and more, gaining lifelong skills that empower them both personally and professionally.

“The program was very interactive and fun,” shares Independent Study Academy student Yasmena H. “I loved how we all got a chance to express our opinions or talk about ourselves!”

Independent Study student Ellina H. agrees, adding, “I loved how everyone was so kind and I never felt awkward to talk on Zoom.”

Visions STEM students on the roof of a university building during a fieldtrip, waiting to look out of a telescope.

Celebrating A Successful Year

At the end of the school year, our STEM students celebrated their time in the program with a banquet alongside their fellow program participants. It was the perfect opportunity to reflect on what they’d learned from this opportunity and how they hope to use these skills going forward.

“It was a great way to gain valuable information not only for college but for our future,” shares University Prep student Samuel G.

“Over the two years I have been in this club, it helped me learn more about college and become more comfortable talking and asking questions,” adds University Prep student Adrien K.

Thank you to Social Worker Sergio Fuentes for managing this program, and congratulations to our students for their hard work and dedication to their futures!

Join the Program

Interested students currently enrolled with Visions can find the form information on The Wire.

STEM is a year-long program open to high school students of all backgrounds, grades, and life situations. Participating students will not only acquire the tools needed for post-graduation success, but will gain a sense of confidence and leadership while forming lasting friendships with mentors and other Visions students.

STEM meets twice a month for workshops and activities presented by UC Davis mentors in coordination with Visions staff. While the organization is based out of UC Davis, the mentoring program is facilitated at the Visions In Education office in Gold River.

Visions’ Main Office And STS Closed June 19th For Juneteenth

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Green graphic with multi-colored red, yellow, and green text that reads "Juneteenth"

Visions' Main Office And STS Closed June 19th For Juneteenth

Visions’ main office and Student Technology Services (STS) will be closed Thursday, June 19th in observance of Juneteenth. We will resume operations during regular business hours on Friday, June 20th at our new office located at 11931 Foundation Pl. in Gold River.

Resources & Information

Juneteenth is a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery. For more information, see the following resources:

Celebrating Our 25th Graduating Class: The Class Of 2025

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Group of Visions graduates posing in their caps and gowns in front of a Visions backdrop.

Celebrating Our 25th Graduating Class: The Class Of 2025

We are proud to celebrate our 25th graduating class at Visions In Education, an achievement that represents not only our school’s stability but also the dedication of our students, families, and educational community. This year marks our largest graduating class in Visions’ history, with over 1,500 students achieving their high school diplomas and embarking on their next chapter of success.

For over a quarter-century, Visions In Education has supported its communities by providing personalized educational experiences. We are deeply grateful to the families who have entrusted us with their students’ academic journeys. Whether students seek additional time to explore their passions, require flexible scheduling to accommodate their unique circumstances, or need enhanced academic support, Visions continues to cultivate an environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential.

“But here’s what we know now: this experience, this independent journey, made us stronger. It taught us how to motivate ourselves, how to be resilient, and how to be accountable. We didn’t just prepare for college or careers - we prepared for life.”

Madiha R.

Madiha R.Class of 2025

“To all of my fellow Neurodivergent peers here today, I am proud of you. We fight to be taken seriously, gain respect, and learn in ways that benefit us. While it is a long and hard road, the destination is sweet, and we have made it to our destination today.”

Allura A.

Allura A.Class of 2025

“From peer to peer, me to you: we are the group that could foster change. I want you to know that you can make a difference and your voice matters!”

Aliannah R

Aliannah RClass of 2025

“I hope you always believe in your worth and remember how far you’ve come. Whether you’re heading to college, jumping into a career, or still figuring it out—be proud of your journey.
To our families, teachers, and everyone who’s been part of our story—thank you for seeing something in us. Your support has meant everything.”

Rebecca N.

Rebecca N.Class of 2025

“As we walk across this stage today, remember that this diploma represents more than just credits earned. It represents perseverance, late nights, personal growth, and all of the individuals along the way.”

Saira M.

Saira M.Class of 2025



SEE ALL THE PHOTOS FROM THE BIG DAY!



WATCH OUR SPEAKERS AND PERFORMERS!

Academic Excellence and College Readiness

The Class of 2025 has demonstrated exceptional academic ambition and achievement. These remarkable students have completed over 200 community college courses through partnerships with institutions across the California Community College network. At Visions, students that express interest in pursuing college-level coursework, regardless of their field of interest, have the opportunity to explore those passions while earning valuable college credits that will serve them well in their future endeavors.

This year, Visions also celebrated four student-athletes who signed their National Letters of Intent to their recruited colleges to play soccer, volleyball, and tennis. We are proud of their dedication to their passions as they move on and represent their graduating class with honor. Read their stories and about our Class of 2025 National Letter of Intent Signing Day.

Early Graduates: A Head Start

Last February, we celebrated over 220 early graduates at our very first Fall graduation ceremony. The ceremony was established as a way to honor our graduates that finished all graduation requirements by January 2025. Students who were unable to attend were invited to participate in the June ceremony. Visions is proud to offer a space to celebrate each graduate for their achievements and success. Read about our Early Graduation Commencement Ceremony here.

Hear From Your Principal

Throughout their journey at Visions, our graduates have had the privilege of connecting with our dedicated leadership team at regional events, school dances, field trips, and other Visions events. Our principals and administrative staff have watched with pride as these students have grown, overcome challenges, and achieved their goals. Hear from them below. 

“This year's graduating Class of 2025 has worked diligently to grow beyond their dreams. High school graduation is a special time for each of you to reflect on your growth as a learner and to know that you will remember this day forever! Relish your accomplishments and look forward to future successes. May you continue to move forward with confidence and care. Congratulations!”

Shannon AlwardIndependent Study Principal

“We are proud to celebrate the Class of 2025—an inspiring group of students who have demonstrated perseverance, creativity, and dedication throughout their high school journey. From dual enrollment achievements to personal projects and community impact, these seniors are leaving a legacy of excellence in self-directed learning.”

Christina McKinnisUniversity Prep Principal

"Class of 2025, your journey has been one of growth, resilience, and determination. As you step into the next chapter, remember that you have the power to shape the world with your courage, kindness, and dreams—go forward and make it extraordinary."

Morgan LynchHome School Principal

“To the incredible Class of 2025: Your perseverance, growth, and accomplishments have shaped a legacy of strength and unity that will inspire future classes for years to come. Today’s graduation ceremony is more than a milestone; it is a celebration of every challenge you've overcome and every dream you've dared to pursue. As you step into the world, may you lead with purpose, live with courage, and never stop believing in the power of your potential.”

Jasmin PatelIndependent Study Principal

“Congratulations to the Class of 2025! This graduation marks both a remarkable achievement and the beginning of exciting new chapters in your lives. Move forward with courage, compassion, positivity, and confidence—you will shape the world with your unique gifts."

Heidi PerryHome School Principal

"This year’s graduating class has shown exceptional resilience, creativity, and heart, rising to every challenge with determination and grace. Today’s ceremony is more than a celebration—it’s a powerful milestone that honors their growth and the journey they’ve each taken. As they step into the next chapter, my hope is that they continue to lead with purpose, pursue their passions boldly, and stay true to who they are."

Todd LewisIndependent Study Principal

“Graduation deserves to be celebrated and recognized as an important step in this journey of life. This generation of students, your generation, faces unprecedented challenges and negativity, and I'm always amazed at how both individually and as a group you all overcome those who would hold you back. I look forward to the time when these graduates are the ones in charge and making great decisions for all of us.”

Gregg MosesIndependent Study Principal

"The Class of 2025 has inspired us with their perseverance, accomplishments, and commitment to growth. Each graduate, including those with special needs, has overcome unique challenges and benefited from the meaningful impact of inclusive education and strong support systems. As they move ahead, I hope they embrace their futures with confidence, purpose, and a continued belief in their own potential."

Kamari GuinnSPED Program Specialist

"Congratulations to the graduating homeschool seniors! You have followed a unique path to reach this milestone, and your perseverance, commitment, and determination have carried you through. Continue to take advantage of all that lies ahead, knowing that taking the 'road less traveled' is full of adventure, fulfillment and accomplishment. Well done! "

Edwina CirelliHome School Principal

Acknowledging Our Dedicated Team

Behind every successful graduation ceremony is a dedicated team of professionals who work tirelessly to ensure our students receive the celebration they deserve. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our  Graduation Team, whose meticulous planning and unwavering commitment to student success made this momentous occasion possible.

Thank you: Keely Adams, Lindsey Nance, Jackeline Ochoa, Georgina Rios, Mariah Ernst-Collins, Matthew Patterson, Micah Studer, Kevin Wellsfry, Richard Eldridge, Adam Steffensrud, Soren Gutierrez, Justina Janas, Benjamin Drahmann, Jamee Block, and Betty Brady. Your dedication to our students and our mission does not go unnoticed, and we are grateful for your exceptional service.

Thank you to Superintendent Dr. Steve Olmos as well as our serving Board of Directors, Vice Chairperson Terrance Shelton, Board Member Sam Smalls, and Board Member Clark Sheu for their attendance.

Shop The Spirit Store

Need a gift for your grad? We have Visions merchandise and Class of 2025 swag available in our Spirit Store – start shopping!

Congratulations once again to the Class of 2025. Your achievements today are just the beginning of the remarkable contributions you will make to your communities and beyond. We are honored to have been part of your educational journey and look forward to celebrating your continued success in the years to come.

Visions 24-25 Events: Celebrating Community

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Collage of students and staff with a light blue background and the Visions logo in the top right corner.

Visions 24-25 Events: Celebrating Community

As the 2024-2025 school year draws to a close, we celebrate the vibrant community spirit that has flourished through our diverse events program. At Visions In Education, we believe that learning extends far beyond the classroom, and this year’s events have embodied that philosophy.

Enriching Education Through Real-World Learning

Visions students this year explored new sites and participated in new activities alongside their classmates. From intimate museum explorations to energetic ballpark gatherings, each event has created space for meaningful relationships to bloom. This year, Visions students were given the opportunity to register for over 650 school events in LPAD.

These carefully curated experiences have given our students opportunities to discover common interests, share new perspectives, and forge friendships

Students explored their interests through hands-on activities. These immersive experiences have deepened their understanding while making learning memorable and enjoyable.

Once In A Lifetime Moments

High School students were encouraged to attend this year’s Back to School Bash and Winter Dance as part of our Fall events offerings! We followed these popular events with our highly-requested Spring Fling and Under The Sea Dances. Check out photos from these events and more below!

Interested in more? View our event recap reels on our TikTok and Instagram! 

Thank You Staff and Teachers!

Behind every successful event stands our remarkable team of educators and staff. Our Events team, Counselors, Principals, Vice Principals, Teachers, and support staff pour their hearts into creating these experiences. Their dedication ensures that each event serves its greater purpose: building community, enhancing education, and celebrating the unique spirit of Visions In Education. We can’t thank you enough for making our events so meaningful for our families!

Visions In Education Is Moving!

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Gold River Visions In Education building with the exterior logo lit up.

Visions In Education Is Moving!

We’re excited to announce that after nearly two years of renovations, we are finally ready to move into our new facility at 11931 Foundation Place, Gold River!

If you need to access Visions In Education’s services, please see the following dates and times for reference. 

Student Technology Services (STS) 

If you need to access Visions Student Technology Services, please keep the following dates in mind. 

  • June 9-11: STS is open at 11931 Foundation Place, Gold River from 10:00 a.m to 6:30 p.m. STS is located at the back of the building. 
  • June 12 & 13: STS and our main offices will be closed at both Carmichael and Gold River. Staff will provide remote service only.
  • June 16: STS will reopen at 10 a.m. in Gold River. 

Main Offices 

If you need to access any other services, please keep the following dates in mind. 

  • June 11: Last day for services at 5030 El Camino Ave. Please visit our offices before 3:30 PM if you need to access any critical in-person services. 
  • June 12 – June 16: Main office closed to the public. Staff will provide remote service for June 12, 13, and 16. Note: STS will be open to the public on June 16 in Gold River.
  • June 17: Visions In Education Main Offices open to the public at 8:00 a.m.

We look forward to serving you in our new home!

Celebrating Pride Month

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Pink graphic that says "pride" in rainbow colors.

Celebrating Pride Month

June is recognized as Pride Month, a time to commemorate and recognize the history of activism that has paved the way toward a more equitable society for our LGBTQI+ communities. Pride is both a celebration and a call to action—reminding us of the importance of visibility, acceptance, and the ongoing pursuit of human rights for all.

Visions In Education is proud to serve and celebrate our diverse group of staff, students and families and recognizes the storied history of the LGBTQI+ community and their fight for equality.

Resources

For more information about Pride Month, please see the following resources:

Home School Promotions 2025: Celebrating Our 8th Grade Graduates

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Visions student shaking Superintendent Olmos' hand on the stage at 8th grade promotion.

Home School Promotions 2025: Celebrating Our 8th Grade Graduates

Visions In Education is proud to announce the successful completion of three promotion ceremonies for our Home School Academy, honoring the remarkable achievements of our 8th grade students. We celebrated the promotion of our dedicated students who have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to their educational journey.

Each ceremony highlighted the core values that make Visions In Education unique: our commitment to school choice and a flexible, personalized approach to education. Throughout the celebrations, students expressed heartfelt appreciation for their credentialed teachers and counselors, who were present to witness this important milestone as each graduate walked across the stage.

Words of Wisdom 

“Don’t let high school slip by without participating in all that high school has to offer. You might join a club, have an opportunity for an internship, or make new friends. Take challenging classes! Maybe you want to start a new job or take a community college class. There are so many great opportunities for you.” – Edwina Cirelli, Home School Academy Principal.

Hear Principal Cirelli below as she delivers her final speech before retirement. Congratulations on a long and illustrious career!

“Tonight is a time to reflect on the significant moments. When you taught your student to read, to work out a complex math problem, to appreciate good music or to fall in love with science. Your students are learning and excelling and in large part; thanks to your instruction and steadfast support.” – Morgan Lynch, Home School Academy Principal. 

“Each of you sits here tonight at the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. It is the end of middle school, a time of incredible growth and self-discovery. It’s where you began to creatively explore new interest, develop deeper relationships and dream about future possibilities and professions… the hard, the highs, the lows, have helped you shape who you are becoming.” – Julie Cole, Home School Academy Principal

Hear Principals Lynch and Cole as they deliver their speeches for the Class of 2025 below!

“At Visions In Education, we do things a little differently, some of you studied fractions while at the kitchen table, wrote essays with a cat in your lap, and turned science experiments into full blown kitchen takeovers. Guess what? You didn’t just learn. You thrived.” – Heidi Perry, Home School Academy Principal.

Hear Principal Perry deliver her speech for the Class of 2025 below!

Next Stop: High School

Each graduate received well-deserved recognition from teachers, parents, and peers as they prepared to embark on their high school journey. Many of our Visions students will continue their education within our community, choosing between our Independent Study and University Prep academies for their high school years.

Supporting Tomorrow’s Leaders

As these rising 9th graders face important decisions about their educational future, Visions In Education remains committed to supporting the next generation of leaders, scholars, and accomplished student-athletes. We are excited to see where their journeys take them and are proud to have been part of their foundational educational experience. Congratulations!

View the full photo gallery from our Home School 8th Grade Promotions on Facebook!



Pleasant Hill


Citrus Heights


Lodi

Online Middle School Celebrates First 8th Grade Graduating Class

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Visions students posing with props at 8th grade promotion.

Online Middle School Celebrates First 8th Grade Graduating Class

On May 22, Visions In Education proudly marked a significant milestone with the first-ever Online Middle School (OMS) 8th grade promotion ceremony. Families and staff gathered to celebrate the achievements of this pioneering class. This celebration honored students who have successfully completed their middle school journey through our newest online academy.

Visions is proud to announce the promotion of 100 students at this year’s ceremony.

The inaugural promoting class represents the culmination of dedicated effort, academic excellence, and personal growth. These students have demonstrated that our flexible, online approach provides the individualized support necessary for educational success in today’s rapidly changing world.

Speaking Your Language

“The grit, the grind, the glow up, total main character energy. This class didn’t just pass, you ate and left no crumbs.”- Brian Albright, Online Middle School Principal.

Hear Principal Albright use more Gen-Z dialect to congratulate our OMS promoters:

“No cap”, Principal Albright also emphasized the importance of continued growth and seeking support when needed. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Don’t be afraid to say, ‘I need help,’ that’s not weakness; that’s wisdom.”



VIEW THE FULL PHOTO GALLERY FROM OUR ONLINE MIDDLE SCHOOL CEREMONY ON OUR FACEBOOK

Next Up: Finessing High School

The ceremony highlighted not only academic achievements but also the personal development and resilience each student has gained throughout their educational journey. These qualities will serve them well as they transition into high school and continue developing into confident young leaders.

Many of our OMS students are continuing their journey in our Independent Study and University Prep Academies, which provide pathways that align with their individual goals and learning preferences.

Congratulations!