Entries by Sierra Horton

Leading with Purpose: Chief Operations Officer Michael Brubaker Completes CASBO CBO BEL Program

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Leading with Purpose: Chief Operations Officer Michael Brubaker
Completes CASBO CBO BEL Program

Visions In Education is proud to celebrate Chief Operations Officer Michael Brubaker for recently completing the California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO) Chief Business Officer Business Executive Leadership (CBO BEL) Program.

At Visions, we are committed to making thoughtful, data-informed decisions that ensure students and families continue to receive the highest level of support. Through his dedication to professional growth and leadership development, Michael is even better equipped to help guide our school community into the future.

“One of the things I appreciated most about the CASBO CBO BEL Program was how practical and relevant the learning was to my role. The program expanded my understanding of school finance and operational leadership, while also giving me the opportunity to collaborate with and learn from other school business leaders throughout California,” Michael explained.

Strengthening Leadership Through Learning

Michael completed the program’s accelerated track, designed specifically for current educational leaders seeking to strengthen their executive leadership and operational expertise. Over the course of six months, he joined school business officials from across California in intensive, practice-based learning focused on the real-world challenges facing schools today.

Participants explored topics including executive decision-making, long-term strategic planning, districtwide operations, and navigating fiscal volatility in education. Through collaboration with experienced Chief Business Officials and peers across the state, leaders gained practical tools and insights to better serve their school communities.

“Their commitment to growth and service will have a lasting impact on the school and communities they support every day,” CASBO shared.

Throughout the program, Michael engaged in discussions and case studies centered on leading across district systems, strengthening organizational effectiveness, and making informed decisions that positively impact students, families, and staff. The experience also provided access to a statewide network of educational leaders committed to continuous improvement and innovation in public education.

“The CASBO CBO BEL Program helped strengthen my understanding of how every operational decision ultimately supports students, families, and staff. It reinforced my belief that the Business Services team at Visions In Education plays a critical role in supporting Instruction and the incredible work being done to ensure student learning and success,” shared Michael.

Michael’s completion of the CBO BEL Program reflects Visions’ ongoing commitment to leadership, innovation, and continuous improvement. We are grateful for his dedication to lifelong learning and his commitment to always finding new ways to better serve our school community.

Congratulations, Michael, on this outstanding accomplishment!

Celebrating Our Littlest Learners: Visions Kindergarten Promotions 2026

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Celebrating Our Littlest Learners:
Visions Kindergarten Promotions 2026

Earlier this month, Visions In Education proudly celebrated our youngest learners during Home School Academy Kindergarten Promotion ceremonies across four of our service areas. Families, students, and staff came together to recognize an important milestone — completing kindergarten and taking the exciting next step into 1st grade.

Kindergarten is where a love of learning begins to grow. Throughout the school year, our students made incredible progress not only academically, but socially and emotionally as well. From learning foundational skills to building confidence, curiosity, and friendships, each student has grown in meaningful ways.

These early years lay the foundation for future success, and we are so proud of everything our kindergarten students have accomplished. We look forward to watching them continue to learn, grow, and thrive as they step into 1st grade.

Honoring Student Voices, Talents, and Achievements

The ceremonies were filled with joy and pride, as students’ proudly donned their blue graduation caps and celebrated with amazing student performances and speeches.

At our first promotion ceremony in Carmichael on April 23, Reign L. lit up the stage with a hip-hop performance to “The Other Side” from The Greatest Showman. Angelina T. delivered a wonderful rendition of “On My Way” by Pevan & Sarah, while RJ M. shared a heartwarming speech with fellow kindergartners about all they learned this year. Eighth grader CJ M. also inspired the audience with a powerful message about the importance of perseverance and never giving up.

Our second promotion ceremony in Concord featured an original poem written and performed by Hudson G., along with a fabulous rendition of “Golden” by Madison T.

In Suisun, our third promotion celebration was highlighted by a special keyboard performance of “Golden” and “10,000 Reasons” by Angelo T.

Finally, our last kindergarten promotion ceremony in Lodi featured an energetic dance performance to “Party All Around the World” by Destiny S., as well as a joyful speech from Ariel A., who proudly shared that our kindergartners are “ready to show you all we know!”

“Our Visions families and staff stood in awe of these remarkable children – scholars, performers, and future leaders. From speeches delivered with wisdom far beyond their years to inspiring performances in dance, piano, and song, the celebration was filled with pride, joy, and excitement as families watched their kindergarten graduates shine,” shared Dr. Vasa Lokteff, Home School Director of Instruction.

A special thank you to all Visions staff members and teachers who supported our kindergarten promotion ceremonies and helped create a meaningful day for our students and families.












Building Their Futures Today: A Spotlight on the Introduction to Construction Directed Project

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Building Their Futures Today: A Spotlight on the
Introduction to Construction Directed Project

Here at Visions, our mission is to empower students to find their own path to success. A key part of that mission is making sure students are prepared for what comes next—whether that’s college, career, or both.

Career Technical Education (CTE) plays an important role in that journey, giving students the opportunity to explore real-world career pathways while still in high school. Through hands-on learning and career exploration, students gain valuable skills and insight into their future.

At Visions, we offer a variety of CTE pathways so students can begin exploring their interests early. This spring, we expanded those opportunities by launching a new pilot course for juniors and seniors: Introduction to Construction Directed Project.

Introduction to Construction Directed Project

This innovative course gives students in grades 11 and 12 the opportunity to build hands-on construction skills, gain industry knowledge, and earn academic credit—all while exploring a potential career path.

Students and staff at the Pacific Gas & Electric(PG&E) field trip.

While the course is primarily online and self-paced, students also participate in hands-on projects through our partnership with Northern California Construction Training (NCCT). These  in-person training sessions take place at Cal Expo in Sacramento and allow students to apply what they’ve learned in a real shop or worksite environment, bringing their skills to life through hands-on practice. Students have built several projects this semester including benches, tool boxes, bird houses, and creative shadow boxes. 

To further support skill development and safety, students use Virtual Reality headset simulations at home, allowing them to safely practice techniques before stepping into a live environment.

Students also take part in field trips with local industry partners, including Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), where they learn directly from professionals and experience construction careers in action. “I am learning how to properly and safely use and manage power tools, how to work with others, and how the information I’ve learned can help me in a career in the trades,” shared Ray B., Independent Study 11th grader.

The Spring semester was the Pilot of the Intro to Construction class. Beginning next school year (2026/27) Visions will be offering this as a full year course with plans of continued growth. Through opportunities like this, Visions continues to equip students with the skills, confidence, and real-world experience they need to succeed beyond graduation.

“The Intro to Construction Directed Project course has equipped me with many valuable skills that will be beneficial in the near future. I learned how to use hand tools and powered tools, how to respond appropriately in hazardous situations, and how to protect myself by wearing the correct personal protective equipment (PPE). Additionally, the course also taught me construction-specific math and how to use a tape measure correctly while remembering what fractions go on what line. This course is preparing me for life after high school by introducing me to different types of trades and careers that align with my personal interests. I’ve come to realize that welding and operating heavy machinery are potential career options for me, as I’ve gained an interest in these areas and would possibly pursue a career in them in the future. Overall, this course has been extremely fun and offers a great opportunity to express creativity through the projects we build.” – Nevaeh S., Independent Study 11th grader

Last week, Visions students, staff, and parents gathered for the last class of the Spring semester, giving students the opportunity to present all the skills they have learned throughout this course.








Explore Career Technical Education at Visions

To learn more about Visions’ current CTE offerings at any time, please visit our Support Services page.








Student Spotlight: Lights, Learning, Action!

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Student Spotlight: Lights, Learning, Action!

For Bethany L., creativity has always been a part of who she is — she simply needed the right environment to help it flourish.

Nearly three years ago, Bethany enrolled at Visions as a 6th grader after finding the traditional public school schedule overwhelming and limiting her ability to fully explore her passions and interests outside the classroom.

“I wanted her to actually enjoy her middle school years, read important books, and nurture her artistic skills,” Bethany’s mom, Marisa, shared.

Now an 8th grader in Visions Home School Academy, Bethany has found more than just academic success. Over the past several years, she has built meaningful friendships, discovered new creative confidence, and made lasting memories during these important foundational years.

A Learning Experience Built on Creativity and Care

As a creative learner, Bethany has especially appreciated the flexibility to personalize her daily learning schedule. The ability to complete schoolwork in a way that aligns with her unique learning style has not only strengthened her academic experience, but also given her the time and space to pursue her artistic passions outside the classroom.

Bethany’s mom, Marisa, reflected on the impact of that flexibility, sharing that Visions’ learning model “allowed our family to custom-design our student’s education together according to her interests.”

Another key part of Bethany’s success has been the strong partnership she built with her credentialed teacher, Jazzie Burns. “She is hands down my favorite teacher I’ve had,” Bethany shared, describing her as understanding, kind, and consistently supportive throughout her Visions journey.

“She is our most valued team member,” Marisa added. “A constant advocate for our student’s needs and best interests.”

For Bethany, both her teacher and her mother have played an important role in shaping her growth and confidence. “Both Ms. Jazzie and my mom have been mentors in my life and have made a huge impact on not only how I see the world, but how I move through it. Both have developed my skills greatly.”

These meaningful relationships, combined with the personalized learning experience at Visions, created opportunities for Bethany to further explore her creativity — especially through her student enrichment budget.

“The school budget allowed my creativity to blossom, and without it I most likely wouldn’t have had the ability to explore acting,” she explained.

Above all, Bethany credits her mom for encouraging the family’s initial leap to Visions and for continuing to support every opportunity that has followed. “My mother is the reason why I’ve had as many opportunities as I did, and still do.”

Taking the Stage

Throughout her time at Visions, Bethany has immersed herself in the world of theatre, embracing every opportunity to grow as both a performer and an artist.

She has participated in numerous productions through the Visions’ Theatre Club, as well as through enrichment vendor Musical Mayhem Productions and its Teen Homeschool Program and Apprentice Academy. Along the way, Bethany has taken on a wide range of responsibilities both on and off the stage. “Bethany is an incredibly talented actress and artist,” said Leslie Simpson, credentialed teacher and advisor of Visions Theatre Club.

“I have been characters ranging from large ensembles singing my heart out, to lead roles making dad jokes, to assistant stage manager scuffling through blackouts setting props and set pieces,” she shared.

Of all the characters she has portrayed, Bethany says her favorite was playing the mother in An Absolutely True Story as Told by a Bunch of Lying Liars with Visions Theatre Club. The role challenged her to stretch her acting abilities in new ways. “I really enjoyed this role because I had the ability to be very expressive on stage, and was faced with the challenge of having to show multiple emotions at once, while also having to exaggerate each one so it was readable from afar,” Bethany explained.

Leading up to the production, Bethany also attended a field trip to see The Lion King at Broadway At Music Circus — an experience that left a lasting impression on her creative journey. She was especially inspired by the production’s life-sized puppets and imaginative storytelling, calling the experience “life-changing.”

“I watched my daughter’s world expand in front of me as a cast and crew of professional artists brought an entire fantasy world to life before her very eyes,” Marisa shared.

Inspired by what she saw, Bethany brought her own creativity to the stage in her recent production by designing and building a life-sized dog puppet by hand. The process involved months of research, sketching, experimentation, and problem-solving as she explored everything from puppet mechanics and flexibility to materials and movement. “I came up with ideas, and sketched constantly,” she explained.

Using materials such as foam, aluminum foil, rope, and faux fur, Bethany carefully crafted each piece of the puppet herself. What began as an idea eventually became a nine-month creative project fueled by patience, imagination, and dedication.

“From idea to execution, it turned out to be nine months of planning, waiting, and building, but when it was time for the show and I saw people’s faces light up seeing the dog, I knew it was all worth it.”

That experience directly connects to the advice Bethany now shares with other Visions students: explore your interests and take advantage of the opportunities available to you. “Visions allows students to adventure. To find ways to express themselves and their interests,” she said. She encourages fellow students to get involved, try new things, and build meaningful connections with others along the way.

Prepared For The Next Act

While Bethany has spent her middle school years exploring the stage and growing creatively, she has remained equally focused on her academic goals and future aspirations.

In 8th grade, Bethany is already beginning her college journey through dual enrollment courses and has earned seven college credits — an impressive accomplishment that reflects both her drive and readiness to challenge herself academically.

Looking ahead, Bethany has applied for a summer program through University of California, Berkeley and plans to graduate high school with her associate degree from American River College. While she is still exploring what career path she wants to pursue, she knows one thing for certain: “Whatever it is, I want to be ready.”

By building such a strong foundation during her middle school years, Bethany is entering high school with confidence, independence, and a clear understanding of who she is as both a learner and a person.

“My Visions student is walking into high school with confidence, college credits, and workforce experience,” Marisa shared. “She’s had positive, structured social experiences and has curated a group of like-minded, intentional friendships with other theater kids and crafters. Thank you, Visions!”

When she is not performing on stage, creating art, or working on school assignments, Bethany enjoys spending time in nature and caring for her cats and chickens.

Grad Spotlight: Finding Her Voice

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Grad Spotlight: Finding Her Voice

When Keira started Kindergarten, she was eager to learn and excited to follow in the footsteps of her older sister, Rylie.

After enrolling in Visions Home School Academy, she quickly immersed herself in enrichment activities, explored subjects she loved, and attended school events that helped shape her experience. Over the years, she discovered new passions, built meaningful friendships, and gained confidence in herself and her future.

“Visions is so much more than school,” she shared.

Now, this June, Keira will proudly cross the stage at graduation beside her sister, celebrating a journey filled with growth, creativity, and unforgettable memories before beginning her next chapter.

Growing Together: A Sister’s Journey and a Teacher’s Belief

Being just one year younger than her sister, Rylie, Keira had a front-row seat to the beginning of Rylie’s homeschooling journey at Visions. Watching her sister learn and grow inspired Keira from the very beginning, and when it became her turn to start school, she was eager to challenge herself and keep up.

Rather than being told she was too young or not ready, Keira found encouragement from someone who believed deeply in her potential — her credentialed teacher, Donelle O’Brien. “One of the most important parts of my time at Visions is my teacher,” Keira explained.

Throughout their entire educational journey, both Keira and Rylie have worked alongside Ms. O’Brien, creating a lasting bond that became much more than a traditional teacher-student relationship. 

“I’ve worked hard in everything I’ve done, but I couldn’t have done it if Ms. O’Brien didn’t believe in me,” Keira shared.

“I’ve had the honor of being Keira’s only teacher at Visions In Education since she was in Kindergarten,” shared Ms. Donelle O’Brien. “Watching her grow from a curious five-year-old into a compassionate, driven young adult has been one of the highlights of my career. It is incredibly fitting that she is now pursuing a career in speech-language pathology, as she has participated in speech during her time here. She is an amazing writer and communicator and has a gift for ensuring everyone’s voice is heard. Her journey has been defined by a deep-rooted empathy and an unwavering dedication to helping others find their voice. She is an incredible person and I’m so proud of her!”

This June, Keira and Rylie will walk the graduation stage together in a full-circle moment celebrating years of learning, perseverance, and support as a family. Standing alongside them will be the teacher who encouraged them every step of the way. “She’s watched me grow and learn, and she feels like a part of my family.”

Discovering Passions Beyond the Classroom

The meaningful connections Keira built during her time at Visions extended far beyond the virtual classroom. Through Visions enrichment vendors and school activities, she discovered opportunities to explore her interests while building friendships with students who shared similar passions.

One of the experiences that has meant the most to her has been working with Love of Learning, where she participated in in-person classes across a variety of subjects, including culinary arts. The classes gave her the chance to learn in hands-on environments while connecting with other students.

She has also spent years developing her love for music through Ringger Studios, where she has taken both piano and singing lessons. Through those lessons, she learned vocal techniques, strengthened her confidence, and explored many different music styles and genres. “I love taking lessons from her. She allows me to feel confident in singing, and she lets me experiment with different song types and genres.”

In addition to enrichment opportunities, Keira has embraced the social side of school life by attending Visions events and dances with her friends, especially prom. From picking out dresses to creating outfits for each occasion, those experiences became some of her favorite memories.

“It’s amazing that I was able to go to prom and experience something most students in charter schools don’t get to experience.”

Creativity as a Way of Life

Outside of school, creativity plays a major role in Keira’s life.

One of her favorite creative outlets is digital art, where she uses a drawing tablet to create illustrations and develop original characters for the stories she writes. She enjoys studying different artistic styles and incorporating inspiration from them into her own work.

“Art is a big part of my life. It’s my way of getting my creativity out there.”

Keira also loves dancing and performing, especially learning choreography to some of her favorite songs. Performing allows her to express herself freely while sharing her personality and creativity with others. “I enjoy being able to move freely and express myself in many different ways in front of an audience.”

Through her work with Visions enrichment vendors, she has had opportunities to showcase her singing and dancing talents in recitals and performances. “It lets me express myself and show my personality on stage.”

Turning Personal Challenges Into Purpose

As Keira prepares for graduation, she is already looking ahead to higher education and a future career helping others. During her time at Visions, she earned a head start through dual enrollment courses and plans to transfer to California State University, Sacramento to pursue speech pathology with the goal of becoming a speech therapist.

Her career aspirations are deeply personal.

As a child, Keira attended speech therapy to overcome a speech impediment and continued therapy until she was 14 years old. Through years of hard work and support, she gained confidence in her ability to communicate clearly.

“My time there inspired me to want to help others who might be experiencing the same issues,” she explained. “I want to be able to make a lasting impact on someone’s life and make them feel confident when speaking like my therapists did for me.”

When reflecting on her advice for other Visions students, Keira encourages them to embrace every opportunity available to them and explore the interests that make them unique.

“Being able to experiment with your interests can help you figure out what you may want to do in life and find who you are in the world,” she shared.

She especially encourages students to attend events and build friendships along the way. “Feeling like you are a part of a community is important. Even if your community is small, it can let you make memories and feel complete.”

Grad Spotlight: From Kindergarten to Graduation, Rylie’s Visions Journey

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Grad Spotlight: From Kindergarten to Graduation,
Rylie’s Visions Journey

In the early 2010s, a young Rylie R. started her very first year of school as a Kindergartener in Visions’ Home School Academy. This June, after spending her entire K-12 journey with Visions, she will walk across the stage at graduation.

“Visions has been one of the biggest parts of my life for what seems like forever,” Rylie shared.

Before Rylie started school, her mom explored homeschool options throughout the area before deciding that Visions was the right fit for their family. As the years passed, Rylie realized it was exactly where she wanted to stay. “[Visions] offered more for me, especially in exploring new things and working more in the arts,” she explained.

Over the years, Visions became much more than just a school. It became the place where Rylie discovered her independence, explored her passions, built meaningful connections, and gained the confidence to grow into herself.

The People Who Shaped Her Journey

Although Rylie completed her education through the Home School Academy, she built strong relationships with principals, counselors, office staff, fellow students, and especially her longtime teacher, Donelle O’Brien.

Since Rylie’s very first day of Kindergarten, Ms. O’Brien has worked with both Rylie and her sister, Keira, helping guide them through every stage of their educational journey. “Ms. O’Brien is the best teacher I could hope for,” Rylie shared. “She always encourages me in everything I do… I always feel like I have a voice with her.”

“It has been an absolute joy to watch Rylie grow from a vibrant kindergartener into a multi-talented, hardworking graduate,” shared Ms. Donelle O’Brien. “Her natural warmth and patience shine brightly in everything she does, whether she is teaching young children how to swim or preparing for a future where she can express her creativity and love for early childhood.”

Beyond the classroom, Visions activities and events helped Rylie create meaningful friendships and memories that shaped her high school experience. During her freshman year, she attended a high school craft event where she met her best friend. Since then, she has participated in Winter Dances, attended all four Proms, and is looking forward to one final end-of-year field day before graduation.

“I am so proud of her hard work and dedication. From reading stories with her during meetings when she was five, to helping her choose prom outfits from photos she sent, to hearing all about the truck she bought as her first vehicle, it has been an absolute joy to watch her journey since the first day of kindergarten!” – Ms. Donelle O’Brien

From Swim Lessons to Finding Her Passion

For Rylie, some of her favorite memories at Visions came through the school’s enrichment opportunities and student activities. Whether attending field trips, participating in hands-on classes, or exploring new hobbies, she embraced every opportunity to discover what she loved.

Using her student budget, Rylie took piano, ukulele, and voice lessons, along with swimming, dance, and gymnastics classes. Along the way, she uncovered a passion that would become one of the biggest parts of her life: swimming.

“Visions is the reason I became a competitive swimmer, and swimming is one of my biggest passions and favorite activities,” Rylie explained.

At just 5 years old, Rylie began taking swim lessons through one of Visions’ enrichment vendors and immediately fell in love with the sport. Her passion quickly grew into years of competitive swimming with the Sierra Marlins, where she balanced a demanding training schedule and competed in swim meets regularly. “I made some good friends there and got to do what I loved,” she shared.

Today, Rylie has turned that passion into a job she deeply enjoys. She now teaches swim lessons for children ranging from infants to 14 years old and is CPR and First Aid certified. “I LOVE my job,” she enthusiastically shared.

Creating a Future Centered on Creativity and Care

Swimming is not the only creative outlet that has shaped Rylie’s life. She is also a passionate artist who enjoys murals, painting, embroidery, needle felting, and experimenting with many different forms of art. Through Visions enrichment vendors and art classes, she was able to explore a wide variety of artistic styles and mediums while continuing to develop her skills.

“These different classes allowed me to find what types of art I enjoy and to try a lot of different media in the process,” she shared. One of her favorite parts of creating art is sharing it with the people she loves most.

As graduation approaches, Rylie is excited about what comes next. Through her experience as a swim instructor, she discovered a passion for working with children and is now considering becoming a preschool teacher to help young students build foundational skills early in life. She also plans to attend cosmetology school, where she can continue expressing her creativity through hairstyling and beauty. “My love for all things artistic and for creating unique styles makes me excited for this,” she explained.

“With her unique goal of entering the cosmetology field while also becoming a preschool teacher, she is perfectly suited to bring a love of learning, confidence, and care to the next generation,” explained Ms. O’Brien.

While she looks forward to the future, Rylie knows her time at Visions will always hold a special place in her heart. “Visions has been an amazing experience that I will always be thankful for,” she shared.

When asked what advice she would give to other students, Rylie encouraged them to fully embrace their experience and never be afraid to speak up.

“Never be afraid to ask questions or make suggestions. Your Visions teacher is there to support you and really cares about you and your learning. Remember, you should just be yourself, do your best, and be open to new experiences and ideas.”

It’s Good to Be Visions: Staff Development & BBQ – May 2026

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It’s Good to Be Visions: Staff Development & BBQ - May 2026

Earlier this week, more than 600 Visions staff members and teachers gathered at the Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College for our annual end-of-year staff development day. The event provided a special opportunity for staff to come together to reflect on the accomplishments of the school year, celebrate one another, and look ahead with excitement toward the future.

To kick off the morning program, Superintendent Dr. Steve Olmos welcomed staff with words of gratitude and appreciation for the incredible work accomplished throughout the year. He shared special thanks for the teachers and families who welcomed him into their homes and learning spaces during visits across the school year.

“Thank you to all of our incredible teachers and staff members for all that you do to touch the lives of our students and families. Your work and dedication truly makes a difference,” shared Dr. Olmos.

Dr. Olmos then welcomed two of our Distinguished Alumni from Visions’ inaugural Alumni Hall of Fame, Jessica Chavez and Brian Abrigana, to the stage. The audience celebrated the alumni honorees as they reflected on what the recognition meant to them and shared how Visions impacted their educational journeys.








Staff Celebrations 

The celebration continued as Director of Human Resources Donna Glenn recognized the people who make the Visions community so special. She welcomed new staff members, honored retirees, celebrated the 2025–26 All Stars, and highlighted our “Future Visionaries.”

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our retirees for the lasting impact they have made on students, families, and the organization throughout their careers. Congratulations to our All Stars for the meaningful difference they make each day, and congratulations to all staff members who welcomed a new addition to their families this year.


Celebrating Our Students

As the celebration continued, the focus shifted to the heart of everything we do: our students.

May is an especially exciting time at Visions as students are recognized through a variety of promotion and graduation ceremonies. Vasa Lokteff, Home School Director of Instruction, shared details about our kindergarten and eighth grade promotion ceremonies. These events provide meaningful opportunities for students, families, teachers, and staff to celebrate academic growth and honor students as they prepare for the next chapter of their educational journeys.

Director of Student Services Matt Patterson then provided an update on high school graduation preparations. This June, Visions will celebrate a record-breaking graduating class of more than 1,500 Visionaries during three ceremonies at the Sacramento Memorial Auditorium. Matt highlighted the many ways staff across the organization are working together to support graduates in the weeks leading up to commencement, including grad checkouts and other celebratory activities.

Matt also welcomed the recipients of the 2026 Steve Phelps American Dream Scholarship to the stage: Dulce Valdez Nava and Ariana Angel. Congratulations to both students on this well-deserved honor.




To conclude the morning program, Dr. Olmos shared Visions’ annual “1% Better” video — a powerful reflection on the many ways staff have continued striving for growth and improvement in service to students and families throughout the year. The video celebrated the collective effort behind creating an even better experience for the Visions community and highlighted why “It’s Good to Be Visions.” 





VIEW THIS YEAR'S 1% BETTER VIDEO

Cooking Up Some Fun: Staff BBQ

Following the morning program, staff gathered at the Visions office in Gold River to continue the celebration together.

Staff enjoyed a catered BBQ lunch, friendly games of cornhole, and music provided by Visions employee Raeshonn Minnifield, who kept the energy high with his DJ talents.

Throughout the afternoon, staff also captured memories in a photo booth provided by Director of Technology Uriel Gonzalez and hosted by the Marketing and Communications team.

Special thanks to all staff members who helped make this day possible, including Facilities, Human Resources, Marketing and Communications, Raeshonn Minnifield, and Assistant to the Superintendent Betty Brady.










Grad Spotlight: Turning Opportunities Into Achievement

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Grad Spotlight: Turning Opportunities Into Achievement

Two years ago, Daniel H. enrolled in Visions’ University Prep Early College Academy with a clear goal in mind: to take ownership of his education and get ahead through dual enrollment opportunities.

What he discovered was much more than an academic advantage.

As he prepares to walk across the stage at graduation this June, Daniel is reflecting on a high school journey filled with leadership, connection, and personal growth.

Finding More Than Just Academics

While Daniel has appreciated the opportunity to earn college credits and prepare for higher education, his favorite part of Visions has been the chance to grow beyond the classroom through leadership opportunities, school events, and enrichment programs.

Through enrichment vendors, Daniel explored a wide range of interests including sports, swimming, and music lessons. These experiences helped him build confidence, develop new skills, and stay connected to the activities he enjoys most.

From the moment he joined Visions, Daniel made it a priority to get involved. By participating in clubs and building relationships with students and staff, he found a strong sense of community while stepping into several leadership roles. Throughout high school, Daniel served as an ambassador for the Success Through Education Mentoring (STEM) Program, president of the Future Business Leaders Club, and a Student Council representative.

One of the defining moments of his high school experience was competing at the Junior Achievement National Leadership Conference in Atlanta. After leading his team to a second-place finish at the Junior Achievement Regional Stock Market Challenge, they earned the opportunity to advance to the national competition.

The People Who Made an Impact

Along the way, the relationships Daniel built became one of the most meaningful parts of his journey. He especially credits his counselor, Mrs. Winalski, for the support and encouragement she provided throughout his time at Visions.

“She has been so supportive and instrumental throughout my time at Visions via all of our in person and virtual conversations. Her impact on my academic journey has truly been positively paramount,” Daniel shared.

Building Skills Beyond the Classroom

Outside of academics and school activities, Daniel enjoys playing sports, learning about financial literacy, scripting in Python, and editing videos and films to capture meaningful moments and celebrations.

His creativity even earned him recognition in the Visions community. Last year, Daniel received second place in the “Why I Love Visions” student video contest. Check out his submission below!

A Future Driven by Big Goals

As graduation approaches, Daniel’s hard work is already opening doors to exciting opportunities. During college decision season, he was accepted to several prestigious universities, including UCLA, UC San Diego, and UC Davis. He also received a Regents Scholarship from UC San Diego.

“This is a huge accomplishment that I am extremely blessed to have achieved, and do not take for granted,” Daniel shared.

As he looks ahead to college, Daniel plans to pursue a career in Data Science.

When asked what advice he would give to other Visions students, he encourages them to fully embrace the opportunities and support systems available to them. “Truly do as much as you can to take advantage of the built-in infrastructure to support your goals, aspirations, and educational experience. It will go a tremendously long way.”

Visions looks forward to celebrating Daniel and all of the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 this June. Congratulations, Daniel!




Student Spotlight: Learning, Leading, & Leveling Up

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Student Spotlight: Learning, Leading, & Leveling Up

From a young age, Alisa M. had a clear sense of her interests and where she wanted to go. What she needed was the right environment to nurture those passions, strengthen her time management skills, and open doors to new opportunities.

In just two years at Visions, she has done exactly that—diving into a Career Technical Education (CTE) pathway, working with an enrichment vendor to sharpen her artistic talents, and building a personalized learning schedule that supports both her goals and her growth.

Now a junior in Visions’ Independent Study Academy, Alisa is not only thriving academically, but also giving back as a CTE Student Ambassador in the Game Design program—mentoring her peers while continuing to pursue excellence and balance in her own journey.



Explore Alisa's Portfolio

Powering Up: From Student to Ambassador

“Even before I came to Visions, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in technology or software,” Alisa shared.

Once she enrolled, stepping into the Game Design CTE pathway felt like a natural next move—but what she discovered went far beyond the basics of game design.

“I had so much more fun in this class than I could have imagined,” she said. “Not only did it deepen my knowledge of video game design, but it also opened my eyes to so many opportunities in technology and potential careers.”

After completing her first year, Visions teacher Kim Grant encouraged Alisa to take on a new challenge: becoming a CTE Student Ambassador. In this role, she mentors first-year students in the program while building leadership skills alongside peers from other CTE pathways.

“I found it to be a remarkably rewarding and fun experience,” Alisa said. “Not only did I get to help other students, but I also reinforced what I learned in year one by answering questions and working through problems again.”

One of the most meaningful parts of her experience has been the sense of community among the ambassadors. “Each ambassador brings something different to the table, and we can all use our skills to support each other and the students,” she explained.

Beyond collaboration, it’s the connections she’s built with her mentees that stand out most. “It’s been a heartwarming experience getting to know each of them,” Alisa said. “Spending time together during our meetings truly brightens my day.”

Designing Her Own Path

One of Alisa’s favorite parts of being a student at Visions has been the ability to design a schedule that truly works for her. With the opportunity to personalize her learning, she’s strengthened her time management skills—making steady progress toward her academic goals while also carving out time for activities that support her personal and mental well-being.

That balance has made a meaningful difference, allowing her to stay focused, motivated, and in control of her learning journey.

Along the way, Alisa has also built strong, supportive relationships with her teachers. She regularly connects with them when she has questions or needs extra support, creating a learning environment where she feels confident and encouraged. “Going through school feels much easier knowing I can get help whenever I need it,” she shared.

Her teachers play a big role in making that experience positive. “My teachers always manage to make every class special and interesting in its own way, making learning engaging no matter what.”

Creative Mode Activated

Beyond building strong time management skills, Alisa has embraced the many opportunities Visions offers to explore her interests. 

Last school year, she partnered with an enrichment vendor for art lessons—an experience that allowed her to grow both creatively and personally. “Not only did I learn a lot, but I also used my school-provided funds to expand my art skills and pursue something I was interested in,” she shared.

At the heart of it all is her love for creativity. “Mostly, my favorite hobbies are those that let me express my creativity,” Alisa said.

Whether it’s drawing, painting, or scrapbooking, Alisa enjoys bringing her ideas to life through art. She also expresses herself through singing, baking, and of course, video games. Outside of her creative pursuits, she stays active and balanced through weightlifting, hiking, traveling with her family, and reading.

Future Loading … 

As Alisa looks ahead to her senior year at Visions, she’s already laying the groundwork for what comes next. Focused and driven, she’s taking advantage of every opportunity to get a head start on her future, including dual enrollment.

“I am slowly completing my general education requirements for community college, and by the end of my high school career, I will have completed about 1-1.5 years of college,” she shared.

After graduation, Alisa plans to finish her general education courses before transferring to a California State University, where she hopes to pursue a degree in Computer Science with a minor in Graphic Design. Along the way, she’s committed to continuing to build her skills and explore new opportunities within the technology field.

When offering advice to other students considering Visions, Alisa highlights two key ingredients for success: time management and asking for support when needed. “Visions has a great team ready and willing to help you succeed!” she said.

She also emphasizes the importance of taking ownership of your learning:

 “Time and workload management is a crucial skill to have and continue to grow—not just in school, but in building a strong work ethic and opening up future opportunities,” Alisa explained. “Visions provides the tools, but you have to use them.”






Visions In Education Welcomes Leaders and Legislators at Our Annual Open House

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Visions In Education Welcomes Leaders and Legislators
at Our Annual Open House

Visions In Education recently welcomed local leaders and legislative representatives to a Community Open House, offering an inside look at the meaningful work happening every day to support students and families. The event highlighted Visions’ dedication to providing a personalized educational experience that meets each student’s unique needs.

Hosted by Superintendent Dr. Steve Olmos and Board of Directors Chairperson Mark Holman, alongside Chief Operations Officer Michael Brubaker, Chief Academic Officer Micah Studer, Chief Strategy Officer Tom Tafoya, Senior Director of Instruction Jennifer Morrison, and members of the Leadership Team, the open house gave attendees a deeper understanding of the diverse student populations Visions serves and the wide range of programs available to help each student thrive. Guests included elected officials, legislative staff, and partners from across the educational community.

The event began with an overview of Visions, as Superintendent Olmos shared insights into who we are, who we serve, and how we support student success. Attendees explored key data points, including student demographics, enrollment trends, support services, and program offerings, providing a comprehensive picture of the Visions experience.

Attendees then took a tour through live virtual classes spanning across Visions programs, including Independent Living Skills, 9th-grade Independent Study English, University Prep Earth Science, Algebra and Algebraic Thinking, a 4th and 5th-grade Reading for Meaning course, Online Middle School Math, and a Home School reading and writing class. 

“We take great pride in continuously personalizing the nonclassroom-based educational experience—meeting students where they are through synchronous instruction, meaningful student activities, and comprehensive support services. As we look ahead, we remain focused on growing stronger each day, striving to get 1% better so we can continue enhancing the experience for our students and families.” – Superintendent Dr. Steve Olmos.








Thank you to Abel Guillen (Deputy Superintendent of Public Instruction–California Department of Education), Kaitlyn Arrington (Consultant–California Department of Education), Jacob Williams (Analyst II–California Department of Education), Harvey Oaxaca (Assistant Superintendent, Educational Services–SJUSD), Art Pimentel (President–Folsom Lake College), Eduardo Ameneyro (Deputy Director–Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance), Tim Lutz (Director– Department of Health Services, County of Sacramento), Megan Reilly (Chief Administrative Officer–Fiscal Crisis and Management Assistance Team), Morri Elliott (Assistant Superintendent – Educational Services, Student Services–Gateway Community Charters), Beatriz Pacheco (Director of Education–United Auburn Indian Community), Johnny Whitmore (United Auburn Indian Community), Brian White (Lobbyist–KP Affairs), and Sal Villaseno (Consultant) for taking the time to join us and learn more about the impact of Visions programs. 

Special thanks to teachers Kit Allen, Ashika Steck, Ken Mewborn, Patrice Boyan, Jessica Wall, Jen Russell, Melissa Meyer, Lindsey Williams, Christine Garrard, and Angela Torres for inviting attendees in to observe student learning in action. We would also like to thank Director of Technology Services Uriel Gonzalez and Student Technology Support Supervisor Nick Veret for their technical support, and Assistant to the Superintendent Betty Brady and Administrative Assistant Georgina Rios for their efforts in coordinating this event.

As a result of this meeting, Visions has already held follow-up meetings with attendees to discuss student support and technology partnership opportunities in more detail. Visions looks forward to future opportunities to showcase the value of Visions and continue this meaningful dialogue.