Entries by Sierra Horton

Celebrating CTE Awareness Month

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Celebrating CTE Awareness Month

Career Technical Education (CTE) programs give high school students hands-on learning experiences in real-world career fields like healthcare, construction, IT, and more! These programs equip students with valuable skills, industry certifications, and even college credits—helping them jumpstart their future while still in school. Whether heading straight into the workforce or continuing their education, CTE empowers students with the confidence and experience they need to succeed.

Visions is proud to offer three distinct CTE pathways, Medical Careers, Game & Simulation and Cybersecurity, that allow our students to build real-world skills before graduating and connect with valuable work-study opportunities.  We are also very excited to be piloting an Artificial Intelligence course and an Introduction to Construction course that includes hands-on in-person learning, VR simulations all led by a credentialed construction teacher.

This February, let’s recognize the power of CTE in shaping bright futures! 🚀 #CTEMonth #SkillsForSuccess

Join the Celebration

  • Explore Your Options: Interested in health care? Want to go into the video game design or cybersecurity industry? Learn Basic Construction skills? Or interact with AI? Learn more about Visions In Education’s CTE offerings here
  • Start a Conversation: Interested in a CTE program but not sure where to start? Talk to your counselor to explore the options that are available to you.
  • Parents, Come to Our CTE Presentation on March 24th, 5:30pm! Hear from our very own CTE Coordinator Keenya Powell about everything Career and Technical Education at Visions! Learn more and sign up on the Community and Family Engagement (CAFE) page on The Wire! 

Resources & Information

Check out these sites for more information 

California Department of Education – CTE, for CTE information!

Advance CTE – CA Career Clusters

California Career Zone

Hands-on learning with Virtual Reality headsets in the Intro to Construction Directed Project course!

Grad Spotlight: A Mother and Daughter’s Full-Circle Visions Journey

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Grad Spotlight: A Mother and Daughter’s Full-Circle Visions Journey

For many families, Visions In Education is more than a school. Visions is a place where paths are reshaped and futures are built. For Sarina S. and her mother, MacKenzie, Visions represents a shared journey that spans across two generations and comes together at graduation in February of 2026.

Finding the Right Fit

Sarina enrolled in Visions’ Independent Study Academy as a sophomore after realizing that a traditional public school setting was not meeting her needs. Health challenges and the fast pace of a conventional classroom made it difficult for her to keep up academically, and she struggled to find success despite her efforts.

At Visions, Sarina found something different: flexibility, understanding, and support. With a personalized learning approach, she was able to work at a pace that made sense for her. This month, Sarina will take the stage at our Fall Graduation Ceremony, celebrating a milestone that once felt out of reach.

From the beginning, Sarina built strong relationships with her counselor and her Special Education teacher who supported her every step of the way. Together, they created a learning plan tailored to her needs and goals. That personalized experience became one of Sarina’s favorite parts of being a Visions student.

Exploring Passions and Building Confidence

Beyond academics, Visions gave Sarina the chance to explore her interests and connect with others. She participated in a student club, completed Directed Projects, and attended Visions events that helped her feel part of a community. Sarina also participated in online and behind the wheel driver’s education through one of Vision’s enrichment vendors. 

Outside of school, Sarina enjoys creative outlets like making art and playing video games, especially Minecraft and Overwatch. She joined the Minecraft Club, where she met a new friend during her sophomore year, and took art classes through an enrichment vendor, allowing her to grow her creativity alongside her academics. That creativity also shows up in her love for Star Wars. She is a self-described fanatic and hopes to one day join the international fan organization “501st,” known for designing and building screen-accurate costumes.

Earlier this year, Sarina attended Visions’ first-ever Senior Sunrise, where she made a new friend and later participated in the College and Career Fair. It was there that she decided she’d like to graduate early to attend American River College, where she hopes to further explore digital art and career paths connected to her passion.

From Visions Student to Visions Parent

As Sarina prepares to graduate, her mom MacKenzie reflects on her own Visions journey. MacKenzie enrolled in Visions as a sophomore in the early 2000s, at a time when she had to grow up quickly but was determined to earn her diploma.

“Visions allowed me to complete my school work while still having an active life,” she shared. One of the most impactful parts of her experience was her relationship with her credentialed teacher, Lonny Gosset.

“I honestly think if I hadn’t had him, I wouldn’t have finished high school,” MacKenzie said. Her teacher met her where she was, supported her through challenges, and helped her cross the finish line.

Now, two decades later, MacKenzie gets to watch her daughter experience that same care and support. “It’s bittersweet. I never thought I would have a child that could go to Visions. Watching her show up and now graduate has been amazing,” she shared.

“[Visions] has been amazing. The Special Education department is wonderful, they helped my daughter tremendously … more than any other school.”

Looking Ahead

This month, Visions looks forward to celebrating with Sarina and MacKenzie during this powerful full-circle moment: both mother and daughter standing as Visions graduates, twenty years apart. Together, their shared experience stands as a testament to how personalized learning and meaningful relationships can help shape not just one student’s future, but an entire family’s story.

“We would also like to thank 3 family members who have supported Sarina through her education journey. My husband’s wonderful mother/Nana Naomi, my husband’s aunt/Sarina’s godmother and an exceptional IEP supporter Victoria, and our fabulous Aunt Shelia for the talks about schools and academics. This was also encouraged and in memory of MacKenzie’s dad/Sarina’s grandpa Eugene Selwyn Tyson. Daddy/Grandpa, Miss Hollywood DID IT!!”

Taking the Stage: A Night of Visions Student Performances

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Taking the Stage: A Night of Visions Student Performances

Celebrating a night dedicated to the arts! On Friday, January 16, Visions students, families, and staff gathered at the Clara Center Auditorium in Sacramento for a vibrant evening celebrating creativity and student talent. The event showcased performances from students across all grade levels, filling the theater with music, storytelling, and joyful expression.

The evening opened with a recorder performance by 3rd-6th grade students who have been working with Home School Academy teacher Erika Baker. Their musical introduction set the tone for the elementary double feature that followed. TK-2nd grade students delighted the audience with a fairy tale mash-up titled Once Upon a Playdate, while 3rd-6th grade performers took the stage next with Once Upon a Mix-Up.

As the evening continued, 7th-12th grade students brought their talents to the spotlight. Middle school performers kicked off the secondary showcase with scenes, monologues, and improv, followed by high school students who delivered their own compelling performances. The night also featured group and solo musical numbers led by Independent Study Academy teacher Katie Elson. Up next, these talented high school performers will take their skills beyond the Visions stage as they participate in the Lenaea Theater Festival on February 6.

A huge thank you to Chad Fisk, Pritika Sharma, Erika Baker, Katie Elson, Nicole Roberts, Crystal Linnet and all Visions families and staff who helped make this memorable evening possible.

Student Spotlight: Forging the Path to Success

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Student Spotlight: Forging the Path to Success

Education is not one-size-fits-all. For many students, the traditional school schedule can make it difficult to thrive. That was the case for Rin W., who enrolled in the Visions Independent Study Academy as a senior after struggling to keep up in a traditional high school setting. By finding a learning pace that worked for her and partnering closely with her teacher, Rin has grown into the successful student she always knew she could be.

“Visions helped me get out of a dark place in my life where I felt I couldn’t show up to school, and my friends weren’t the best influence,” Rin shared. “But since I got out of that environment and joined Visions, life has been so much easier for me. I have made amazing new friends from one of my classes who support and help me make good decisions, and help me with homework sometimes. My grades have been better than ever.”

Support That Makes a Difference

Enrolling at Visions helped re-ignite Rin’s confidence in herself as a learner. With consistent support from her teacher and a new community of encouraging classmates, Rin has maintained perfect attendance and continues to meet her academic goals. Her credentialed teacher, Lisa Rainbolt, praised Rin’s dedication, sharing that “she has worked very hard on her classes.”

Rin has also developed strong time-management skills, a key factor in her success. “What helps me manage my time so well is knowing I can work at my own pace,” she explained. She also credits much of her progress to the strong relationship she has built with her teacher. “My relationship with my teacher is amazing; she is one of the sweetest and my favorite teachers I have had in my whole high school experience. I love knowing that I can text her at any time and she will be there to help me or answer any questions I have, school-wise or just in general.”

Outside of academics, Rin enjoys designing, painting, and working on art projects. Visions has allowed her to balance her schoolwork while still making time to explore her creativity. Looking ahead, Rin hopes to continue her education and is considering a future career as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or firefighter.

“Before Visions, I was a D student at best,” Rin shared. “But now, I have absolutely mind-blowing grades, and I am so grateful to my teachers and counselor for helping me achieve the goals I set for myself when joining Visions.”

Rin’s journey is a powerful reminder that when students are given the right support, flexibility, and encouragement, they can rebuild confidence, rediscover their strengths, and create a path toward a successful future.

Building a Culture of Growth at Visions In Education

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Building a Culture of Growth at Visions In Education

At Visions, we are committed to consistently getting “1% better.” This mindset means we are always reflecting on feedback, data, and our day-to-day practices to find meaningful ways to grow. By making small, intentional improvements over time, we strengthen how we serve our students and support the families who trust us with their children’s education.

Growth is a shared value at Visions, and our staff support one another in becoming better, both individually and as a team. “[Visions] really cares about what their employees feel and that they are supported,” shared Christie Benavides, Business Analyst. This culture of care and collaboration creates a positive foundation for the work we do every day.

Providing the best possible educational experience for students begins with how we work together behind the scenes. Our team is made up of dedicated professionals who believe in continuous improvement and in lifting one another up. “Once you are on board at Visions, you realize, like we all say, it is really good to be Visions,” added Kristin Shumaker, Vendor Support Analyst. This culture of continuous improvement helps ensure students and families experience the high-quality support they deserve, while also empowering staff to learn, grow, and thrive in their roles.

Thank you to the staff and administrators that participated in this video series. We’ll be sharing more videos of our Visionaries so stay tuned!

Student Spotlight: Leading On and Off the Field

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Student Spotlight: Leading On and Off the Field

For Samuel K., a senior in Visions’ Independent Study Academy, finding the right balance in his education was key. When choosing Visions, Samuel was drawn to the ability to set a schedule that works for him, specifically the opportunity to stay involved in clubs, sports, and enrichment activities while managing his academic goals. That balance has helped him thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Building Community & Lifelong Skills 

Samuel has been involved with the Visions soccer club since its inception three years ago, making him one of the program’s most consistent participants. His favorite part of being on the team isn’t just the game itself, but the sense of community it creates. He shared that he enjoys “getting to talk to everyone and share different experiences,” a reflection of how Visions’ extracurricular opportunities bring students together from across programs and grade levels.

Beyond soccer, Samuel has taken advantage of the wide range of experiences Visions offers. He has attended a Visions dance, explored creative hobbies like rug making, and plans to work with an enrichment vendor to learn piano. “Visions allows me to explore different types of sports as well as giving me the opportunity to explore different hobbies such as my rug making that I personally enjoy,” Samuel said.

Samuel pictured back row, fifth from the right

Opportunities like these continue to grow at Visions. Today, students can choose from a wide variety of student activities, including more than 85 clubs, community events, and access to numerous enrichment vendors to explore interests, build new skills, and discover potential career paths. These experiences help students develop lifelong skills such as leadership, teamwork, and confidence – skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

Samuel’s leadership – in every aspect of his Visions journey – has not gone unnoticed. According to Visions soccer club coach Kyle Novak, “Every year, Sam has found ways to contribute as a leader on and off the field. Especially in the last two years, Sam has committed to helping all players on the team feel welcome. He pushes his teammates to higher levels of play, encouraging them to do their best and supporting teammates when they need a lift.”

As Samuel looks toward the future, he is exploring several paths, including higher education in business or law, as well as the possibility of trade school. No matter which direction he chooses, the experiences he’s gained at Visions have helped him build a strong foundation.

When asked what advice he would give to other students, Samuel encouraged them to take full advantage of what Visions has to offer, exploring different careers, hobbies, clubs, and enrichment vendors along the way. His journey is a great example of how Visions empowers students to grow, connect, and discover what they’re passionate about.

Reflecting on Our 25th Year: Visions In Education 2024-25 Annual Report

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Reflecting on Our 25th Year: Visions In Education 2024-25 Annual Report

Visions In Education is proud to release our 2024-25 Annual Report, taking a moment to celebrate and reflect on the hard work and accomplishments of our students and staff during our 25th year of operation.

The 2024-25 school year was filled with progress across our academies and departments. We reached new heights, piloting new programs to better support our students, expanding graduation ceremonies, relocating to a new facility, and engaging in the legislative process more than ever before. This report is a snapshot of the many things that made it Good to Be Visions last school year.

Here at Visions, we are committed to getting 1% Better, each and every day. This means we are constantly reflecting on our past challenges and successes, using data to strategically plan how we might improve in the future. 

Throughout our 25 years, we have made a conscious effort to be intentional and thoughtful as we grow, ensuring each of our students receives the support they need to thrive. On the first day of the 2024-25 school year, we had 7,454 students across our programs, the largest and most diverse group in Visions history at the time. 

Each of our academies made great strides to improve processes and better support our students, refining curriculum to better align with California State Standards and continuing to provide impactful credit recovery opportunities. 

As we work toward our mission of preparing every student to succeed in a rapidly changing world, it is critical that we support students in meeting their grade-level learning standards so that they are ready for life after high school. CAASPP Test Results for the 2024-25 school year showed our students performing on par or higher than the state average. Each year we have witnessed more Visionaries reaching proficiency, and we will remain dedicated to supporting our students in reaching their learning goals. 

Our students are the heartbeat of our school, and we are consistently seeking new ways to provide Visionaries with enriching experiences. Throughout the 2024-25 school year, students had access to hundreds of events, field trips, and other educational opportunities to explore interests and meet new friends in their area. We are also proud to celebrate the partnerships that made many of these additional experiences possible.

“This report is dedicated to the students who choose to learn with our school and the wonderful teachers and staff that make the work we do possible,” Superintendent OImos shared.

We invite you to read the Visions In Education 2024-25 Annual Report below. Use the arrow keys at the bottom of the frame to page forward and back in the report. 


Improving Student Outcomes: Visions Partnership with Lincoln Learning

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Improving Student Outcomes: Visions Partnership with Lincoln Learning

In 2024, Visions partnered with online curriculum provider Lincoln Learning to offer students a high-quality curriculum that is both standards-based and customizable, allowing them to meet grade-level standards at a pace that works best for their individual learning needs.

Through consistent use of the curriculum, paired with intentional planning and collaboration among teachers and staff, Visions is seeing strong results. Students using the Lincoln Learning curriculum are performing at higher levels than their peers on learning assessments.

These assessments measure students’ understanding of California state standards, essential learning benchmarks that support continued academic growth both now and beyond high school. Ensuring access to curriculum that will aid students in becoming proficient in these standards, with the support of their teacher, is a critical component of helping students build a strong foundation for future success.

Lincoln Learning has had a positive impact on student academic growth as measured by our learning assessments by increasing access to grade-level standards in Home School, Online Middle School, and Independent Study for both English Language Arts and Math.

Throughout our partnership, Visions and Lincoln Learning have remained committed to ongoing collaboration and continuous improvement to further strengthen student learning outcomes.

“None of this growth would be possible without the dedicated efforts of our educators, families, and students at Visions, along with the thoughtful partnership Lincoln Learning provides behind the scenes.” – Victoria Soria, Professional Learning & Innovation Manager

We are proud to continue our partnership with Lincoln Learning as we advance our mission of preparing students to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Read more about our partnership with Lincoln Learning here. 

Visions In Education Featured in HopSkipDrive Case Study

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Visions In Education Featured in HopSkipDrive Case Study

At Visions In Education, we are proud to offer a wide variety of student-engagement activities to provide our students with hands-on learning experiences and opportunities to meet others outside of the virtual classroom. 

During the 2024-25 school year, we launched a pilot program with HopSkipDrive designed to remove transportation barriers for our students to attend these events and enrichment activities. With the participation of our staff and families, the pilot program was a major success. To celebrate our partnership, HopSkipDrive featured Visions in a case study!

Read more about this successful collaboration in the HopSkipDrive case study here.

Connecting More Students to Opportunities 

Visions serves 8,000 students in nine counties across Northern California and we found that some of our enrichment opportunities were out of reach for our students that didn’t have access to safe transportation. 

“We needed a service that was more efficient and provided a higher level of safety to give caregivers and students a better option with more peace of mind,” shared Matthew Patterson, Director of Student Services. 

In collaboration with HopSkipDrive, we have been able to connect even more students to the variety of opportunities for student engagement that we provide here at Visions, including student clubs, sports, field trips, regional events, and more.  

“Our families, staff, and community partners made [the] pilot a standout success,” said Dr. Steve Olmos, Visions’ Superintendent. “Their collective dedication ensured that no student was left behind, whether on the court, in the classroom, or at family events. ‘I can’t get a ride’ should never be a reason why a student misses an important opportunity.“

We are proud to partner with organizations like HopSkipDrive to continue removing barriers and provide the best education experience possible for our students and families. Explore case studies from other Visions partners here.

Putting Students First: The Visions In Education Difference

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Putting Students First: The Visions In Education Difference

For over 25 years Visions In Education has continued to grow and evolve, but one thing has never changed: students remain at the center of everything we do. From personalized learning plans to meaningful relationships, Visions is built to support the whole child and each family’s unique educational journey.

“The development of the whole child is really what we do here,” shared Visions teacher Mitch Weathers.

At Visions, students are encouraged to explore their interests, develop passions beyond the virtual classroom, and learn in ways that reflect who they are as individuals. Our teachers and staff work closely with families to support students at a pace that works for them, helping them balance academics with enrichment, community involvement, and personal growth.

Through engaging regional events, strong partnerships with community organizations, and diverse enrichment opportunities, Visions provides a well-rounded educational experience rooted in connection and choice.

“It’s all about the [students], their learning, their experiences, and helping them become lifelong learners,” added teacher Erika Baker. Together, our staff and families continue to create a learning environment where students can thrive.

Thank you to the staff and administrators that participated in this video series. We’ll be sharing more videos of our Visionaries so stay tuned on viedu.org!