Have Questions? Get Answers!
What kind of school is Visions?
Visions In Education is a free public charter school that is fully accredited through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Our charter school provides parents and students an alternative to traditional schools. With Visions, a student can choose between our TK-8 Home School, Online Independent Study, or Online University Prep programs.
Is Visions In Education accredited?
Yes. Visions In Education is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Credits earned while attending Visions are transferable to traditional public schools.
How much does it cost?
Visions is a FREE public charter school!
What high school options does Visions offer?
Visions offers two programs for high school students in grades 9-12. Learn more about our Online Independent Study and Online University Prep high school options here.
Where will I meet with my teacher?
Visions teachers will meet with you online or at a mutually agreeable location in your community.
Is there a graduation ceremony?
Yes, there is a traditional graduation ceremony near the end of each school year. The ceremony is held at a location near the center of our service area so that it is convenient for all students.
How many credits does it take to graduate?
Visions In Education requires 220 semester credits to graduate. Students are typically enrolled as full-time students with a load of 30 credits per semester.
If I am behind in credits, can I catch up and graduate with my class?
This will depend on the student’s unique circumstance and personalized educational plan developed with the student’s counselor.
Can I graduate early?
This will depend on the student’s unique circumstance and personalized educational plan developed with the student’s counselor.
Can I get my diploma from Visions if I am older than 18?
Visions In Education does not offer a GED or Adult Education program. For more information, please contact our enrollment team at 1-833-883-1601.
Does Visions In Education issue work permits?
Yes, Visions In Education issues work permits to qualifying students in accordance with the law and ordinances set by the California Labor Board.
What are Learning Assessments?
Learning Assessments provide students with a clear view of where they stand academically and determine what they’re ready to learn next to build their personalized learning plan. Students in grades kindergarten through eighth will participate in the beginning and end of the year using Curriculum Associates (iReady) for reading and math assessments. Students in grades nine through eleven will participate in the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) MAP reading and mathematics assessments. Learning Assessments will be referenced in the student’s Master Agreement and will be administered to all Visions students.
Do you require testing? Where is the testing done?
The California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) program requires that all public schools in California administer standardized tests designated by the California State Board of Education to all students in grades 3 through 8 and grade 11. As a result, all students participate in all applicable tests. Students are typically scheduled to complete these tests at various locations throughout our nine-county service area or online.
How do you serve students with special needs/IEP/504 plan?
We support students with special needs through a variety of programs, including Response to Intervention (RTI), 504 plans, and special education. Response to Intervention (RtI): The Visions In Education RtI team meets weekly to recommend intervention supports for struggling students. 504 Plans: 504 plans protect and support students who have a disability that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Special Education: As a public school, Visions In Education (VIE) provides special education (IEP) and related services (speech, OT, PT, counseling) to students who qualify. The service delivery model at Visions is different than in other educational settings. In our home school model, where the parent is the primary educator, your student will not see a special educator (Resource Facilitator) on a daily basis. Your student’s credentialed teacher and the Special Education Department will always work with you to make progress toward student goals within our independent study program. We look forward to working together as a team to create an IEP that is reasonably calculated to provide educational benefit for your student. Once your student is enrolled, a special education teacher will contact you and an interim Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meeting will be held within 30 days from the start of the school year to ensure that the best possible supports are in place for your student’s success.
Do you have an English Learner (EL) program?
Yes. For English Learners (EL) who can be successful in an independent study program, Visions provides a targeted curriculum, classes and individualized attention.
What is the Online Independent Study High School program?
Online Independent Study students receive 1:1 instruction from credentialed teachers and use an online learning system to complete lessons and turn in assignments. Independent Study students receive a free school issued Chromebook, community college opportunities, and field trips.
Are the classes online?
Independent Study students complete classes and assignments online. Students also meet with their teacher on a regular basis for personalized instruction. Every week students are also provided with additional group classes to provide academic support.
How can my student finish high school at home?
Independent Study students complete classes, classwork, and exams online with their teacher’s support. Teacher meetings are conducted online and in public places (coffee shops, libraries, etc.) but for the most part, students complete school assignments at home.
What if my student dropped out of high school?
Students who dropped out of high school may apply provided they are under the age of nineteen (19) at the time of enrollment. For more information, please contact our enrollment team.
How does online Independent Study work?
Independent Study students complete classes and classwork from a standards-based curriculum through our online system with support from a teacher in their area. Students are responsible for completing assignments weekly on their own time, to meet with their teacher every other week, and to contact the teacher for further support. Counselors meet with students to offer support and to ensure students are on track to graduate.
What are Learning Assessments?
Learning Assessments provide students with a clear view of where they stand academically and determine what they’re ready to learn next to build their personalized learning plan. Students in grades nine through eleven will participate in the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) MAP reading and mathematics assessments. Learning Assessments will be referenced in the student’s Master Agreement and will be administered to all Visions students.
If my student is credit deficient can he make up multiple credits?
Visions offers students multiple credit recovery opportunities, including summer school for those who need it. Students work with their counselor/teacher to come up with a Personalized Learning Plan (PLP) that fits their educational needs and goals.
Can my student take college courses while enrolled in Visions?
Yes! Dual Enrollment allows qualified students to take free community college courses on top of their high school coursework. Students may take core courses, elective or technical education courses. In many instances, we help cover the costs of materials and textbooks for these classes while enrolled. For more information, see our Support Services page.
Can students graduate early?
This will depend on the student’s unique circumstance and personalized educational plan developed with the student’s counselor.
Are Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses available?
Visions In Education partners with community colleges throughout our service area to offer Career Technical Education (CTE) classes. Visions students receive hands-on occupational and technical training in a wide variety of fields, including gaming, medical, and more. For more information, please see our Support Services page.
Can my student work while attending Visions?
Independent Study provides a flexible option for students looking to work and earn their diploma. Students with good attendance and in good academic standing may apply for a work permit through Visions In Education.
Does Visions offer high school dances and other social opportunities?
Visions students enjoy all the social opportunities other high school students have and many more. These include dances, field trips, college tours, study hall, student clubs and extracurricular writing classes. Activities vary by academy, but all students are given opportunities to socialize and make new friends.
Can my student take driver’s education classes?
Yes! Independent Study students can take Driver’s Education using funds from their $1,500 annual budget. Visions In Education utilizes a California DMV approved, internet-based, course. This online course covers the ground rules of road and vehicle safety, with an emphasis on capable and efficient driving.
How do you serve students with special needs/IEP/504 plan?
We support students with special needs through a variety of programs, including Response to Intervention (RTI), 504 plans, and special education. Response to Intervention (RtI): The Visions In Education RtI team meets weekly to recommend intervention supports for struggling students. 504 Plans: 504 plans protect and support students who have a disability that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Special Education: As a public school, Visions In Education (VIE) provides special education (IEP) and related services (speech, OT, PT, counseling) to students who qualify. The service delivery model at Visions is different than in other educational settings. In our home school model, where the parent is the primary educator, your student will not see a special educator (Resource Facilitator) on a daily basis. Your student’s credentialed teacher and the Special Education Department will always work with you to make progress toward student goals within our independent study program. We look forward to working together as a team to create an IEP that is reasonably calculated to provide educational benefit for your student. Once your student is enrolled, a special education teacher will contact you and an interim Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meeting will be held within 30 days from the start of the school year to ensure that the best possible supports are in place for your student’s success.
How can students be successful in the online Independent Study high school program?
Learn about what it takes to succeed at Visions here.
What is the Online University Prep High School program?
Online University Prep students are planning on attending a four year college or university after graduation. Classes are taken online and students can contact content teachers for support by email or phone. Students can also sign up for Zoom through the teacher’s virtual tutoring link. Honors courses are available to help students prepare for college/university. We also offer a high school program for students planning to attend community college or join the workforce after graduation. Click here to learn about our Independent Study program.
My child is college-bound, do you offer Honors courses?
Yes, our online curriculum satisfies college and university admissions requirements. University Prep also offers required labs for Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Spanish Voice Labs are offered through video conferencing.
How can I finish high school at home?
University Prep students complete classes, classwork, and exams online with their teacher’s support. Students meet with teachers in small student group meetings that are conducted virtually and in public places (coffee shops, libraries, etc.) within the students’ communities.
How does online University Prep work?
Students complete their coursework in our online program with the support of their mentor teacher and content teachers. Students complete personalized projects using technology to achieve success in a standards-based curriculum. Core classes are supported by a content teacher who is available to students through email, chat, Google Hangouts, and office hours. The goal of University Prep is to prepare students to meet college admission requirements. All students will be enrolled in classes that meet these requirements.
What are Learning Assessments?
Learning Assessments provide students with a clear view of where they stand academically and determine what they’re ready to learn next to build their personalized learning plan. Students in grades nine through eleven will participate in the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) MAP reading and mathematics assessments. Learning Assessments will be referenced in the student’s Master Agreement and will be administered to all Visions students.
Does Visions offer high school dances and other social opportunities?
Visions students enjoy all the social opportunities other high school students have and many more. These include weekly events, dances, student meeting experiences, student clubs, study hall and extracurricular writing classes. Activities vary by academy, but all students are given opportunities to socialize and make new friends.
Can my student take college courses while enrolled in Visions?
Yes! Dual Enrollment allows qualified students to take free community college courses on top of their high school coursework. Students may take core courses, elective or technical education courses. In many instances, we help cover the costs of materials and textbooks for these classes while enrolled. For more information, see our Support Services page.
Are Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses available?
Visions In Education partners with community colleges throughout our service area to offer Career Technical Education (CTE) classes. Visions students receive hands-on occupational and technical training in a wide variety of fields, including gaming, medical, and more. For more information, please see our Support Services page.
Can my student take driver’s education classes?
Yes! University Prep students can take Driver’s Education using funds from their $1,500 budget. Visions In Education utilizes a California DMV approved, internet-based, course. This online course covers the ground rules of road and vehicle safety, with an emphasis on capable and efficient driving.
Can students graduate early?
This will depend on the student’s unique circumstance and personalized educational plan developed with the student’s counselor. Students must receive approval from their Principal to ensure early graduation.
How can students be successful in the online University Prep high school program?
Learn about what it takes to succeed at Visions here.
Does Visions provide individual student budgets for TK-8 Home School families?
Yes! Students in grades TK-8 are provided $3,000 a year. These individual student budgets are used for curriculum, materials, enrichment vendors and support services.
What is homeschooling?
In Visions’ Home School Academy, parents select curriculum and educate their child in their own homes. Parent educators are assisted by a credentialed teacher that provides curriculum advice and to ensure that California State Standards are being met. Student progress is measured by regular work samples and testing that keep students on track to graduate high school. Learn more about home school here.
What does homeschooling cost? Is it free?
Yes! Visions In Education is a FREE public charter school.
How do I know if homeschooling is for me?
Homeschooling works best for families who want to take a more involved role in their child’s education. Home School families are provided with a budget to select their own curriculum from a variety of vendor options. Parent educators must be willing to provide four to six hours of instruction per day and regularly submit work samples for review.
When can I start homeschooling my child?
Students who have their 5th birthday between September 2 and December 2 are eligible to apply for Transitional Kindergarten (TK). This is a two-year kindergarten program. Students five years and older can be homeschooled at any time the parent chooses.
What are the requirements / credentials to start homeschooling my child?
Parents must be available to teach their students four to six hours a day, five days a week. Parent educators are not required to have any specific certifications as they are assigned a credentialed Visions teacher that provides support and ensures state mandated requirements are met. Parents meet with their Visions teacher once every 20 school days virtually or at a mutually agreed upon location.
What do you need to get started for homeschooling?
Visions provides home school parents with all the tools and support they need to start teaching their child at home; no teaching credential required! Our staff and faculty are committed to supporting parent educators every step of the way, from lesson planning to ordering materials and resources. We also provide funding for conferences if parent educators want to develop their teaching skills even further.
How do home school students stay socially active?
Home School Academy students enjoy a variety of social opportunities and school organized activities. These include weekly events, organized play-days, student clubs, enrichment activities, and more!
What are Learning Assessments?
Learning Assessments provide students with a clear view of where they stand academically and determine what they’re ready to learn next to build their personalized learning plan. Students in grades kindergarten through eighth will participate in the beginning and end of the year assessments using Curriculum Associates (iReady) for reading and math assessments. Learning Assessments will be referenced in the student’s Master Agreement and will be administered to all Visions students.
Do you require testing? Where is the testing done?
The California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) program requires that all public schools in California administer standardized tests designated by the California State Board of Education to all students in grades 3 through 8 and grade 11. We encourage all students to participate in standardized testing. Our goal is to ensure we achieve a 95% participation rate as required by the State of California. Students are typically scheduled to complete these tests at various locations throughout our nine-county service area or online.
How can students and parent educators be successful in the Home School program?
Learn more about what it takes to succeed at Visions here.
Who is eligible to attend Visions In Education?
Do we have to live in a particular school district in order to enroll?
Visions In Education serves students in nine Northern California counties including Amador, Contra Costa, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Sutter and Yolo. We are authorized through a local public school district at the center of our service area.
How old (young) do you have to be to enroll?
Typically students must be at least 5 years old shortly after school begins and under 20; however the requirements can be complicated, so please call us toll-free at 1-833-883-1601 if you or your student is close to either of these cutoffs.
When is the deadline for application?
We accept applications throughout the school year for current and future semesters.
How do I apply?
Click here to start your application today.
Can I apply after the school year has started?
Yes, students are encouraged to apply at any time during the school year.
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© Visions In Education Charter School
5030 El Camino Ave
Carmichael, CA 95608
Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Report A Web Issue| Sitemap | Transcript Request | LCAP
© Visions In Education Charter School
