Visions has been providing distance learning programs for over 20 years. Visions is one of the most stable nonclassroom-based charter schools in California serving over 7,000 students in Sacramento County and the eight surrounding counties. We offer TK-12 Home School and two high school options, Independent Study and University Prep. Watch this video to learn more about our school.
Consistent Student Engagement During COVID-19
In March, Visions decided to briefly “close” the school to address impacts of COVID-19 and give allowances to students that may be negatively affected by the pandemic. After creating a plan, teachers began engaging with families virtually and students continued their studies. During this time, 96% of our students continued to be engaged in their learning. Our education model made it easy for teachers, staff and students to adapt. Our systems also allowed us to continue offering extra benefits to our students virtually including online field trips, group meetings, one-on-one teacher meetings, tutoring, writing and math classes.
Increased Demand
Over the past summer, Visions enrolled over 2,100 new students across our three academies for the 2020/21 school year. The number of enrollment inquiries and applications skyrocketed, and our summertime waitlist for fall enrollment approached 2,000 students. We usually have a Home School waitlist but historically we’ve been able to enroll most of the students that apply for Independent Study and University Prep. This year was the first time in our school’s history that we had waitlists for all three programs. It’s clear that the need for nonclassroom-based distance learning schools, like Visions, has increased due to the pandemic.
Read our success stories here to see how Visions’ flexible programs help students thrive.
Technology and Connectivity
Visions is proud to provide access to technology, MiFi internet devices, laptops and more to our families. Approximately 50% of our student body is “unduplicated” which includes low income, foster youth and English Learners. In our Independent Study and University Prep programs students are given a free Chromebook to complete their work in SchoolsPLP, our robust online learning management system. With these services, access to learning is possible for students when otherwise access is a barrier. Our technology team has also created a custom online system that allows families to easily order curriculum, register for enrichment services and much more. Being able to offer these support services makes distance learning possible for our students.
About Visions In Education
Visions is a free WASC-accredited public charter school that serves TK-12 students in Amador, Contra Costa, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Sutter and Yolo counties. Established in 1999, Visions offers flexible and personalized educational programs in their Independent Study, University Prep and Home School academies. Learn more at viedu.org and connect with Visions on Facebook.
This article was contributed to a California Charter Schools Association email newsletter.