Visions Students Define Success Through Mentorship Workshop
On February 10th, Visions In Education brought together students and staff for an empowering “LifeWork Experience: Student Activation Workshop” at Visions In Education’s main office. Facilitated by Armoni Easley of Easley Done & Co., a leadership and development coordinator specializing in helping individuals discover their strengths and build essential life skills, the workshop exceeded all expectations from participants.
Twenty students arrived anticipating they would learn the fundamentals of being effective mentees. Instead, they left with something far more valuable: the confidence and tools to become peer mentors within their own communities.
Staff members came prepared to invest in their students but found themselves on an equally transformative journey – gaining fresh insights into both themselves and the students they serve daily.
“I had a great experience at the event, bonding and relating to the students. It was evident that these students were hungry for growth and connection. They were very welcoming, energetic and open to mentorship, which makes me want to show up for them even more. I think these events matter for Visions students because it lets them know that there's a community of adults who want to support them and guide them in their journey. I chose to become a mentor to make a positive impact on the youth and because I don't get to interact with the younger generation very often. They are an inspired bunch, full of life and they spark life into us.”
Building Connections Through Conversation
The workshop created an environment where authentic connection could flourish. Participants engaged in thoughtfully designed icebreaker activities, dynamic communication exercises, and organic conversations that laid the groundwork for meaningful dialogue about personal and professional growth.
The highlight of the day was a roundtable mentoring session where students asked thoughtful questions to rotating staff mentors. The questions revealed the depth of students’ reflections on their own journeys:
- How did you navigate high school?
- What do you wish you had known during your high school years?
- What advice would you give to your younger self?
These comfortable conversations allowed students to gather diverse perspectives and real-world wisdom from those who have walked similar paths.
Future Events
This February session marks just the beginning of an ongoing mentorship initiative. Students and staff will reconvene in March for the second installment of this valuable series. Stay informed about upcoming events by monitoring LPAD and The Wire for announcements.
Thank you Staff Mentors & Event Organizers
Visions In Education extends heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated classified staff mentors who generously shared their time, experience, and perspectives: Spencer Summerhays, Silvia Covarrubias, Jennifer Irish, Keely Adams, Ronaldo Gomez, and Georgina Rios.
Special thanks to our event organizers for gathering supplies, creating the event, and organizing a delicious catered lunch for all our participants: Administrative Assistant, Lindsey Nance, Director of Student Services, Mathew Patterson, Associate Director of Equity & Student Engagement, Ron Thomas, and Rachel Ou of LifeWork.
Through collaboration, vulnerability, and shared commitment to student success, we’re building more than skills; we’re building a stronger, more connected community.