At Visions In Education, students are empowered to learn at their own pace while diving deep into the passions that make them who they are. For students like Home School 8th grader Fiori A., this is key.
Fiori enrolled at Visions in 6th grade to access a curriculum and support system that would help her meet her learning goals, especially in math, after she had fallen behind at her previous school. Working at her own pace, met with the right curriculum and support from her teacher, has made all the difference for Fiori. When asked about her relationship with her teacher, she shared, “[Ms. Allen has] been one of the best parts about Visions for me. She always lets me express myself, share my thoughts and schoolwork, always making sure I’m on the right path.”
Being a student at Visions has allowed Fiori to make progress academically while pursuing her passions. “Visions gives me time during the day to practice my creative interests while still staying on track academically, which makes school feel more personalized and enjoyable for me,” Fiori shared
Fiori is especially passionate about dance. She has been training since the age of 9, steadily strengthening her technique, confidence, and discipline. Her commitment has led to remarkable opportunities, including five consecutive summers at the prestigious Debbie Allen Dance Academy Summer Intensives.
That training opened the door to a milestone she describes as “a dream come true”: auditioning for Debbie Allen’s Hot Chocolate Nutcracker. “[Finding] out Mrs. Debbie Allen herself wanted me in her award-winning production was the best news I have ever received,” Fiori recalled. She was cast in an impressive four roles, an achievement that reflects both her talent and tireless work. This month, she continues to grow as a performer while rehearsing for The Nutcracker Bird with the Berkeley Ballet Theater.
Fiori’s creativity doesn’t stop at dance. She has also been sewing for five years, and last summer, she brought her skills to the runway when she designed, created, and modeled her first three-piece suit in a fashion show. In addition to dance and design, she loves to sing and act, and plans to keep developing each craft with hopes of one day building a career in the performing arts. With her determination and hard work, she is sure to be successful. “She is dynamic, respectful, organized, creative, and accomplishes her goals,” shared Ms. Allen, Fiori’s teacher.
Since enrolling with Visions, she has also strengthened her writing skills. She has enjoyed writing since she was young, explaining, “What I enjoy about writing is how it lets me express my ideas and thoughts into a story.” Through expanded curriculum options and elective courses at Visions, Fiori has had the opportunity to explore new writing styles and expand her horizons as a writer. She’s also had increased support from her teacher, receiving personalized feedback that has helped her grow even more. “From my very first year at Visions, Ms. Allen has given me feedback on my writing which not only supports my creativeness but also strengthens my technical writing abilities,” she shared.
Fiori has made impressive progress in her academic and personal goals since enrolling with Visions, including overcoming her struggle with test anxiety. When she used to take a test, she explained that she faced a racing heart and fear that would bring her to tears. Now, she can take tests calmly and confidently. When explaining what helped her overcome this fear, she shared, “What helped me get to this point is Visions and having supporters like Ms. Allen, my mom, and other teachers I have met in Zoom classes. They have helped me overcome my test anxiety and realize I can do anything I set my mind to.”
When asked what she would share with a student considering Visions, Fiori shared, “If you’re coming to Visions, be prepared to have the best years of schooling ever, and to meet amazing new people. Always remember to work hard and do your best. Your teachers at Visions will always have your back.”
