Empowering Our Multilingual Learners: A Spotlight On The State And Federal Programs Department
The State and Federal Programs Department is a unique area of the organization that oversees a multitude of state and federal initiatives. These include educational programs and grants, and more specifically at Visions, the Multilingual Learner Program, Title I, II, III and IV, tutoring, and our Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP).
Associate Director of State and Federal Programs Jamee Block heads this department, which includes five Instructional Assistants and one ELD Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA), who all provide specific supports to our students, teachers, and families.
“Instructional Assistants play a crucial role in supporting Multilingual Learners (ML) by providing designated English Language Development (ELD) instruction and tutoring support for students in grades 6-12,” explains Jamee. “As all our Instructional Assistants are bilingual, they work closely with our ML Core teachers to support our Newcomer Multilingual Learners through building strong relationships and helping them navigate their educational journey.”
These supports include translation and interpretation services, tutoring, and assisting other departments across the organization in their work with ML students and families. This group collaborates with teachers in all academies to enhance their capacity to serve Multilingual Learners through English Language Development (ELD) strategies, instructional resources, and professional learning opportunities.
“Our team plays a vital role in…ensuring that Multilingual Learners receive the necessary academic, linguistic, and social-emotional support to thrive. We are committed to fostering strong educational partnerships and enhancing services for students.”
Hear from Jamee about this department’s goals, and from the Instructional Assistants directly about how they came into their roles and their service to our students.
Jamee Block – Associate Director of State and Federal Programs
“Our department is committed to continuous improvement through initiatives that enhance support for multilingual learners and their families. One of our key goals is to ensure that multilingual learners and their families feel welcomed and supported at Visions by actively working to remove language barriers. We also prioritize professional learning for instructional staff, equipping them with the tools and strategies needed to effectively implement both designated and integrated English Language Development (ELD). Additionally, we are expanding and diversifying our tutoring supports to ensure students receive the academic assistance they need in ways that best fit their learning needs.”
Francisco Comparan – Instructional Assistant
What is your educational background and/or professional background?
I earned my Associate of Arts degree in Sociology from Cosumnes River College before transferring to California State University San Marcos, where I am currently completing my Bachelor’s degree. I am set to graduate this coming December.
Professionally, I have extensive experience working with students in various educational and behavioral support settings. In San Diego, I worked as a Behavior Technician, providing support to children with behavioral challenges. After moving back to Sacramento, I transitioned into the education field as a Teacher Assistant at a private school specializing in working with students facing behavioral difficulties. In this role, I played a key part in helping students meet graduation requirements or transition successfully back into public school. My diverse experience has given me valuable skills in student engagement, academic support, and behavioral intervention, all of which contribute to my ability to help students succeed.
How do you provide support to our English language learners?
I support our English language learners by teaching English language development (ELD) classes that focus on enhancing their speaking, writing, and overall communication skills. Through structured lessons, interactive activities, and personalized feedback, I help students build confidence and proficiency in English.
In addition to classroom instruction, I assist families of English language learners by providing Spanish translation services during meetings with teachers. This ensures clear communication between families and educators, allowing parents to stay informed and actively engaged in their child’s academic progress.
How does your role help our students succeed?
My role helps students succeed by creating a supportive and inclusive environment where they can build confidence in learning and using a new language. By providing a space where students are surrounded by peers who are also learning English, they feel encouraged to practice without fear of judgment. Through structured activities and meaningful interactions, I help them develop their speaking and writing skills, allowing them to communicate more effectively in academic and real-world settings.
You and Axel will be coaching our co-ed middle school soccer club - what made you want to get involved in this program?
Soccer has played a big role in shaping how I work with others and develop new skills, both on and off the field. I wanted to get involved in this program because I believe the sport is a fantastic way for young athletes to build confidence, form lasting friendships, and stay active in a fun and engaging way. Beyond the physical benefits, soccer teaches teamwork, communication, and perseverance which are all important skills that extend far beyond the game. I’m excited to help foster a positive environment where players can grow, challenge themselves, and enjoy the sport!
Kateryna Kostyuk – Instructional Assistant
What is your educational background and/or professional background?
I have a Bachelor’s in Humanities and Communication from Monterey Bay State University and I’m working on my Master’s in Humanities. Right now I’m taking my last class in the program and I hope to graduate from American Public University in the Spring with my Master’s degree. Very excited to finally have more free time!
When it comes to the professional background, I have been working in a few different fields. I had a chance to work with Middle School Students, College students, and help with the running of noncredit classes at Sierra College Community Education.
How do you provide support to our English language learners?
I offer help to students who speak Russian and Ukrainian. Teachers would often ask me for assistance when they are trying to onboard students because understanding an entire new virtual learning platform in a language that isn’t your home language can be tricky! I’m often present during parent-teacher conferences as well, assisting parents with the language support. In addition to those responsibilities, in the last few months I’ve been working on developing an in-person ELD class for Russian and Ukrainian students who are newcomers to the U.S. and need assistance with learning the English language. This is something that I’m very passionate about because at one point I was struggling with understanding textbooks myself. The class will start on March 5th and I couldn’t be more excited about it!
What made you want to work in an independent study model school like Visions?
I was looking for an alternative to a traditional classroom and I also really wanted to work with upper grades. Visions was able to provide both of these opportunities, so here I am!
You will be participating in our Student Mentorship program - how do you hope to provide additional support to our students outside of your Instructional Assistant role?
I think that mentorship is important at any stage of life, but especially when you are in high school. While I sincerely believe that we all can grow and improve regardless of our age, I think that when the student is in high school it’s especially important to have the right guidance and emotional support. The decisions that high school students make will determine what college they will enroll in, what profession they will choose, and what they will be focusing on in the next 5-10 years. Having someone who can listen to you and give you advice is crucial! I want students to be ambitious, to dream big, and to feel confident in themselves and in the work that they do. My goal is to provide a safe space for students where they can learn and grow, and to give them the support they need to succeed in life.
Deema Musa – Instructional Assistant
What is your educational background and/or professional background?
My educational journey began in Jordan, where I attended school from 1st to 6th grade. After moving to the U.S., I transitioned to homeschooling and enrolled in Visions, which was a great decision. I later earned a Business degree from Sacramento State and have over four years of experience in education. I started as an Arabic teacher at a Sunday School, which helped me connect with the community. I then worked as a tutor at ATC, supporting students across various subjects. Beyond my professional roles, I have been actively involved in volunteering, particularly with refugee enrichment and development organizations.
How do you provide support to our English language learners?
I provide support to English language learners by teaching ELD (English Language Development) classes, where I focus on improving the students’ language skills and building their confidence in communication. In addition to the lessons, I have hosted meetings with English learners to discuss their educational journey and challenges, creating a space where they feel heard and supported. Additionally, I assist with interpreting to ensure that students and their families fully understand school expectations, resources, and opportunities available to them. My goal is to support both students and their families in navigating the educational system while creating a welcoming and inclusive learning environment.
You are a former Visions student - how did your time with Visions impact you, and how does it feel to give back to our community in this role?
My experience as a former student at Visions In Education was significant. Particularly since I was having difficulty in my education as an English learner. By adjusting my education to meet my specific needs, the flexible and supportive learning approach helped with my academic success and personal development. Supporting students and families in my current position is incredibly fulfilling because I was one of them, so I have direct knowledge of the difficulties they have. It feels incredible to be able to return the favor to the community that helped me in the past.
You are also the Muslim Sisterhood Circle Club Advisor - what made you want to take on this additional opportunity?
Taking on the role of the Muslim Sisterhood Circle Club Advisor was a deeply personal decision for me. Reflecting on my own experiences, I recognize the positive impact that a supportive network can have. I would have greatly benefited from a space where I could connect with others who shared similar backgrounds and experiences. This realization inspired me to take on the role of the Muslim Sisterhood Circle Club Advisor. I wanted to create a space where Muslim women could come together, share their experiences, and find strength in our shared identity.
Rima Starovoytov – Instructional Assistant
What is your educational background and/or professional background?
I obtained my degree in Early Childhood Education from American River College, where I cultivated a comprehensive understanding of child development and instructional methodologies. In addition to my academic achievements, I gained practical experience through a part-time role as a teacher assistant, which enhanced my ability to work effectively with young children. Currently, I serve as an Instructional Assistant at Visions, where I provide ongoing support to students and collaborate with educators to foster a positive and enriching learning environment. I am truly grateful for this opportunity, as it has allowed me to identify and pursue my passion for working with children.
How do you provide support to our English language learners?
I support English Language Development (ELD) students in acquiring proficiency in English. This is achieved through daily classroom activities, where students engage with various topics to enhance their language skills. During our meetings, we engage in thoughtful conversations, sharing our perspectives on life and exchanging insights on educational practices and strategies. Besides my work with children, I also assist with interpreting for Russian-speaking families, ensuring effective communication and support.
You are a former Visions student - how did your time with Visions impact you, and how does it feel to give back to our community in this role?
My experience as a former student at Visions In Education was significant. Particularly since I was having difficulty in my education as an English learner. By adjusting my education to meet my specific needs, the flexible and supportive learning approach helped with my academic success and personal development. Supporting students and families in my current position is incredibly fulfilling because I was one of them, so I have direct knowledge of the difficulties they have. It feels incredible to be able to return the favor to the community that helped me in the past.
What is your favorite part about working with our students and families?
My greatest satisfaction in working with children comes from observing their growth and progress in both their academic studies and English language development. It is truly fulfilling to see them arrive each day with enthusiasm and a genuine eagerness to learn.
Axel Funes – Instructional Assistant
What is your educational background and/or professional background?
My educational background consists of K-9th schooling in El Salvador, 9th-12th grades in a very diverse High School in the Bay Area, and finally graduating from a four year college with a Family and Nutrition Sciences BA with a minor in Spanish from Sacramento State University.
As for my professional background, I have worked in different fields that range from manual labor, working with the state, with youth as a mentor and case manager and in school settings such as in Visions and different school districts.
All of my education and work experience allow me to implement different work and teaching techniques whenever I work with Visions staff, students and families. I have worked with youth from a variety of different demographics and backgrounds. This has taught me to change and adapt to different situations as needed to be able to help students the way they will learn the best, depending on their needs.
How do you provide support to our English language learners?
I provide support to our English language learners by providing translation, interpretation and tutoring between English and Spanish. Also, by being an English language learner myself and because I have worked with this demographic of students in the past, it gives me a better insight of how I can approach different learning styles to provide a more productive and successful learning experience for our students.
Why are you passionate about this work?
I am passionate about this type of work and position because I am able to help students who need the help just as much as I needed it when I first came to this country. I feel rewarded and that I am making a big impact when I work with students and families who only speak Spanish because I can see the relief in their faces when they notice they have someone who will assist them in facilitating communication in their own language. Whenever I work with Spanish speaking families I think about my family’s and my own journey in learning a new language in a new country. It reminds me of the times I needed that help and that drives me to do the best I can to make our families feel welcome, seen and heard while they are here at Visions.
You and Francisco will be coaching our co-ed middle school soccer team - how do our sports clubs help our students expand their school experience here at Visions?
Physical activity is always very important to keep a healthy mind and healthy body. By having sport clubs available for the students at Visions it creates an opportunity for them not only to practice physical activities in a more competitive setting but it also allows them to be part of Visions in different ways other than being only students. By being part of a club, it allows students to represent their school and show how great it is to be Visions! It also gives them the opportunity to meet new friends, explore new opportunities, and provides a safe social environment that will encourage more time outside and away from a digital screen.
Sports are also a great way to build skills like self-discipline, team work, communication, coordination, and more. They provide a healthy environment where students can grow and create friendships that will push them to do their best in and outside of the sport.
Brittany Carper – ELD Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA)
What is your educational background and/or professional background?
I have been in education for ten years. I have taught English and social studies at elementary, middle, and high school levels in private and charter schools. I have also worked as a coordinator for Teacher Induction and professional learning and served as an administrator. Much of my work has involved coaching teachers towards California Standards for the Teaching Profession (CSTPs), Universal Design for Learning (UDL), educational technology practices, and literacy practices. I hold a Master’s in Education with a focus on Educational Technology. I am passionate about using technology in the classroom to create new learning opportunities for students.
As an ELD TOSA, how do you provide support to our English language learners?
I am fortunate to work closely with teachers and instructional assistants, especially in supporting our daily ELD classes. We offer 10 synchronous designated ELD instruction classes each day. I develop the curriculum and collaborate with instructional assistants who teach these classes. Additionally, I work with teachers across all academies to support Multilingual Learners by providing professional development, guidance, and resources to enhance language acquisition and academic success.
What is your favorite part about working at Visions?
I love the student-first environment that is present in every part of the organization. One of my core values as an educator is prioritizing students and Visions embodies this in everything it does. The commitment to student success is reflected in the support, resources, and opportunities provided to help every learner thrive. I also appreciate the collaborative culture and strong sense of community among teachers, students, and staff. Working in an environment where educators support one another, share ideas, and continuously strive for improvement makes a meaningful impact on both teaching and learning. Being part of a team that is passionate about student growth and success is truly inspiring.
