Entries by Ronaldo Gomez

Leading the Charge: A Spotlight on the Ordering Services Department

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Leading the Charge: A Spotlight on the Ordering Services Department

Walking by the Ordering Services area, you’ll notice red and pink hearts stuck to the plastic dividers for Valentine’s Day, felt leaves draped around their desks in the fall, and a tree standing tall in the corner at Christmas time. For the Superbowl, they’ll rep their teams. On Halloween, they’ll all be in costume.

Spirits stay high on the Ordering Services team, a reminder that despite the immense amount of work the department is responsible for, there is joy to be had in showing up at Visions, working hard for our staff, and serving our families.

“Ordering Services is a department that is unique to Visions and I love the challenges and opportunities that come with that,” explains Melissa Pytlak, Ordering Services Manager. “Ordering Services reviews and processes orders for curriculum, textbooks, [and] supplies, as well as eVouchers and enrichment reimbursements. We ensure that essential items students need are delivered directly to every Visions student. With over 7,000 students in a nine county area, this is a big challenge!”

But the team is dedicated to facing that challenge every day. Despite some hurdles, Ordering Services has continually met their goals and demonstrated unwavering service to our families, and this commitment can be seen in the department’s impressive numbers and the way that they’ve worked together to find success through those challenges.

“We [have] successfully processed 62,000+ orders since the start of the 2023-24 school year,” says Lora Bachinsky, Student Services Representative I. “Our team has shown incredible resilience, navigating through three leadership transitions and integrating a completely new team while training new members.”

Veronica Kane, Student Services Representative II, adds, “The current OS manager and team members are the best I have ever worked with, not only due to their willingness to work together as a team and have each other’s backs, but also by everyone consistently doing their part to ensure we have…strong team cohesion and a positive attitude while we work together to achieve our department and organization goals.”

Senior Director of Operations Michael Brubaker, who oversees the Ordering Services Department, echoes the team’s sentiments of cohesion, strength and resilience. As their director, he has seen firsthand the impact that the team has had on the organization.

“This past year, the OS team (led by Melissa Pytlak) was able to process the highest number of orders that Visions has ever received. Even during the peak ordering season, with thousands of orders in their queue, the members of the team maintained a positive and friendly attitude, while providing excellent service to families, students and teachers. I appreciate each team member’s willingness to complete whatever tasks are needed, often having to switch from one task to another. This team is a vital part of Visions In Education and without them, we could not accomplish our mission to ‘Prepare each student to succeed in a rapidly changing world’. I would like to thank them for their service to our school and the students that we serve.”

Breaking It Down

Although their overall initiatives are the same, each Student Services Representative has specific responsibilities. Lora, May Guida, and Maleesha Grimes work on the Non-Express side, reviewing and processing orders from our curriculum vendors. Randee Ramirez and Katrina Slofkosky work on the Express side, managing orders from Amazon, Staples, and Rainbow Resource and processing eVouchers and enrichment reimbursements. Julie Yoder, better known as the “OS Ninja”, assists both the Express and Non-Express side. Each SSR is also cross-trained, ensuring that the team can effectively divide up their work and provide the highest level of service to our students and families.

“We are here to support our families and staff in any way we can. Our team is fantastic at making sure students are supplied with the tools and resources students need to help further their education,” says Katrina.

Aside from their larger bodies of work, the team also helps families with book returns, answers parent questions, assists our curriculum vendors, and collaborates with other departments to ensure student needs are met. This includes working with leadership from Instruction and Business Services, and even borrowing staff from other departments during their busy season in the summer.

“The flow of orders is very seasonal, with August and September being our busiest months of the year. During peak season, we essentially double the team size by borrowing four to six additional staff from other departments,” explains Melissa. “This requires planning, training, practice sessions, great written documentation, and good reporting. It also means fostering an environment where questions are welcome and team members help each other.”

From Day 1 to 1% Better

The Ordering Services team has had to withstand numerous changes within their department over the past year-and-a-half, including transitions in management, changes in curriculum partners, updates to ordering processes and more. With sound leadership, a commitment to serving our families, and a dedication to becoming 1% better every day, the team has only become stronger.

“I love that we are all willing to go the [extra] mile to provide service that helps us be 1% better with every effort,” says Maleesha.

“The Ordering Services team has really embraced the 1% better every day motto and each team member demonstrates a growth mindset on a regular basis,” adds Melissa. “Even with the day-to-day operations running smoothly there are still plenty of refinements that can be made. Successful process improvement starts with listening carefully and asking the right questions.”

As alluded to, change begins at the top, and the team credits Melissa for not only creating a space where everyone feels free to grow and succeed, but for leading them to success during times that were busy, uncertain, in flux and everything in between.

“With a great manager, a great team follows. Ours has achieved so much in such a short time because each member embodies the cohesive culture we strive for,” shares Lora. “We support each other wholeheartedly, demonstrating loyalty to both our team and manager.”

As Randee says, “it’s all good vibes” in the Ordering Services Department, and from day one, the team truly has maintained a special bond.

“I enjoy coming to work and spending time with my team. They are my second family!” says Julie.

“From my first day on this team, I have felt very supported because of the kind and helpful people I work with,” May adds. “Each team member values the work they do serving families and is always eager to learn and improve.”

“One of the things I noticed on my very first day was that everyone is happy! Like, genuinely happy working here. In my past workplaces this wasn’t always the case,” says Randee. “It’s a breath of fresh air to be here. I’m happy to be a part of the Visions family.”

About the Team, From the Team!

“The Ordering Services Department has wonderful, caring individuals who are great at their jobs and also know how to keep things fun!” – Julie Y.

“The OS team is such a fun place to be! We keep morale high with baked goods, decking our department out for the holidays, and fun themed dress-up days that really help boost everyone’s spirits.” – May G.

“Our team is so amazing and supportive. It is fantastic navigating through issues that I cannot solve on my own because I know I have a team who’s got my back and helps guide me to where I need to go.” – Katrina S.

“My favorite part of working in OS is working with the ladies in the department. We all bring something unique and are super supportive of each other’s growth. We have a lot of fun collaborating and solving OS matters.” – Maleesha G.

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month 2024

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Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month 2024

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness about the experiences of people living with developmental disabilities. This year’s DDAM theme is “A World of Opportunities” and celebrates the inclusion of all people and the chance for everyone to thrive.

Hear from Visions’ Special Education Community

This year for Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we partnered with Visions’ Champions Club and SPED Art & Social Club to learn more about what the Special Education community and Visions mean to our special needs students and their families.

“It’s the chance to socialize with other kids in the group that have our disabilities,” says Champions Club member Anastacia. For club member Nazha, it’s the chance to see other students in-person, like during their club field trips to the SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity and In-N-Out Burger.

“It [the Champions Club] gives us an opportunity to have our students participate in something,” says Adam Grounds, Champions Club Advisor and SPED Case Manager. “This club is open to everybody, and it allows us to have something a little structured for our students.” 

Whether it’s painting, talking, or just being in the company of other students, both the Champions Club and the Art & Social Club give students a safe space to come together to learn and play. For the families of these students, they are especially appreciative of “an environment that is accepting and safe” and “the opportunity…to be able to engage in social experiences.”

“Having a safe and fun environment for students with disabilities means creating a space where they feel physically and emotionally secure while also having opportunities for enjoyable and meaningful experiences. It involves ensuring accessibility, both in terms of physical accommodations and support for diverse learning needs,” explains Jenn Apgar, Art & Social Club Advisor and Lead SPED Case Manager. “Ultimately, a safe and fun environment for students with disabilities promotes their well-being, empowerment, and sense of belonging within the educational community. I am honored to be able to be a partner in the process.”

“This is why I teach SPED – to be an advocate and a voice for the students who can’t speak for themselves,” says Ken Mewborn, Champions Club Advisor and SPED Case Manager. “I love it. I love the families. It’s service to me.”

Click through the photos below to check out some art work made by our SPED students!





About the Champions Club and SPED Art & Social Club

The Champions Club provides students with an opportunity to engage in activities and discussions designed to help foster awareness of the experiences and issues that impact Students with Special Needs. The SPED Art & Social Club is an opportunity for all students to come together to meet new friends, socialize, try new art mediums, and embrace the freedom of creativity. Students of all abilities are encouraged to join both clubs.

For more information or to join either of these clubs, please visit the Student Clubs Page.

March Is Women’s History Month

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March Is Women’s History Month

Women’s History Month began in 1987 and is a celebration of the contributions of women to society. Throughout the month of March, we honor the many ways that women have shaped our world historically, culturally and beyond.

Did you know that Women’s History Month originated in California? Check out some resources below to find more information about the origins of Women’s History Month and why we celebrate today.

Women’s History Month 2024 – History.com
Women’s History Month – National Women’s History Museum
Women’s History Month – National Geographic Kids

International Women’s Day

Women’s History Month coincides with International Women’s Day on March 8th. This day is celebrated around the globe and calls attention to the many achievements of women – past, present and future. Join us this month as we continue to honor and recognize the impact that women have had on our world today.

Student Spotlight: Marching to the Beat of His Own Drums

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Student Spotlight: Marching to the Beat of His Own Drums

 

On Christmas morning 15 years ago, two-and-a-half year old Brayden C. woke up to see his first set of drums under the tree. A gift from his “mema” and “papa”, Brayden describes immediately feeling “a deep connection to the drums” and the way they made him feel, even at such a young age.

Three years later, Brayden began taking formal drum lessons with ABC Music. At this time, he was also enrolled in Visions’ Home School Academy, remembering himself as an active child who needed something a little different.

“I was already drumming when I started kindergarten and was a very wriggly kid, so we knew a brick and mortar school would not fit,” shares Brayden. “I was already reading when I started kindergarten, so my mom had the creative freedom to create a custom education plan that kept me interested and challenged.”

Over the past twelve years, Visions has allowed Brayden to make music part of his everyday learning. He is still taking drum lessons with teacher Jeff Campitelli, using Visions’ vendor 851 Music Studio, and working closely with his credentialed teacher, Crystal Linnet, to stay on top of his school work and plan for his future. Not being confined to a traditional school day means Brayden can set his own schedule, work at his own pace, and stay inspired to create music at any time of the day.

“Most days I will use the beginning of the day to do part of my school lessons, then I have time to pursue my drumming and music production, and at night time, I get my lessons finished for school,” shares Brayden. “My favorite part about being homeschooled is that I can take my school work anywhere I go, so I can get the real world experience as well as finishing the personalized classes I’ve selected with Visions’ Home School.”

Taking His Show on the Road

Brayden is currently in six bands, playing everything from jazz to progressive rock to metal. One of the reasons Brayden was first enrolled at Visions was due to his family’s love of travel, which Brayden has experienced through touring with his different groups.

“I have performed at the Gilman and The Cornerstone in Berkeley, Cafe Colonial in Sacramento, in Seattle on a tour, in San Diego on a tour, The Phoenix Theater, 6 Flags Discovery Park, in Ukiah, [at the] Sacramento State Fair, in and around San Francisco, and…various places in the Greater Bay area,” says Brayden.

Currently doing dual enrollment at Diablo Valley College to get his associate’s degree in Music Industry Studies, Brayden wants to pursue a career in music, including touring with his current bands and becoming a sound engineer for other groups. Brayden also has his own studio where he records, mixes and masters his bands’ songs, and wants to one day open his own official recording studio.

“With every hit [of the drums] I feel like I’m telling an emotional story and instantly letting go of everyday stress,” explains Brayden. “I would never have had the freedom to play my drums like I have and get to where I am today with my drumming, guitaring, bass playing, recording, college and my busy schedule [without Visions].”

Fun Facts About Brayden:

He started playing on stage when he was eight years old and “caught the bug.”

His longest-running band is Raccoons at the Party. They’ve been playing together for eight years.

He is Pro Tools certified, which makes him more reputable in the recording industry.

Want to hear some of Brayden’s music? Check Out his Instagram, YouTube, and these groups on Spotify: Smilin’ Violet, The Jellyfish Method and Context is King. Stay tuned for more of Brayden’s Music coming soon!

Visions Community Enjoys A Blast From The Past at Living History Event!

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Visions Community Enjoys A Blast From The Past at Living History Event!

Earlier this month, students and families had the opportunity to travel back in time and experience history first-hand at our Black History/Living History event. 

Students were instructed to choose a historical figure who positively contributed to history. Once selected, students worked on project boards with facts, trivia, research and details that surrounded their figures. 

Before in-person meetings were affected by the pandemic, Living History Day was in high demand. Bringing this event to life post-COVID was a goal for Principal Edwina Cirelli, “It was wonderful to have the opportunity to bring it back in person this year, and to combine it with Black History Month.”

Our Black Student Union Club set up a table with free school supplies and drawing activities for attendees to draw inspiration from African American leaders in history. 

As families arrived, they were greeted by costume interpreters and were encouraged to explore all “exhibits”.

Visions hosted two rounds of figures totaling 22 total participants. Students dressed as their figure of choice to represent their project board as our audience of staff, parents and guardians walked around the room stepping on homemade paper plate “buttons”. 

Fashion First










Presenters waited nervously for someone to step on their button before starting a small pre-written script talking about their figures’ lives. Figures spoke about what types of meals were popular during their time periods and what past generations overcame to be successful in their fields. 

“The student presentations were really well developed, giving parent educators as well as students ideas for presentations next year,” Principal Cirelli said, “I learned so much from students, from King Tut to Amelia Earhart, and so many more, as did all who attended.”

As students transitioned from the first group of presenters to the second, attendees were treated with a presentation, “The Spirit to Overcome”. Students were invigorated with highlights including various historical achievements and the many “firsts” achieved by African American women. Students shared their goals and were encouraged by the stories shared of Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman, Bessie Coleman, and many more.

Students used the opportunity afterward to walk to the front of the audience and state their goals for their future professions. Students inspired by the figures and presentations actively used critical thinking skills to discover new and exciting career paths.

For Our Visions Communities

Our passionate Visions staff is committed to providing its students with unique and enriching educational experiences, and the success of this event showcases the dedication of our charter community.

Principal Cirelli added, “The lesson plans created by CT Mica Clements were well used, engaging students not only in historical research but also in practicing their oral speaking standards for all grade levels of English Language Arts.”

“Thanks so much to all the students who worked so hard on their presentations and took this opportunity to share their learning with us all!”, said Cirelli. 

Thank you to all the teachers and staff who had a hand in putting together another wonderful opportunity to learn from one another. For more information on regional events and how you can get involved click here.

Director of Student Services Matt Patterson Appointed to the California Practitioners Advisory Group

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Director of Student Services Matt Patterson Appointed to the California Practitioners Advisory Group

On February 9th, Director of Student Services Matt Patterson was officially sworn into the California Practitioners Advisory Group. This group is overseen by the State Board of Education and selects representatives from all areas of education – Administrators, teachers, parents, school board members and more – to provide input to the SBE in order to make informed decisions regarding policy implementation.

The open position with CPAG was initially proposed by Chief Academic Officer Dr. Micah Studer in the 2022-23 school year. After a statewide search, Matt was one of only four people selected and will represent charter schools as a charter school leader and Administrator.

“Director Patterson’s selection reflects a recognition of his unwavering commitment to excellence and his ability to inspire positive change. With a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the challenges facing our education system, this appointment underscores his leadership prowess and dedication to shaping a brighter future for education,” says Dr. Studer.

Now, Matt has the important job of receiving the information that’s coming down from different programs, organizations and legislators and soliciting feedback from Visions stakeholders to then bring back to the SBE in order to inform their decision-making.

“I’m coming into the CPAG position with the unique lens of our school and our needs as they relate to student outcomes,” says Matt. “I now have the ability to connect with all of our folks, be a listening ear, and bring the voice of Visions and the interests of our students and families to the State Board of Education and the California Department of Education.”

Looking Ahead

Matt will be serving a 3-year term with CPAG and in his position, has committed to doing the on-the-ground work in order to provide feedback on things such as the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP), the California School Dashboard, federal programs and more.

He attended his first official meeting on February 9th (see the recording here – Director Patterson is sworn in at 03:45) and is looking forward to representing Visions and our students during his term.

“One of the things I’m most proud to represent is our foster student population,” says Matt. “I was a foster kid myself, and I firmly believe that where we start doesn’t determine where we end. I am honored to serve in this role to support the continuous improvement of equitable education services for all students.”

February is Career & Technical Education (CTE) Awareness Month

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February is Career & Technical Education (CTE) Awareness Month

February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, a time to celebrate the accomplishments and importance of CTE programs. Career and technical education offers students the ability to gain career skills and explore professions that interest them while still in high school.

By learning about the career options available to them early, students are better equipped to make informed decisions about their future and start building the career they really want. Visions is proud to offer three CTE pathways (Medical Careers, Game & Simulation and our new Cybersecurity pathway beginning Fall of 2024-25) that allow our students to build real-world skills before graduating and connect with valuable work-study opportunities. Check out the flyer below for more info!

Join the Celebration

  • Explore Your Options: Interested in health care? Want to go into the video game or cybersecurity industry? Learn more about Visions In Education’s CTE offerings here!
  • Start a Conversation: Interested in a CTE program but not sure where to start? Talk to your counselor to explore the options that are available to you.

Student Spotlight: How One Aspiring Esthetician is Finding Mentorship in Her Mother

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Student Spotlight: How One Aspiring Esthetician is Finding Mentorship in Her Mother

Fourteen year old Ajayla G. has been doing nails since she was ten. For the past four years, she has been watching her mom, Ericka, find her own path as a cosmetologist. Working side-by-side with her mom has helped Ajayla discover her own passion for cosmetology and esthetics, and she has been able to pursue both as an Independent Study Academy student at Visions.

“I have always loved nails, but never took the time to make them myself. When I came to Visions, that was a good chance for me to learn more about them,” shares Ajayla. “Visions give[s] me the resources I need to fulfill those dreams or goals I have for myself….[and] focus on my learning.”

“I am honored to be Ajayla’s mentor in all her cosmetology dreams,” shares Ericka. “Ajayla is always eager to learn more things. To see how passionate she is at such a young age, I am always amazed.”

Along with nails, Ajayla is passionate about skincare. Documenting her journey on social media and through her Directed Project (a course that allows students the opportunity to explore an interest), Ajayla has been given the opportunity to take an educational approach to one of her passions.

“Having ‘Esthetician’ as one of my Directed Projects allows me to take in knowledge of my skin and share my journey,” Ajayla shares. “I speak a lot about how my skin has progressed. I also speak on products I use [and] skin research.”

Growing Personally and Professionally

Ajayla prefers to work at her own pace, and with hobbies that require time, dedication and creativity, she has found that the flexibility of Visions has truly allowed her to grow as a student and a future esthetician.

“I like to work at my own pace. This gives me the ability to adapt to plans in my personal life. Being in…Independent Study gives me the opportunity to be adaptable and hardworking,” says Ajayla.

Jessica Wall, Ajayla’s credentialed teacher, echoes Ajayla’s sentiment of being hardworking, saying that she is an “overall responsible student.” Ajayla in turn credits Mrs. Wall for guiding her through her schoolwork, her Directed Project and future goals.

“I would like to shout out to my teacher, Jessica Wall. She has been very helpful when it comes to school,” says Ajayla. “Whenever I have a question or a thought, she is always there and ready to listen. Ms. Wall is a very understanding, flexible teacher.”

Nailing It

“I love all nail designs,” says Ajayla. “I love how everyone has different styles. I love simple nails, extra nails, long nails, short nails, etc. I love just about everything about nails and how they can act as an accessory.”

Ajayla would one day love to have her own business, and will continue growing her skills, followers and clientele through social media. With so much determination as a young student and budding professional, Ajayla is sure to design the life of her dreams.

“I appreciate how Visions has been so supportive. Anytime Ajayla needs encouragement, they provide that in abundance,” Ericka says. “I know that if she is this good now, she will be fantastic in the years to come and I will continue to support her on this journey.”


Home School Family Spotlight: Hands-On Learning

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Home School Family Spotlight: Hands-On Learning

When Mercedes S. was six years old, her mom, Sherina, enrolled her at Visions. Having heard good things from friends, and wanting a distraction-free learning environment for both Mercedes and her sister, Lily, Sherina enrolled both girls in our Home School Academy, knowing that her daughters would be receiving a rigorous education while having the flexibility of an at-home learning environment.

“We chose home school because we want our children to learn their academics without distractions,” says Sherina. “Visions has been able to offer our girls the best education and many other extracurricular opportunities.”

For Sherina, the extracurricular opportunities that Visions offers were especially important in her choice of school. With over 600 Enrichment Vendors to choose from, Mercedes found a favorite, Dream Xtreme Gymnastics, which has allowed her to pursue her sport and her education.

“Offering Dream Xtreme as a vendor…mak[es] it possible for me to go to…gymnastics school,” says Mercedes. “I get to see my friends. I also get to do flips and tricks, and I get to compete.”

Practice Makes Perfect

Mercedes is a hard-working student both academically and athletically. Dedicated to perfecting her gymnastics skills, Mercedes has been using the flexibility of Visions and the funds received for vendors to spend her time outside of school working toward her goals with Dream Xtreme.

“I moved up two levels from last season,” says Mercedes. “This season I am motivated to work harder and I am determined to get my back handspring.”

“My daughter has always tested a grade level ahead of the grade that she is in. She is also learning to do her best in everything that she does,” adds Sherina. “She is…doing really great in her Zoom classes in the morning and excelling in her learning skills through these classes.”

Team Spirit

From her own support squad to cheering on her fellow gymnasts, Mercedes knows how to get into the team spirit. At Visions, Mercedes’ teacher, Annmarie Woehler, supports Mercedes through live instruction and in-person check-ins. At gymnastics meets, Mercedes is cheered on by her family and her team.

“I got to compete…and won first place on floor during [the] state championships,” shares Mercedes. “It was exciting. I had a good time, and I cheered on my friends.”

Mercedes likes Visions because “it is fun and…[she] gets to learn new things.” With a quality education and strong spirit leading her forward, Mercedes is sure to shine in her future endeavors.