Interactive Periodic Table

Are you studying the Periodic Table? Does it seem a little overwhelming and hard to follow?

If so, check this out: http://elements.wlonk.com/ElementsTable.htm

It is an interactive periodic table with pictures and words that is fun for adults and super kid friendly.

Do you know of other great educational resources to share? Email me and I'll post them on the Blog.

This Week's Meeting Schedule

This is one of those LPs with four school weeks, so there are no regularly scheduled family meetings. I will be doing paperwork, scheduling make-up meetings and attending other school meetings, but am available for help, or extra meetings, if needed.

Monday 11/14
Office Day

Tuesday
Camino
Alex M. - 1:00

Wednesday
Office Day

Thursday

Office Day

Friday

Office Day

Enrichment Activities Flyer

Visions has created a new flyer with information about Enrichment Activities.

Gingerbread House Event

From Traci Muldery...

Hi Everyone,

It's that event that everyone loves - the Gingerbread House Event, coming on December 7. This is the time when students enjoy creating their own decorative touches to their Gingerbread Houses. Parents even get involved in the decorating.  We supply everything, houses, icing, candy, extra candy...and we take care of the mess.

To enroll in this event is easy.  Just go on Launchpad --->orders---> New order (bottom or order page)--->More ordering options---> check VIE Activities/ Classes----> New screen will appear.  Go to the last box under event and put in Event # 22068.  The event should appear.  Click the green button on the left, enrolling your child, and the hit finished at the bottom of the page.

FAQ's: 

My funding is low, can I still participate?
Yes, Visions events are okay, and are not denied because of the funding guidelines regarding use of funding after purchasing curriculum.

What happens if it snows that day or my child is ill that day, and I can't get to the event ?
We  will definitely miss you at the event, but will have your child's house ready so that you can pick up at a later time.

Can my family enroll after the cut-off date of Nov. 15?
I believe we will extend the date, just go ahead and try enrolling or call or text me at 209-217-6538 if you have problems enrolling.    The reason for the cut-off date prior to the event is that it gives time to plan on getting the houses and having them ready for our students.

Is there an age limit?
No, any students enrolled in Visions can participate in grades K-12.  In the past, many of our high schoolers have enjoyed this event as much as our younger children-  and some are already enrolled for this year's event.

What is the Talent Show?
Following the Gingerbread House Event, we will do a little seasonal celebrating with cookies and refreshments.  Students that would like to perform will be given a chance to do a little entertaining.  In the past, students have done such things as playing an instrument, singing, doing dance routines, magic tricks, telling jokes, karate moves, etc. You do not need to enroll for the talent show, just show up around 11:30 or plan on staying if you attended the Gingerbread House Event.

If you have questions, feel free to contact your CT or email me at tmuldery @viedu.org. or call or text me at  209-217-6538.

Hope to see you there!  Traci Muldery

Link to Flyer

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 11/7
Office Day

Tuesday
Jackson - Starbucks
Emily - 11:00

Wednesday
Ione
Zora - 11:00
Lilly - 12:05
Hunter - 1:30
Charles - 2:35

Thursday

Jackson - Burger King
Billy - 11:20 *
Jackson Library
Emma - 12:30
Connnor - 1:30
Grace B. - 2:30

Friday
Office Day

New K-5 Report Cards

K-5 Standards Based Report Cards were updated this year. To get an advance look, click here. (Make sure you are signed in to Launchpad first.)

Directly off the Wire...
Explanation of 1 - 4 Proficiency Marks
CTs must review the 1-4 marks used at the elementary level in ongoing discussion with parent educators. CTs must explain to parent educators that the marks indicate the level of progress toward mastery, not simply the completion of an activity or two that address a particular standard. Students could be doing well with their daily work and still be at the 1 or 2 level in their progress toward mastery. It is a general expectation that students will receive mostly 1s and 2s at the end of the first semester. A level of 3 would be appropriate at the end of the school year. The 4 rating should be reserved for students working beyond their grade level in a specific content area as opposed to students doing very well on grade-level subject matter.

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 10/31
CT Professional Development Meeting

Tuesday
Ione
Joshua - 11:00
Alexis & Tyler - 12:05
Gage - 2:30

Wednesday
Jackson Library
Isabeau & McKenna - 11:00
Wyatt - 1:30
Emily - 2:30
Lucas - 3:30

Thursday
Ione (Clark's)
Jezreel - 12:00
Jaye - 1:10
Plymouth
David - 3:30

Friday
Office Day

Voucher Ordering Reminders

From the Wire...

In order to get your voucher orders processed as quickly as possible, please remember the following:

• Enter your voucher order into Launchpad at least 5 business days prior to the start of the services. This will allow sufficient time for your CT to review and approve them, as well as give the Resource Center staff time to process the vouchers prior to the start of services. No services that are being paid with Visions funds can be provided prior to the voucher being in the vendor’s hands.
• Vouchers submitted less than 5 business days prior to the start of services may not be able to be processed in time and therefore charges for services will have to be paid for by parents out of their own pocket, rather than utilizing your student’s Visions funds.
• Budget transfers are a great way to move funds between sibling accounts, so that you can have additional funds for vouchers. Families can start submitting budget transfers now to make funds available. Budget transfers will be processed in the month of November.

Also, remember that you may use 50% of your funds (after ordering your curriculum) for vouchers this semester. You will need to save 50% of your funds for next semester.

Book Fair and Picture Day

From the Wire...

Bookaneer Book Fair: Where Books are the Treasures
Ahoy mateys! We invite you to join us at our nautical book fair at our Carmichael Resource Center (5030 El Camino Ave). The fair is open to ALL Visions students.

December 5-9

Monday-Thursday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Student Fund Purchases
Purchases may be made with available Visions student funds up to $50.00, including tax, at the Bookaneer Book Fair.

Student Picture Day
Lifetouch Photography will be available for student pictures on December 8. Photo hours are 9 a.m. to noon and 12:30 to 4 p.m.

To pay with a credit card please purchase picture packages online and bring a printed receipt to picture day. Visit www.mylifetouch.com for more info. Photo packages may also be purchased the day of the photo shoot by cash or check. More information will be available as the date gets closer.

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 10/24
Office Day

Tuesday
Ione
Joseph - 11:00
Tiffany & Madison - 12:10

Wednesday
Ione
Grace - 11:00
Bonnie - 12:10
Charlotte - 1:30
Khloe & Sadie - 2:35

Thursday
Ione
Justin - 10:30
Leila - 12:10
Jasmine & Roxie - 1:30

Friday
Somerset
Yarrow - 10:00

Harvest Festival - This Friday!

Friday, October 21, 2016 - 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

First Baptist Church - Fair Oaks, 4401 San Juan Ave.; Fair Oaks, CA 95628

Bring the family and enjoy Visions annual Home School Harvest Festival. 

Enjoy games, win prizes and participate in fun activities including Scavenger Hunt, Fishing Booth, Face Painting, Cake Walk, Crafts and more.  This is a no fee event.                          

Food and snacks will be provided.

(Turkey and vegetarian hot dogs, chips, popcorn, cotton candy and water.)

Register through the flyer.

Print your Field Trip Permission Form here.

Washington DC Trip

From the Wire...

Visions is excited to offer 8th-9th grade Home School students a unique opportunity to experience our nation’s Capital in October 2017.

This cross-country field trip to Washington DC will be chaperoned by Visions CTs. Leaving Northern California by plane, the group will spend five days and four nights touring sites such as:

• The National Air and Space Museum
• The Lincoln Memorial
• The Vietnam War Memorial
• Ford’s Theater (Site of President Lincoln’s Assassination)
• Mt. Vernon (Home of George and Martha Washington)
• The National Museum of American History
• The US Capitol Building
• The National Museum of Natural History
• Arlington National Cemetery
• The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
• The Library of Congress

At this time, we are only accepting Home School students who will be in 8th or 9th grade in the Fall of 2017.

We have chosen a fall itinerary to minimize costs and crowds.

Students who are interested should sign up ASAP on the interest list (linked in the flyer below). By signing up, you are not obligated to participate, but this will give us a clearer idea of numbers and help to solidify costs. Commitments will be made when contracts (made directly with Adventures America) are signed and first payments are made. Students will be sleeping 4 to a room, grouped by gender, and will have a packed schedule. Parents are not able to attend as the program is only open to students and Visions CT chaperones.

Although we cannot utilize student funds for this trip, there is a payment plan that will be outlined at an informational meeting to be held at the Visions office on Nov. 7. For more, please read the Visions In Education Washington DC Trip flyer.

Questions? Contact CT Steve Huck at shuck@viedu.org.

Sutter's Fort Environmental Living Program

Copied from the Wire...

Give your student an overnight experience they won’t forget as they spend 24 hours portraying characters of 1840s California and partaking in various trade activities and entertainment. Taking place at Sutter’s Fort in Sacramento on February 23-24, the event is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself and your student(s) in the era that defines California history.

Sutter’s Fort is open to K-8 students, who, to fully capture the Gold Rush experience, will come dressed in their own period clothing. One parent per family is required to attend with the student and to work a station assigned by the group coordinator.

The cost to participate is $140, payable with student funds. There is also an opportunity for 9-12th grade Home School students to attend as an apprentice who works at a station. The cost to apprentice is $80, also payable with student funds.

Registration is now open! To sign up and learn more, visit the Sutter Fort program event page on the Wire.

This Week's Meeting Schedule

This is one of those LPs with four school weeks, so there are no "regular" scheduled meetings. I will be working on everyone's work samples this week, but am available for help, or extra meetings, if needed.

Monday 10/17
Office Day

Tuesday
Office Day

Wednesday
Ione - Clark's Corner
Jaye - 11:00
Wyatt - 12:00
Emily - 1:00
Lucas - 2:00

Thursday

Office Day

Friday

Harvest Festival

Upcoming & Notable

Add/Drop Deadline (High School)
Friday, October 21st.

Harvest Festival (New Location!)
Friday, October 21st. More info here.

Spelling Bee 
Open for enrollment. More info here.

Semester 1 Official Work Samples - Reminder
I will be collecting official semester 1 work samples at our LP2 meeting. These work samples can be from anytime during LP1 or LP2. Please be sure to provide:

• one sample for each assigned subject
• samples that match the assignments, lessons, unit numbers and/or learning units on your semester plan for either LP1 or LP2
• samples on 8 1/2 x 11 paper, free of staples and rough edges (Imagine that Visions has to file 5,000 of these work sample packets! The tidier I can compile them, the better.)
• samples that are graded and/or commented on by parent
• samples that reflect student work (multiple choice assignments and tests are not accepted by the school)

Student Budget Transfers
Budget transfers will be accepted during the month of November (either by email, fax or mail) and they will be processed as they are received. All transfers will be completed by early December so that families may have funds in place for Spring Semester ordering. More info and forms here.

Every Kid in a Park Program

From the Wire...

Hey 4th graders! This one’s for you (and your family).

In an initiative to protect our nation’s unique landscapes and to ensure that every American has the opportunity to enjoy them, the US Government is once again enacting the Every Kid in a Park Program in which 4th grade students and their families are granted free admission to National Parks and other federal lands and waters through August 2017.

In its second year, Every Kid in a Park is an easy-to-sign-up program that issues a printable pass to 4th grade students, good for all kids in the group under the age of 16 and three adults (up to the capacity of a passenger car).

The pass gives families access to literally hundreds of parks throughout the nation. The program even offers some handy planning tools to make the most of your trips (or for alternate travel ideas, check out the National Park Foundation’s downloadable guides.)

Some of California’s own parks include Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon, Redwood National Park, Muir Woods, Joshua Tree, Channel Islands, and so many more.

4th graders were selected due to their growing curiosity about the world and lasting impact of making America’s varied, stunning, and vast outdoor spaces a student’s living classroom. The program was also started due to the recognition that more than 80 percent of American families live in urban areas and, according to a study by the Kaiser Family Foundation, American youth spend an average of 7+ hours per day on electronics.

With outdoor access easier than ever, it’s time get outside and experience the awe of our unique lands and national monuments!

Please note that a printed pass is required for entry (no electronic copies) and that, since some parks are privately owned, it is recommended to call individual parks prior to visiting.

For more information, visit everykidinapark.gov.

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 10/10
Office Day

Tuesday
Somerset
Yarrow - 1:00
Pollock Pines
Alex - 2:30

Wednesday
Ione
Grace B. - 11:00
Lilly - 12:05
Hunter - 1:30
Charles - 2:35

Thursday

Jackson Library
Zora - 10:30
Billy - 11:30
Emma - 12:30
Connnor - 1:30

Friday
Office Day

Teaching Resources

Our coach shared these great teaching resources at our Group CT meeting today:

Better Lesson 
http://betterlesson.com/common_core

3 Acts Lessons
https://gfletchy.com/3-act-lessons/

3 Act Math
http://wmh3acts.weebly.com/3-act-math.html

Robert Kaplinsky
http://robertkaplinsky.com/lessons/

Teaching Channel Videos
https://www.teachingchannel.org/videos?default=1

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 10/3
CT Small Group Meeting

Tuesday
Ione
Joshua - 11:00
Alexis & Tyler - 12:05
Gage - 2:30

Wednesday
Jackson
Isabeau & McKenna - 11:00
Wyatt - 1:30
Emily - 2:30

Thursday
Somerset
Jezreel - 11:00
Ione
Jasmine & Roxie - 1:00
Plymouth
David - 3:30

Friday
Office Day

Mystery Science

Homeschooling tip from Heather...

Open-and-go lessons that inspire kids to love science.

Are you looking for engaging, hands-on, low prep, standards aligned science lessons for grades K-5?

Check out Mystery Science.

"Free memberships are available to new teachers at schools that have not tried Mystery Science and new homeschool parents. Those who already received a free membership are not eligible."

Thanks Heather! 

Do you have something to share with other home schooling parents? Great curriculum, a super resource, a wonderful vendor? Send me an email and I'll share it on the Blog.

Supplemental Student Home Survey - Repost

This summer, Visions mailed out a letter and a Supplemental Student Home Survey.

If you have mailed it back already, thank you! However, many of you have not had the chance yet. If you haven't, please mail it in as soon as possible (or I'd be happy to pick them up at our next meeting).

I understand that they can seem invasive, but Visions relies on these surveys to help provide funding for some of the services we provide. 

"We need to collect all forms by no later than October 10th so that we can record them and submit our numbers to the state in time." - Visions Admin Team

Here is a copy of the letter Visions sent out.
Here is a copy of the Survey.

Thank you for your help!

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 9/26
Office Day
Available for questions and support

Tuesday
Ione
Joseph - 11:00
Jaye - 12:05
Tiffany & Madison - 1:30

Wednesday
Ione
Grace - 11:00
Bonnie - 12:05
Charlotte - 1:30
Khloe & Sadie - 2:30

Thursday
Ione
Justin - 11:00
Leila - 12:05
Jasmine & Roxie - 1:30

Friday
Office Day

Upcoming and Notable...

Credit Returns Deadline

September 23 is the deadline to return items for credit.  Only items ordered from MBS Direct (all items) and TextbookX (only supported curriculum, excluding warehouse and marketplace purchases) are eligible.  Items must be returned to the Carmichael Resource Center by 4:30 p.m.

Spelling Bee
Enrollment is now open for the Visions school-wide Spelling Bee! More information on the Spelling Bee event page.

End of LP1
Friday 9/23.

Semester Plans
Please try to get your semester plans completed by Friday.* If you can't finish the whole semester, please at least fill out LP2 so I can put your assignments into Launchpad. Thank you!
*If you are still awaiting curriculum, I understand that this will be a serious challenge! Just do what you can and fill in as your curriculum arrives. 

Semester 1 Official Work Samples
I will be collecting official semester 1 work samples at our LP2 meeting. These work samples can be from anytime during LP1 or LP2. Please be sure to provide:

• one sample for each assigned subject
• samples that match the assignments, lessons, unit numbers and/or learning units on your semester plan for either LP1 or LP2
• samples on 8 1/2 x 11 paper, free of staples and rough edges (Imagine that Visions has to file 5,000 of these work sample packets! The tidier I can compile them, the better.)
• samples that are graded and/or commented on by parent
• samples that reflect student work (multiple choice assignments and tests are not accepted by the school)

Thank you, and let me know if have any questions or need any help.

Tutoring in Jackson!

Finally, it looks like Visions will be offering drop in tutoring in Jackson! I know the school tried to implement this last year and struggled to find a qualified tutor. I just heard that one will be starting on Wednesday.

Grace Fellowship
8040 CA-49, Jackson, CA
Weds: 9:00-3:00

Here is the link to Visions' Tutoring Flyer.
Here is the link to Visions' Tutoring Centers Rules and Policies.

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 9/19
Office Day

Tuesday
Pollock Pines
Alex - 11:00
Somerset
Yarrow - 1:00

Wednesday
Office Day

Thursday
Office Day

Friday
Office Day

Visions in Education Writing Program*

 *For Middle & High School Students only at this time, with the exception of the Walk For Literacy field trip that is open to all ages.

The Visions In Education Writing Program is growing! In addition to its popular Find Your Voice writing classes, Visions also offers Writing Based Field Trips as well as introductory One Day Workshops to expose students to the writing methods of our classes.

Whether taking a semester-long class, a one day workshop, or attending a field trip, each experience is designed to enrich our students’ education
by offering writing instruction in an environment in which students are safe to explore. Students will discover their own unique and powerful voice and learn that writing can be fun and enjoyable.

There are no out-of-pocket expenses for participating in any of the Visions Writing Program experiences. Students will be charged from their student accounts.

The Find Your Voice Writing Class is done in partnership with 916 Ink. Each class culminates in the publication of a book of students’ work. Students participating in the classes will receive two copies of the book and a t-shirt.

View the flyer with class locations and schedules here.

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 9/12
Office Day

Tuesday
Ione
Joshua - 11:00
Alexis & Tyler - 12:05
Gage - 2:30

Wednesday
Ione
Zora - 11:00
Lilly - 12:05
Hunter - 1:30
Charles - 2:35

Thursday
Jackson
Billy - 11:30
Emma - 12:30
Connor - 1:30

Friday
Office Day

FAME Schedule

(Courtesy of Tracy Muldery)

Join us at the Amador Center (Grace Fellowship – 8040 S. Hwy 49, Jackson, 95642) for fun and informative sessions about music and art. This event is open to grades K - 8+ (we do have high school students helping, so all ages are welcome!) Each FAME session includes a lesson about an artist and a musician, which will be followed by a hands-on art lesson with materials provided for each student. This is a relaxed atmosphere where students and parents can come together to meet other families. Kirstin Leggett will be sharing her talents with us for this event.

Class Time: 9:30 - 10:45
Cost for four classes: $20 – Enroll in Launchpad Event ID# 21232 (Enrollment is open)

Each lesson consists of:

• Introductory segment (skit, presentation, etc.) 
• Information about a selected composer and artist of same genre, timeline 
• References to elements of art (line, texture, composition, etc.) 
• Large reproductions of featured art, featured music, pictures of artist/composer 
• Individual student art projects emphasizing the same featured concepts 

Semester 1 Class Dates: 
Class #1 – October 5:
(FAME III) (Rembrandt van Rijn) and Les Toreadores (Geroges Bizet)
Lunch provided (open to all students.)

Class#2 – November 2:
(FAME IV) My Gems (William Harnett) and To A Wild Rose (Edward MacDowell)
**December 7: Additional Fee - $15.00 - **Please enroll in Launchpad - Event ID # 21233 

• Gingerbread Houses from 9:30 – 11:30 
• Party & Talent Event following at 11:30 
• Refreshments provided 

Semester 2 Class Dates: 
Class #3 – April 5:
(FAME IV) (Auguste Renoir) and The Blue Danube (Johann Strauss, Jr.)

Class #4 – May 17:
(FAME IV): The Delphic Sibyl (from the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel by Michelangelo Buonarroti) and Gregorian Chants (St. Gregory)
Lunch provided (open to all students)

To Order:
Launchpad > orders > More ordering options > VIE Activities and Events >
Select the drop down Fieldtrip
Put in Amador in the first box or
Put in Event # 21232 in the third box
Click on the class

Note:  Gingerbread House enrollment will be open in October.  It is a different number.  See attachment

Hope to see you there! If you have any questions, please contact Traci Muldery, CT (209) 217-6538.
Download Flyer

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 9/6
Labor Day - No School

Tuesday
Ione
Joseph - 11:00
Jaye - 12:30
Tiffany & Madison - 1:30

Wednesday
Jackson
Isabeau & McKenna - 11:00
Wyatt - 1:30
Emily - 2:30

Thursday
Plymouth
Jezreel - 11:00
David - 3:30

Friday
Office Day

Amador Homeschooling Co-op Field Trip to Apple Hill

The field trip consists of a hayride overlooking the apple orchard. The students will get to watch the process of making apple cider, caramel apples and an apple pie. Everyone who participates will receive an Apple for a snack.

Where: High Hill Ranch, 2901 High Hill Rd, Placerville, CA 95667
When: Tuesday, September 20 at 10:00 a.m.
Cost: $5 per person

If you would like to go:
RSVP to Cindy Tilton at maycricket72@ gmail.com by September 15th.

Enrichment Activities

Enrollment begins tomorrow! New classes in Folsom and Lodi!

Here is just a taste of what is available:
Cooking, Designing Roller Coasters, Wind Power, Exploring the World, Soccer Training, Dance, Mad Science, Volleyball, First Aid, Japanese Art, Basketball, Engineering Fundamentals with Lego...there is way too much to list!

Helpful links:
Events and activities hub page 
How to order activities video

Classes will be open for registration:

1. Tuesday, August 30 – Rescue, Folsom, Concord
2. Wednesday, August 31 – Carmichael, Fairfield
3. Thursday, September 1 – Lodi, Galt, Roseville, Brentwood/Antioch, Benicia

Activities will be opened one at a time beginning at 8:00 am on these dates. Email with any questions: James Mayo: jmayo@viedu.org or Christina Jonsson: cjonsson@viedu.org.

The Jackson Lego classes are a slightly different because they are the ONLY enrichment class located in Jackson. Here is the information for enrollment on Launchpad:

​Registration will open Friday morning, Sept 2nd.​ Classes are held at Grace Fellowship 8040 S. Hwy 49, Jackson.

Dates: 9/28, 10/19, 11/2, and 12/14
Grades K-4 -  12:10-1:30   LP​#20911
Grades 5 - 10 - 1:40-3pm   LP​#20912
Price:  $66

Do You Need a Laptop?

To rent a new Visions HP Laptop:

1. Place an order for a new laptop computer in Launchpad, which will be approved by CT. (New Order > More ordering options > Computer Services)
2. Once the order is approved, skyQ will call the family to set an appointment to return their old desktop or laptop computer (if they have one) and pick up the new one. The Resource Center staff will reverse the retention fee for the returned computer, if the return occurs by Friday, September 2, 2016.

FYI...
Laptop rental is $300 for the year.
Printers are $75 for the year.
Monitors are $90 for the year.
If you need internet service, you can rent a MIFI for $500 for the year. ($50/mo)

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 8/29
Office Day
Available for questions and support

Tuesday
Jackson
Back to School Park Day
Charlotte - 12:30

Wednesday
Ione
Grace - 11:00
Bonnie - 12:05
Khloe & Sadie - 1:10 (Drop in)

Thursday
Ione
Justin - 11:00
Leila - 12:05
Jasmine & Roxie - 1:30

Friday
Office Day

Available for questions and support

Semester Plans

Returning Families: I have created and shared your semester plans. If you are a returning family and didn't get yours, please let me know.

New Families: I plan to share and explain your semester plan at our first meeting. If you would like it earlier, just send me an email and I'll get it out to you.


Reminder: We want to have the Fall plan complete by the end of LP1, and the Spring plan complete by the end of LP5.

Our First Meeting

Thank you to everyone who has had the chance to reply to the proposed meeting schedule!
If you haven't had the chance, please take a minute to do so now: Meeting Schedule

Once I get everyone set, I'll begin to pencil in the dates for the rest of the year.

A Few Things to Note:

• Testing dates and some activities and events that I am required to attend have not been scheduled yet, and they often cause some rescheduling issues
• LP 10 is only 12 days. Yep, 12 DAYS! We are going to have to figure out what to do about that, maybe hold our own Park Day or do a drop off. There is no way to have a full, regular meeting schedule in 12 days :) 

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 8/22
Ms. Bryon in Carmichael for Professional Development

Tuesday
Office Day 
Available for questions and support

Wednesday
Anywhere
Available for before school meetings.
Call, text, or email to schedule

Thursday
Ione
Charlotte - 11:00
Clark's Corner
Drop in Meet and Greet - 12:30

Friday
Office Day
Available for questions and support

Welcome Back to School

I hope your summer was splendid, and I look forward to catching up with you and hearing all about it!  For the most part, I spent time with friends and family and rode my horses. I even began taking Cowboy Dressage lessons! It was a super few months, but I am ready for the Fall and the cooler temperatures.

I’m anticipating a great year, and it starts NOW! Well, almost ;-) You don’t begin for another two weeks...the first OFFICIAL day of school for you is the 29th, which is a Monday.   I, however, am officially back to work today.  I will start the day off making phone calls, beginning with families who are brand-new to Visions, followed closely by those who have an urgent need to speak with me, so holler if that is you!  On Tuesday the 16th, I have Teacher Inservice/Professional Development all day down in Carmichael.  I will continue my calls on Wednesday and Thursday, and anticipate getting to everyone by the end of the day on the 18th.

If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know, so that I can add you to my more “urgent” list for this week's calls. When we speak, we’ll discuss curriculum, lesson plans, meeting dates and times, and anything else you have on your mind.

Until then, I want to welcome you back and let you know I’m excited to see you guys again soon!

All my best,
Tamsen

Back to School Park Day

Bring your family and a picnic lunch.

Check out the new Enrichment Activities, meet and network with other Visions Families, CTs and Local Area Vendors.

Tuesday, August 30
10:30 to 12:30
Detert Park, Jackson
560 North Highway 49/88, Jackson, 95642
No Registration Required.

Back to School Resources

Here is a list of links you might find helpful:

• 2016/17 School Year Calendar
• Home School Academy Parent Training Videos
• Helpful Home School Documents Quick Links (Learning Units and Standards on second and third page)
• Ordering Reference Guide
• Instructional Materials & Services Purchasing Policies
• Home School Academy Purchasing Matrix

2016-17 School Calendars

2016-17 School Year Calendar

2016-17 Learning Period Calendar

Happy Summer!

Thank you all for a great year. I had a wonderful time being part of your educational experience this year and am looking forward to working with those of you who are returning next year. For all of you who are leaving Visions, I will miss you :)

Have a wonderful summer!

Dates to Note...

• Last Day of School - Friday, June 3rd - THIS FRIDAY!
• Last Day of Pre-Ordering - Friday, June 3rd
• Remote Book Return - Thursday June 9th - Jackson 9:00 to 11:00; Rescue 1:00 to 3:00
• Book Sale in Carmichael - Thursday, June 16th

• Regular Ordering Begins (including vouchers) - Thursday, July 7th

• CTs to Contact Families - Friday, August 19th
• First Day of School - Monday, August 29th

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 5/30
Memorial Day - No School

Tuesday
Ione
Khloe & Sadie - 11:00
Alexis and Tyler - 1:00
Leila - 2:30

Wednesday
Visions Graduation Ceremony in Sacramento

Thursday
Jackson Library
William - 11:30
Wyatt - 12:30
Matthew & Marie - 2:00
Emily - 3:30

Friday - Last Day of School!
Ione
Zora - 12:00
Lilly - 1:00
Gage - 3:00

Field Day This Thursday

One of the highlights of Visions’ annual events is Spring Field Days, a fun day of field games and activities organized by Visions staff and held at a variety of parks throughout our service area. This is a great opportunity for students and families to get to know and network with other home school families. And for kids to expend some energy!

Games are supervised by Visions CTs and staff, and the day ends with a family barbecue of hot dogs, chips, and lemonade. You won’t want to miss this day of fun and activities!

Important Details
Where: Detert Park, Jackson
When: Thursday, May 26, from 9:30 to 12:30

Come Prepared to Play
•WEAR ATHLETIC SHOES! Students will compete in a variety of field games, so it’s important they come prepared to play. All participating children must wear closed-toe, sports shoes.
•Adults are also asked to wear athletic shoes for a planned child-parent activity.
•Visions will provide water and snacks for participating students.

Networking & Family Barbecue
•While your kids are playing, take advantage of the opportunity to network with CTs, Administrators and other Visions home school families.
•A family barbecue will be offered from 12-12:30. Vegetarian option is available. Please RSVP your food choice in Registration Form below.
Home School Curriculum Preview
•Visit with a Visions curriculum expert and preview some of the newest Home School curriculum for 2016-17.

How to Enroll
The Spring Field Days are FREE for all students, siblings, and family members to attend.
So that we may appropriately plan for food and staffing, please register your student(s) by filling out the Field Day Registration Form.
To save time on the day of the event, bring a completed permission slip (one per household).

Interested in attending a Field Day in another location? See the WIRE post for information on all Field Day locations and dates.

Annual Book Sale

Information copied from the WIRE...

When: Thursday, June 16 from 12:00 – 3:00 pm (entry tickets handed out starting @ 11:00 am)

Where: Visions Carmichael Resource Center @ 5030 El Camino Avenue

Why: In an effort to reduce excess inventory resulting from returns, withdrawn students, etc., Visions will make available (at reduced pricing) various instructional materials

Who: Open to all students currently enrolled in the 2015/2016 school year who will be continuing with Visions for the 2016/2017 school year.

Student(s) must have completed and signed a 2016/2017 Master Agreement or confirmation of enrollment to receive your ticket for entry. (Please bring a copy of your signed MA or be prepared to work with staff to confirm enrollment for the new year)

What: All items are “as is” with no returns or support.  There will be a wide variety of consumable (no textbooks) items for sale:

• Manipulative materials
• Instructional materials, workbooks and resource books
• Chapter books and novels
• Miscellaneous software and DVDs

How: Families will fill out curriculum order forms on site for the items they select and check out with Visions staff.  The amounts spent will be charged to the student’s 2016/17 budget.

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 5/23
Office Day

Tuesday
Ione
Luke & Alex - 12:30
Jaye - 2:30

Wednesday
Jackson - Grace Church
Ana & Baruch - 12:30
Emily - 2:30

Thursday
Field Day

Friday
Office Day

Next Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 5/30
Memorial Day - No School

Tuesday
Ione
Khloe & Sadie - 11:00
Alexis and Tyler - 1:00
Leila - 2:30

Wednesday
Visions Graduation Ceremony in Sacramento

Thursday
Jackson Library
William - 11:30
Wyatt - 12:30
Matthew & Marie - 2:00

Friday - Last Day of School!
Ione
Zora - 12:00
Lilly - 1:00
Gage - 3:00

2016 - 2017 Semester Plans

Would you like your 2016 - 2017 semester plan early, so you can plan during the summer?

If so, please fill out this form and I will create it for you.

2016 - 17 School Year Calendar

School Year Calendar:
2016-17 School Calendar

School starts on Monday, August 29.
CTs will begin contacting returning families on Friday, August 19.

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 4/17
Ms. Bryon at Professional Development in Carmichael

Tuesday
Ms. Bryon proctoring Make-Up testing in Rescue

Wednesday
Ms. Bryon proctoring Make-Up testing in Rescue

Thursday
Pioneer Library
Connor - 11:30

Xanett - 12:30

Emma - 1:10

Friday
Office Day

Report Card Time

Can you believe that Monday is the beginning of LP10? Only four weeks left in the school year. Wow, this one went fast!

Don't forget that during this coming meeting, I will be collecting report card grades.

K-5
Do you have your semester 1 report card? The draft copy you used to record grades for semester 1? If so, just fill in your child's semester 2 grades in the second column and I will record them on my computer at our meeting. If you can't find your report card, let me know asap and I can email you another copy.

6-12
Just record your LP10 grades as you normally do, and I will average your cumulative grade at our meeting so you know what your final grades will be. Visions will mail your report card during the summer break.

Upcoming...

• LP 10 Begins - Monday, May 9th
• Curriculum Vendor Fair in Carmichael - Monday, May 9th, 10:00 to 12:00
• Jackson Field Day - Thursday, May 26th, 9:30 to 12:30 (Info on Field Days)
• Memorial Day - No School - Monday, May 30th

• Last Day of School - Friday, June 3rd
• Remote Book Return - Thursday June 9th - Jackson 9:00 to 11:00; Rescue 1:00 to 3:00
• Book Sale in Carmichael - Thursday, June 16th

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 5/9
Ms. Bryon in Carmichael for Vendor Fair

Tuesday
Plymouth
Jezreel - 10:00
Somerset
Yarrow - 11:30
Plymouth
David - 3:30

Wednesday
Ione
Grace - 11:00
Luke & Alex - 12:30
Jasmine & Roxie - 12:30

Thursday
Camino
Alex M. - 11:00
Somerset
Teran - 1:00

Friday
Office Day

Curriculum Fair - Vendors and Raffles

From the WIRE...

We are happy to announce the full list of curriculum vendors for the Curriculum Vendor Fair on May 9 in Carmichael and May 11 in Concord.

1. A Brighter Child

2. Acellus Academy*

3. Acorn Naturalists

4. All About Reading/All About Spelling

5. Art in History*

6. Art of Problem Solving*

7. Blackbird and Company**

8. Book Shark**

9. Brave Writer

10. Britannica School* **

11. Cengage Learning (National Geographic)* **

12. Essentials in Writing

13. Exploration Education*

14. Family Time Fitness*

15. Growing with Grammar

16. Handwriting Without Tears

17. Highlights

18. HMH School (Houghton Mifflin/Harcourt)* **

19. Home Science Tools*

20. Institute for Excellence in Writing

21. Kids Discover

22. Lakeshore Learning

23. Mango Languages*

24. Math-U-See

25. MBS Direct* **

26. Moving Beyond the Page**

27. My Homeschool Math Class*

28. Naviance*

29. Oak Meadow

30. Raddish Kids

31. Right Start Math

32. Singapore Math

33. Staples**

34. Starfall/More Starfall

35. Superkids**

36. Teaching Textbooks*

37. Thinkwell*

38. Time 4 Learning/Time 4 Writing

39. The Virtual Instructor*

40. Visions In Education Classes

41. The Well-Trained Mind*

42. Zoo-Phonics At Home

*New vendor and/or first-time appearance

**Representative from the company in attendance

The above vendors are working in coordination with Visions to provide curriculum samples, pamphlets, and/or valuable information about their products. The fairs are your chance to browse through samples, view vendor websites, and speak to company representatives or knowledgeable teachers about curriculum vendor options, all in an effort to aid your decision of what to order in the 2016/17 school year.

We are also excited to announce we will be holding a raffle with prizes for both parents and kids. We have a huge selection of books from Scholastic to raffle to students of all ages. And, for the parents, the following vendors have generously donated gift certificates, gift bags, or kits:
• Acellus
• Acorn Naturalists
• Art in History
• Art of Problem Solving
• Oak Meadow
• Right Start Math

Dates & Locations for the fairs are:
Carmichael – Monday, May 9, 10am – 12pm @ 5025 Manzanita Ave., Carmichael, CA 95608 (More Info)

Concord – Wednesday, May 11, 10am – 12pm @ 1925 Risdon Road, Concord, 94518 (More Info)

We hope to see you at the fairs!

CONGRATULATIONS!

To all students who have already completed testing! (Some locations began already).

For everyone testing in Jackson this week, how about some last minute practice?

CAASP Practice Tests

http://www.caaspp.org/practice-and-training/

CST Practice Tests

Grade 5 Science

Grade 8 Science

Grade 10 Science

This Week's Meeting Schedule

There are no regularly scheduled meetings this week as testing continues in Jackson. I will be proctoring in Jackson all week.

Monday 5/2
Office Day

Tuesday
Jackson - Grace Church - 9-12
Science Paper and Pencil Test (5th, 8th, and 10th Grades only)
Haley, Emily, Xanett, Alexis, David, Matthew

*After testing meeting: Haley, Riley, Madeline, Paige: ~ 12:30

Wednesday
Jackson - Grace Church - 9-12
Math and Language Arts Performance Tasks (3rd - 8th and 11th Grades)
Jasmine, Baruch, Xanett, Tyler, Lillian, Wyatt, Luke, Marie, Matthew, Gage

*After testing meeting: Gage ~ 12:30, Wyatt ~ 1

Thursday
Jackson - Grace Church - 9-12
Math and Language Arts Regular Tests

Jasmine, Baruch, Xanett, Tyler, Lillian, Wyatt, Luke, Marie, Matthew, Gage

*After testing meeting: Emily ~ 12:30

Friday
Jackson - Grace Church - 9-12

Extra time for students who did not complete testing on Tuesday-Thursday.

Field Days!

One of the highlights of Visions’ annual events is Spring Field Days, a fun day of field games and activities organized by Visions staff and held at a variety of parks throughout our service area. This is a great opportunity for students and families to get to know and network with other home school families. And for kids to expend some energy!

Games are supervised by Visions CTs and staff, and the day ends with a family barbecue of hot dogs, chips, and lemonade. You won’t want to miss this day of fun and activities!

Important Details
Where: Detert Park, Jackson
When: Thursday, May 26, from 9:30 to 12:30

Come Prepared to Play
•WEAR ATHLETIC SHOES! Students will compete in a variety of field games, so it’s important they come prepared to play. All participating children must wear closed-toe, sports shoes.
•Adults are also asked to wear athletic shoes for a planned child-parent activity.
•Visions will provide water and snacks for participating students.
Networking & Family Barbecue
•While your kids are playing, take advantage of the opportunity to network with CTs, Administrators and other Visions home school families.
•A family barbecue will be offered from 12-12:30. Vegetarian option is available. Please RSVP your food choice in Registration Form below.
Home School Curriculum Preview
•Visit with a Visions curriculum expert and preview some of the newest Home School curriculum for 2016-17.

How to Enroll
The Spring Field Days are FREE for all students, siblings, and family members to attend.
So that we may appropriately plan for food and staffing, please register your student(s) by filling out the Field Day Registration Form.
To save time on the day of the event, bring a completed permission slip (one per household).

Interested in attending a Field Day in another location? See the WIRE post for information on all Field Day locations and dates.

Enrollment Updates: Lottery, Siblings, Transfers, Children of Employees

From the WIRE...

LOTTERY
Due to the interest in our program, Visions in Education will be implementing a lottery for enrollment.  It is outlined here for you as a way to keep you informed and, to the degree that our families may have questions, so that you can respond to them.

WHY A LOTTERY?

Each year we monitor our enrollment by county and academy to ensure we can accommodate students seeking enrollment at Visions.  This year it is apparent that in some counties interest will now exceed our available space (capacity).  In our Charter we state that when our application pool exceeds capacity we will conduct a public random drawing (lottery).

HOW WILL THE LOTTERY WORK?
Continuing students and students that have been enrolled are not subject to the lottery. The completed applications (ensuring there has been submission of all supporting documents) are randomly sorted by the computerized Enrollment lottery and are not based on a first-come first-serve basis, so that when we enroll students they are in randomly-selected-order and not based upon when applications were completed.   If there is more than one student applicant in a household and one student is randomly selected, then the remaining applicants in that household fill the next openings. Following the deadline to submit applications on May 6, 2016, families will be informed of their acceptance into the requested program and school. Those who do not receive a placement through the lottery will be placed on a waiting list. Families will be informed of their number on the waiting list via phone or email by June 2016. All eligible applications following our enrollment deadline date of May 6, 2016 will be accepted or placed on a waiting list based on county and a first-come first-serve process...

Read the rest of the article on the WIRE post:
https://wire.viedu.org/enrollment-updates-lottery-siblings-transfers-children-of-employees/

This Week's Meeting Schedule

Monday 4/25
Office Day

Tuesday
Ione
Gage - 11:00
Leila - 12:30
Jaye ~ 1:35
Haley, Riley, Madeline, & Paige- 12:30

Wednesday
Plymouth
Jezreel - 11:00 - 11:30
Jackson - Grace Church
Ana & Baruch - 12:30
Emily - 2:30

Thursday
Jackson Library
William - 11:30
Wyatt - 12:30
Matthew & Marie - 2:00

Friday
Office Day