Alumni
A community where every adult leads a life of self-reliance and dignity
English as a Second Language, CTE- Office Skills Program, CTE- Infant & Childcare, Adult Basic Education & High School Equivalency
Years 2023-2025
Hello, My name is Maribel Bejar Perez. I attended the ESL, GED, Child Care, and Office Skills I and II programs at VAS. I came to find these programs because I was looking to further and improve my professional skills. The program at Visalia Adult School helped me gain the skills I needed to advance professionally.
I enjoyed many things in these programs. One of those was learning about Excel and becoming familiar with it. This program showed me many different ways on how to manage some applications professionally. The greatest impact on shaping how I am today is my family. They encouraged me to go back to school because education is always valuable and rewarding. Their guidance has helped me develop confidence and a strong sense of identity because of them I never gave up on my goals. My family’s influence inspires me to be better in my education.
My values include education, hard work, and helping others. I value education because I believe learning opens doors to better opportunities.The ESL and GED programs allowed me to strengthen my language and skills so I can communicate effectively. I also value responsibility and compassion which connects to the child care and office skills program.
Attending VAS can be a great decision for anyone who wants to improve their life and future. My first tip is to believe in yourself. It's never too late to learn new skills, or finish your education because it is not just about learning new skills; it's about gaining confidence and opening doors to better opportunities. The effort you put in today will create a brighter future tomorrow.
After I completed my courses at Visalia Adult School I applied to a non-profit organization where I use the skills I learned at Visalia Adult School every day at my job. I also plan on improving my community involvement, where I will work in programs that support children education and family services. I am currently enrolled at College Of The Sequoias where I am taking more courses to improve my language.
- Maribel Bejar-Perez
Maribel Bejar- Perez
Congratulatory Message
I'd like to take a moment to shine a light on one of our students who truly embodies the meaning of perseverance. It's my honor to recognize Maribel Bejar for her remarkable determination in both of my classes. In our class, we've had our share of challenging lessons and complex projects. But Maribel has consistently approached every task with a powerful "I can do this" attitude. Instead of giving up, she stayed after class, asked questions, and broke the problem down piece by piece. She didn't let a setback discourage her; she used it as motivation to come back even stronger. I am beyond proud of all her accomplishments she has received. Currently working at Parenting Network as a Community Navigator and enrolled now at College of the Sequoias. I am so proud of her and her determination to continue to be better. Congrats Maribel!
Instructor, Karla Cortes
The Big Day!
Nancy Lorena Perales Perez
Citizenship, High School Equivalency & English as a Second Language
May 2024
My name is Nancy, and I am proud to say that I completed my English, GED, and Citizenship classes at Visalia Adult School. None of this would have been possible without my teachers—Sarah Motola (ESL), Cary Kalfayan (Citizenship), and Lauren Haley (GED Math).
They were more than teachers to me; they were motivators, encouragers, and true examples of patience and dedication. Each one of them helped me believe in myself when I doubted.
During that time, I had two kids at home, I was pregnant with my third, and I was running my own business. It was exhausting, and there were moments when I almost gave up. But I learned that nothing changes if you don’t take action. Step by step, with determination and perseverance,
I achieved one of the most important goals of my life—I became a U.S. citizen.
My message to others is—don’t wait for the “perfect moment.” Start now, keep going, and believe in yourself. With effort and perseverance, your dreams can become reality.
- Nancy
Dawn Carter-Shupe
Vocational Nursing Program
Pinning Ceremony- Class of 2023
In 2019, I enrolled in the evening Certified Nurse Assistant class at Visalia Adult School. My goal at the time was simple: to gain foundational knowledge and complete a prerequisite for the Vocational Nursing program. In 2021, I took a leap and applied to the Vocational Nuring program and to my surprise, I was accepted.
The full-time program was challenging, no doubt about it. But with the support of my family, I persevered and proudly graduated in 2022. My biggest inspiration throughout this journey has always been my children. As a mother of three, I began this new path in healthcare after raising my family. At first, I worried I was too old to start something new first with the CNA program, then again with the VN. But that’s the beauty of education: it has no age limit. You’re never too old to learn, grow, or chase a new dream.
Visalia Adult School was there for me every step of the way from CNA to VN, and now as a CNA Instructor. The staff consistently offered guidance, answered my questions, and shared words of encouragement when I needed them most. Thanks to their support, I passed the NCLEX and began my career as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN).
To anyone considering classes at Visalia Adult School: do it. Take the first step. You never know where it might lead.
- Dawn Carter-Shupe
Ryan Saetern
Vocational Nursing Program
Pinning Ceremony- Class of 2024
Balancing the roles of a devoted husband and father of four, I draw my greatest inspiration from my family and from my parents, who immigrated from Thailand and have worked tirelessly on a farm to provide for their children. Their resilience and sacrifice shaped my belief that hard work and perseverance open doors to opportunities. My journey has not been without challenges, but I have learned that failure is a stepping stone to growth.
I remind myself daily, "How bad do you want it?"- a question that fuels my drive to push beyond obstacles. Discovering my purpose was life changing, and Visalia Adult School played a vital role in that transformation.
The school not only gave me the skills and knowledge to become a strong candidate for employment but also provided unwavering support, even after graduation, to ensure I stayed on track toward my goals. Their dedication to student success is a true testament to the impact education can have on a person’s life.
-Ryan Saetern
Congratulatory Message
Ryan Saeturn is a wonderful LVN who is going to be an amazing Registered Nurse. Ryan's dedication and perseverance in overcoming so many challenges to get into the RN program are inspiring. Students like Ryan Saeturn remind me why I love what I do.
Joyce Glaspie RN, DSD, BSN, Vocational Nurse Program Coordinator
Ana Roxana Opazo Valdivia
Vocational Nursing Program
Pinning Ceremony- Class of 2023
I officially began my nursing journey in 2021 starting with the CNA program followed by the LVN program in 2023. Nursing school has challenged me in many ways, mentally, physically and emotionally but I always had the support of my instructors. The instructors see the potential in you and as long as you put in the hard work they won’t let you stray from your goals.
I am driven by my family, especially my dad. I was just a toddler when he and my mom made the decision to move to the United States from Chile. I think of the sacrifices they made, leaving their family and moving to a country they didn’t know much about including the language and life they knew and were accustomed to. My parents did this so we could have a better life and work hard to take every opportunity to further our education. I strive to have the courage and strength they had; To do and be better everyday and show compassion and patience to everyone I interact with.
I enjoyed my experience at Visalia Adult School, VUSD, I can’t thank Ms. Glaspie and Ms. Musto enough for all their encouragement and knowledge they passed along. I would tell anyone that is contemplating on beginning school especially at a later time in life to stop contemplating and just do it. The hard work and challenges you’ll face won’t seem so bad once you graduate and look back on all the accomplishments you’ve made.
“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened”
Lisa Garcia
CTE- Microsoft Skills & Keyboarding
Year 2007-2008
The drive to overcome challenges and defy expectations fuels my daily motivation. As a pregnant 17-year-old high school senior, many anticipated that I would drop out, depend on government assistance and become another statistic. Some friends and, regrettably, even family members doubted my ability to finish high school, let alone attend college. Despite these doubts, I graduated with my class and post the birth of my son, earned my A.S. degree. My journey was driven by a desire to inspire my son, demonstrating that hard work and dedication can lead to remarkable achievements!
The urge to surmount life's obstacles is my daily inspiration.
In 2007-2008, Visalia Adult School was instrumental in helping me obtain my typing certification and enhance my Microsoft skills. These classes provided by Visalia Adult School were crucial in my journey to becoming a Finance Coordinator at Visalia Unified School District. "Stronger than yesterday." This captures the essence of resilience. It reminds us that each day offers a chance to grow, learn, and improve. This mindset is invaluable, both in our personal lives and professional journeys. It's about continuously pushing forward, regardless of the challenges, and becoming a better version of ourselves each passing day.
Congratulatory Message
Lisa was a dedicated, ambitious and goal-oriented student. I enjoyed getting to know her and learn of her aspirations to get into the district at that time. It was a joy to have her in class and be a part of her journey in getting a job with VUSD. I am so proud of her and all of her accomplishments. Congratulations Lisa!
Instructor, Mona Peracca
Yanet Torrecilla, Los Chicharos
Check out Yanet's business by going here: https://www.facebook.com/jane.torrecilla.7/
ESL Program & Spanish GED
Year 2021
My family inspires me each day, they help me achieve all my goals and we plan our future goals together.
I would others that are may possibly feel like their goals are unreachable to not give up and keep trying no matter how hard it gets. There is no dream too big or too small, every dream can be fulfilled if you set your mind to it. Visalia Adult School gave me a strong support system in where they helped guide me through my GED process along with ESL classes. They also helped me navigate through college and helped prepare me for it.
I always had the dream to one day be able to have my own business and to be able to share it with my family. I am thankful and appreciative everyday. "El querer es poder,"- this means that you really want something you must give it your all to achieve it.
Nora Castellanos
English as a Second Language
Year 2019
My name is Nora Castellanos and I moved to Visalia 5 years ago. In 2019, I was new in town I decide to register to attend to Visalia Adult School. Here is where I met two great teachers, Sarah Motola and Mona Peracca. They always motivated me to continue my education. This is when I decided to continue and registered to College of sequoia to grow personally and professionally. They also encouraged me to apply for a job opportunities and to not be afraid of failure.
I am proud to share that I have been working for three years now at Proteus Inc. Here I am able to help my community in many ways. A few ways that I have been able to help my community is during the pandemic, as a contact tracer I not only alerted the new cases of Covid 19 to quarantine but also I helped them on how they could minimize some risks. I felt pretty useful. To my surprise most people were happy to answer my phone calls and were really grateful.
Also I’ve been helpful in my locality as program support specialist assisting farmworkers with their eligibility for various support services, but even more important, encouraging them to get a job training focused on improving their performance. I really enjoy this because being in touch with the community makes me feel connected and helpful.
I only have words of gratitude for Visalia Adult School. I would recommend Visalia Adult School to any adult looking for an opportunity to build their confidence in speaking, writing and understanding English. This is a great place to start making your dreams come true. The staff will help you transition to College of the Sequoias to continue gaining skills for your life.
I am thankful to have gained fluency confidence in the English language and that it has made a huge impact in my life. I hope my story inspires you to invest in your education and gain the skills to make your goals a reality
Education is always the best investment. Education does not only transform your life, but everyone around you. I am an example of this transformation.
Nora always went above and beyond in her academics and assisting other students in their assignments. She added joy, a wealth of knowledge and servitude to all. I know she will continue to serve our community well with her excellent interpersonal skills.
ESL and IET Instructor, Mona Peracca
ARELY SALDANA
ESL Program
Year 2014
My name is Arely Saldana, and I am an MA student in the Psychological Science program at California State University Chico. I work as an Outreach Ambassador for the Adelante Postbaccalaureate Pipeline Program, which supports Latinx, low-income, and first-generation college students who want to pursue graduate school. I am also a research assistant at the Johnson Lab of Behavioral Economics at Chico State.
With so many experiences under my belt, it is hard to believe that I came to the United States less than ten years ago without any money or without being able to speak a word of English. I was only 18 and fresh out of high school when I left behind my tiny town in the Mexican mountain ranges to move to Visalia, CA, where I enrolled in ESL classes at VAS. I struggled. As a socially anxious teen, the idea of being in a room full of strangers speaking a language I did not understand was terrifying. Yet, that is precisely what I had to do. I attended VAS for a few months, and Instructor Motola recommended that I continue learning at the local community college. I will always be grateful for that suggestion. Thanks to the ESL classes at VAS, not only was I able to register for classes at the local community college, but I was also able to find a job as a student assistant on campus.
It has been several years since my story started. What has kept me going is the knowledge that I am paving the way for my little brother and sister, should they ever decide to follow in my steps. My advice to those who may be currently struggling or who might be looking into taking ESL classes at VAS is not to give up. Surprisingly, the hardest part is getting started, and if you start, you are already halfway there. In the beginning, it is difficult and frustrating to try to learn a new language, especially if, like me, you are struggling with social anxiety, financial problems, and even loneliness. But I promise, it does get easier, so long as you do not give up.
Arely was my ESL student in 2014. I remember that she was quiet and smart. Little by little, as she came out of her shell, her fun and engaging personality started to emerge. She went on to COS where she continued studying English. She wrote me a very sweet and kind letter letting me know that I had contributed to her learning and success. I am glad that VAS had a part in her success! I then saw that she went on to Chico State where she pursued a B.A. Most recently, I found her on LinkedIn where I read that she is finishing her M.A.! Wow! Arely continues to demonstrate steadfastness in making and achieving her goals. I know that she will be successful in anything she decides to pursue! The VAS team and I are so proud of her and all of her achievements!
Congratulations, Arely! We at VAS wish you future success in anything that you choose to pursue!
ESL & Spanish GED instructor, Sarah Motola
GRACIE HAUK
Vocational Nursing Program
Pinning Ceremony- Class of 2022
The program I completed at Visalia Adult School was the Vocational Nursing program. I was looking to further my career and I had already been a Certificated Nurse Assistant (C.N.A.). I wanted a program that would utilize my skills as a CNA and the Visalia Adult School program did just this. What I enjoyed the most about the VN program is that I had the opportunity to help our community. I was able to participate with my classmates in vaccine clinics and getting the opportunity to volunteer and spend time helping others. My mother and younger brother have both been huge motivators in my life. They give me the continuous support to continue pursing my goals. Mrs. Glaspie, our VN coordinator made sure our clinical groups obtained super hands on experience and made sure we were confident in our techniques.
I value experiences. Experiences have made my nursing journey all more meaningful. I want to help give someone a good experience in a situation that might not be ideal for them. I am currently at Porterville College continuing my prerequisites for a LVN-RN bridge program and am hoping to be in a program by 2024.
If you're thinking of attending the Visalia Adult School, make the most of it. Volunteer, make friends and prioritize your learning and take as many opportunities as you can.
Gracie Hauk is one of the youngest students in the VN Classroom and is mature beyond her years. Gracie consistently displays a positive attitude and energetic spirit. Gracie has a heart for community service and generously volunteers her time to assist in various vaccine clinics and other activities by putting in extra hours. Gracie is eager to meet the needs of her community, peers and the VN program. One of the assets Gracie brings to our program is her ability and willingness to provide interpreter/translation services for our Spanish speaking patients. At a recent volunteer community event, it was unusually busy and Gracie spent 5 hours facilitating communication with out taking a break or giving one single injection. She placed the needs of her patients above her desire to give vaccines. Gracie displays all the characteristics of a compassionate and competent nurse! Gracie was the very first student in her class of 50 students to take and successfully pass her NCLEX (nursing license) exam!
Gracie is officially a Licensed Vocational Nurse and has already been hired as a LVN at Kaweah Health in Visalia! Many kudos and well wishes for Gracie! She has set the standard and is a shining example in our community!
VN Coordinator, Joyce Glaspie
IMELDA MARTIN
GED, Medical Assistant, Microsoft Excel, Google Basics and Certificated Nurse Assistant Program
Year 2022
There are many programs that I completed and participated in at the Visalia Adult School. I simply walked into the main office to ask questions and learned about all their programs. I started my experience at VAS in the GED program, from there I moved into the Medical Assistant program, Microsoft Excel, Google Basics and lastly Certificated Nurse Program in 2022.
What I enjoyed the most about the programs at Visalia Adult School is that I was able to enjoy the experience and learn new things. I learned so much about health care. This is one of the reasons why if I had to pick my spirit animal, it would be a lion; I protect my family and the people I care for.
My kids have the greatst impact on who I have become today. I want to show them that no matter what age you are and what your dreams may be, that with hard work and perseverance, you can accomplish anything you want. I want them to be proud of me and know that it was not easy working and going to school but that I never gave up on my goals. My values are to be compassionate, respectful, honest and treat others as you wish to be treated.
I want to thank Visalia Adult School for the programs they have and their AWESOME Teachers. Thank you for everything! Recently I got hired as a CNA at a hospital. I'm going to work, gain experience and work towards becoming a LVN or RN!
For anyone interested in pursuing a program at VAS, just go for it. its never too late to start your education.
Imelda is wonderful, very ambitious and kind. She was always enthusiastic about learning. I am so excited to hear about her new journey as a CNA and wish her all the best on this next career move.
GED Instructor, Mona Peracca
Juan Carlos Calderon
ESL and Citizenship Student
Year 2019
The Visalia Adult School program was excellent to learn about the citizenship and it was recommended to me by a friend. What I enjoyed most about the program was the way I was able to interact with classmates and the teacher. My goal was to become a citizen and improve myself more and more everyday in this country. I consider my animal spirit a lion because a lion is a symbol of strength and courage and also symbolizes power and personal determination. My family and friends have the greatest impact on shaping who I am today. My values are what my parents instilled in me; To be a good citizen and a good father of family. For anyone that is is thinking about attending Visalia Adult School, my suggestion is to go VAS. I recommend it. It is a very good school to learn English and to help you obtain your citizenship. VAS has very good staff and teachers.
Juan Carlos a.k.a. The Fly entertained us all in (ESL) class. What would mostly be considered a "distraction" in other classes (his jokes and funny stories) actually worked well in ESL; when his fellow students "got" his jokes and understood his stories that signaled to me that their English was improving! In fact, his storytelling and comfortable way of speaking in English encouraged others to do the same. Thanks to Juan Carlos we learned English AND we had fun, too.
After ESL, Juan Carlos went on to the citizenship class. He was a serious student expressing a real interest in learning the material. As a busy restaurant owner and father, he still made the commitment to attend class even with his many obligations. He is smart and determined hence I am proud but not at all surprised that he achieved his goal of becoming a citizen. Congratulations on your achievement of citizenship, Juan Carlos!
Teacher, Sarah Motola
Cesar Vasquez
Spanish GED (High School Equivalency)
Year 2019
I found the GED program in Spanish by approaching the Visalia adult school. Honestly, what I enjoyed the most was meeting people with the same vision as me, since we were only looking to achieve our goal of being able to obtain our GED certificate. Even so, after being able to obtain this goal, the dreams did not stop there. I continued looking for opportunities to feel even more successful in my goals, my options were higher after obtaining my GED. I am a person of Faith and I consider my animal spirit to be like the eagles since I was born to fly high and even more so since God drives me. My children and wife are definitely the pillars that drive me to be a better person, since I want to set this example so that my children can see the goals they set for themselves can be achieved. The values that mark my life are: Faith, Family and honesty. After graduating and obtaining my GED certificate, it gave me security and I felt able to choose what job I wanted to be in, since situations were no longer going to decide for me. To those who are reading this and are studying to get their GED to continue dreaming; The sky is the limit, set goals, live the opportunities that are presented to us and if one door closes there are 3 or 4 more open.
Traduccion Español
El programa de GED en español lo encontré acercándome a preguntar en la escuela de adultos de Visalia. Honestamente lo que más disfruté fue encontrar personas con la misma visión que yo, ya que solamente buscábamos alcanzar nuestro objetivo el poder obtener nuestro certificado de GED. Aún así después de poder obtener este objetivo los sueños no quedaron ahí seguí buscando oportunidades paras sentirme aún más exitoso en mis objetivos, mis opciones fueran más altas teniendo de mi lado mi educación que acababa de concluir (Mi GED). Soy una persona de Fe y mi espíritu animal lo considero como las águilas ya que nací para volar alto y más aún ya que Dios me impulsa. Definitivamente mis hijos y esposa son los pilares para impulsarme a ser mejor persona, ya que quiero poner este ejemplo para que mis hijos puedan ver que los objetivos que se propongan se pueden alcanzar. Los valores que marcan mi vida son: La Fe, La familia y honestidad. Después de egresar y obtener mi certificado de GED me dio seguridad y sentirme capaz de poder escoger en qué trabajo quería yo estar, ya las situaciones no iban nunca más a decidir por mi. Yo exhortó a cada unos de los que me puedan leer y están cursando para poder obtener su GED sigan soñando que el límite es el cielo, propónganse metas vivan las oportunidades que se nos presentan y si una puerta se cierra hay 3 o 4 más que se abren.
From the very first meeting, his participation was delightful by sharing his knowledge and experiences in life. His politeness was very noticeable since day one. Despite all adversities, he never missed a meeting showing enthusiasm to the other students and he demonstrated to be a positive influence in the classroom, he was serious about graduation. His smile and attitude were contagious, creating a fabulous learning environment. Very soon he started showing determination and he was scheduling exams, studying very intensively, struggling, but he never let himself down. He kept ongoing. He graduated from VAS. Cesar is an inspirational story of overcoming adversity.
Teacher, Patricia Margni
