2023-24 Student Spotlight
Gear Up for Success at VAS!
Empowering Our Community
Look back at the remarkable achievements from the 2023-2024 academic year. We celebrate our graduates, completers and students who demonstrated extraordinary commitment and talent on their path to success.
September 2023
Rosa Sandoval
Engilsh as a Second Language
I like this ESL program at Visalia Adult School because it is adapted to what I am learning and I found VAS from attending class at Goshen last year with teacher Judy. I enjoy teacher Judy’s ESL classes. They are very fun and I learn quickly. My values are being a good mom to my daughter and helping others. I advise you that it is never too late to learn. I plan to be in another class to continue learning more English in hopes that I can continue to advance my levels.
Student, Rosa Sandoval
Congratulatory Message & Shout Out!
Rosa's ID number is a very old one, which means she attempted to be a student long ago. She just returned last year in the Goshen ESL class. In Goshen, she came to school regularly and worked very diligently to improve her English skills. She did so successfully going up a level. When she was told there wouldn't be a class there this year, she purposefully decided to attend ESL class on campus. She is now in my Intermediate ESL class working as she did in Goshen - diligently, intentionally, responsibly. She attends regularly and usually practices on Burlington English outside of class. She was proud to tell me the other day that she was able to help her daughter write sponsorship letters for her school and project. She was excited that she understood much of what she was writing. I expect Rosa to make more gains and soon be able to transfer to the next level.
Instructor, Judy Moxley
Vocational Nursing Program
I found out about the Visalia Adult school as I was wanting to change my career, and found the certified nurses assistant program. Through the CNA class I found out about the vocational nurses program, which I am currently enrolled in. Throughout the entire program I have learned a lot and have made more than just friends, but classmates who I consider as close as family. With their support as well as my own family and my teacher, they are helping shape and mold me into the future nurse that I will become.
To all those who are looking into VAS programs, do not give up. To shoot for it, because the teachers and staff here all care about their students and strive to help give them the stepping stones to achieve what is needed, not only through passing classes, but through building connections outside of the school setting. They helps us to get us where we need to go.
I am only half way through the program, but my plan is to finish strong and build myself up as well as help grow with my classmates (family) to become an amazing Licensed Vocational Nurse. After I graduate I plan on continuing through the medical field and going through the bridge program to get my RN and seeing where life decided to take me after.
Curtis Jobe
Congratulatory Message & Shout Out!
Curtis Jobe is a second semester Vocational Nursing student with an excellent bedside manner. He consistently receives positive feedback from patients and instructors for his kind and gentle approach to nursing care. Curtis is also gifted in the use of technology and regularly volunteers to help his peers with minor technology issues whenever needed. He will do well in the areas of Nursing Informatics and Simulation, and we look forward to watching him continue to expand his skill set.
Instructor, Kendra Bostic
Fernando Velasquez
Congratulatory Message & Shout Out!
When Fernando enrolled in the ABE program, he did so with the intention of truly making learning gains and to improve his skills. He attends class every day, is patient with the learning process, and maintains a positive outlook on where his hard work will take him. I am very proud of Fernando for being an exemplary model of dedication to learning.
Instructor, Lauren Haley
Adult Basic Education
I wanted to continue improving my English and math skills, so I started researching my options on the internet. After looking at a couple places, I found that VAS fit my schedule and learning goals best, so it became by first choice. I genuinely enjoy and feel motivated to learn more when I see myself growing. The program is straight forward and easy to navigate. It teaches a range of skills so that I can get maximum value for my training.
My father by not being there for me has the greatest impact on who I am today. I was 2 years old when he was killed and my family (4 siblings and Mom) were nearly homeless. For that reason, I had to learn to be independent and had to take care of myself from a very young age. However, at the same time, I missed out on the chance to go to school full time or get a formal education despite my learning many things hands-on. For these reasons, his absence had the greatest impact on who I am today. Beyond my father, I have been inspired by some great people in history who have said things that have moved me forward in my life. For example, "I believe that every right implies a responsibility; every opportunity, an obligation; every possession, a duty."- John D. Rockefeller and "Anyone who stopes learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young."- Henry Ford.
My values are focused on the pursuit of happiness through having positive reinforcement and accomplishments, evolving a passion into a vocation and career, having a family who supports and stands with me and that I can give back to and support financially. My future plan is to attend college and hopefully get a diploma or degree that allows me to work in a profession that excites and interests me.
Recognize that you are being handed a gift of learning and use it. Spend the time to do the work and don't give up if it becomes challenging. We are all adults, so our lives keep us busy, but you have to commit to this program if you want to get anywhere. My advise is that sometimes people assume there's some magical trick or shortcut to time management. It is important to be aware of the things that waste time and reduce them. You do not have to stop them, you just have to reduce them. Take action to replace time wasters with active and responsible habits. "I am a slow walker, but I never walk back." -Abraham Lincoln
Student, Fernando Velasquez
October 2023
Daisy Garcia
In the past couple months here at Visalia Adult School, Daisy has shown us that in spite of her personal life, Daisy is a warrior! She had a sudden unexpected lost in her family and she made her dwell a motivation to continue on. She is an example for her peers as she is one from our class with perfect attendance! She is always on time, ready to learn and always has the courage to ask 10 questions a day if needed!
Instructor, Laura Jacinto
CTE- Medical Billing & Coding
I am so grateful to be chosen for this month's spotlight. First of all I want to give thanks to Mrs. Jacinto, our teacher with her guidance, support and her passion for teaching. She has truly made a positive impact on my career. Thank you for believing in us. I am currently taking the Medical Billing and Coding class in VAS. This program focuses on teaching you the skills you need to work in the healthcare administration. You learn how to accurately assign codes to medical procedures and diagnosis, also handle insurance claims, and ensure proper billing practices which is a crucial role in the healthcare industry.
I came to find this program online on the schools website. I was looking to go back to school after being a stay at home mom for years and I saw this program and wanted to give it a try and I've been liking it so far. What I enjoy about the medical billing and coding program is how fascinating it is to learn the details of healthcare documentation and its important role it plays in patient care. Also I enjoy the challenge of deciphering codes and ensuring accurate billing. If you have good attention to detail and also have an interest in healthcare this program is for you.
My family has had the greatest impact on shaping who I am today because they have supported and encouraged me to be the best person I can be and each and everyone of them have been there for me every step of the way. My biggest tip would be to not be scared to get out of your comfort zone. It might seem frightening at first but this experience has been very rewarding and I would not be where I am today if I hadn't taken that first step.
Student, Daisy Garcia
Khulood Alfareh
High School Diploma
My name is Khulood Alfareh. I am currently enrolled in the high school diploma program doing coursework independently. I found VAS through the ESL classes I was taking. I noticed that my English was improving and decided it was time to enroll in getting my degree.
I enjoy being able to communicate with my teacher Tiffany. She is a huge help to me and inspires me to keep going because I am planning on graduating this year. I should also mention that my mother and sisters have greatly influenced who I am now since without their support, I wouldn't be where I’m at today.
One piece of advice I would give you is to never give up. Also, never be embarrassed to seek clarification on homework or questions from your teacher. My future plans are to go college to become a medical assistant after receiving my high school diploma. Thank you VAS for giving students the opportunity to grow and become successful!
Congratulatory Message & Shout Out!
Khulood started at VAS in 2016 as an ESL student. From Yemen, she came to the US without an innate ability to speak English. In 2020 she moved up to HSD, wanting to do that program over HSE because she wanted to learn as big of a variety of English as possible, even though she had NO credits coming into the program. During the pandemic Khulood was not able to work the amount of hours she wanted as she was responsible for things at home, however, in the last year she has been able to blossom as a student and has completed 72 of her 155 credits, plus she has wiped out another 40 through work experience hours. She works in Edgenuity up to 60 hours a week even after giving birth to her second child in April and while caring for a toddler at the same time. She is kind and intelligent, and definitely should be an inspiration to us all!
Instructor, Tiffany Bridgwater-Rowe
November 2023
Jazzmyn Williams
High School Diploma
Congratulatory Message & Shout Out!
Jazzmyn transferred from High School Equivalency at the end of Spring 2023. She has been working persistently in the High School Diploma program ever since her transfer. She is intentional about building best practice study skills and strategies. She has a huge heart and is determined to use it to work with geriatric convalescent patients after earning her high school diploma and CNA license.
Instructor, Ginger Allen
Aiman Alhaj
Aiman joined our school and ESL Program at the start of last school year in the Beginning ESL level with Teacher Mona. During the year, he joined my Academic English class, which is where I got to know him. This year he has advanced to my Intermediate English class and is doing very well. Aiman is a dedicated and persistent student always entering the classroom with a joyous spirit, no matter how fatigued he is from his work, which requires long afternoon/evening and into the night hours. He always comes with an "I'm here to learn English" attitude as he readily participates in class. He is very kind helping his fellow students when needed and generous. Just one example - he recently brought a case of water to share with the class. His goal is to eventually be able to go to college and study architecture or law enforcement. I have no doubt Aiman will soon be advancing in English and will one day achieve his goals.
Instructor, Judy Moxley
English as a Second Language
Frankly, I do not know how to convey my deep thanks and gratitude to VAS, which has made me a different person by improving my English language skills. I am truly happy on this path and I thank all the distinguished teachers for their performance and effort they put in to teaching students and improving their English language everyday. Thank you to teacher Mona and the teacher Judy. I will never forget each of you for standing by our side, your ethical behavior. I will never forget you. I want to praise the school, each teacher, staff, and administrator.
I enjoy most in this program is learning new things every day. Learning takes plan in and outside of the classroom. We learn even when you discuss things outside the classroom lesson with the teachers and dialogue with the students. Each of us benefits from each other.
My mother and father are my biggest supporters and motivators for me. They are the ones who made me reach this stage. They are the ones who made me a different person than I was before, and I thank them very much for everything. Thank you, my mother, and thank you, my father.❤️
My values are morals and respect for others; To help everyone in need and have mercy on the weak.
My advice would be to anyone who is thinking about learning the English language. Of course, without a doubt, I will tell him about VAS and I will tell him about the teaching methods in it and how they really teach students. I will also tell him that , the teacher who will teach you, will not consider you as a student in front of her or will not deal with you as a teacher. Rather, she will deal with you in the most beautiful way, and she will be your teacher, friend, and sister during your learning stage, and they will be the ones who will make you love the English language.
I plan to finish my education in the English language. I know that anything is possible. Just continue your hard work and you will achieve all our goals, God willing, and I want to finish. After that, I will go to a university and complete my studies. I plan to complete major in Department of Architectural Engineering and before a major in the Sheriff’s Department.
I wish you a beautiful educational journey .
Student, Aiman Alhaj
January 2024
Shawna Frisby
Adult Basic Education
Congratulatory Message & Shout Out!
Shawna is an organized and responsible student who has made wonderful progress since enrolling in ABE. I'm impressed by her work ethic and dedication to learning. She is a shining example of someone who is committed to personal and educational growth, and what wonderful results we've seen! Very proud of you Shawna!
-Instructor, Lauren Haley
Fernando Frutero
Fernando consistently goes above and beyond in multiple ways. First, he always completes 100% of homework, and not just on time, but early (he even asks for more!)! Next, Fernando is an excellent communicator; he always tells me even when he will be even 5 minutes late. Finally, what really demonstrates Fernando's hard work (coming to class every day, on time, completing his homework 100%, focusing in class, etc.) are the results: Fernando went up 17 points in his reading score (from the end of Sept. to the beginning of Nov.)! Fernando works in Selma as a Quality Control Lead. He works the evening shift from 4 pm to 2:30 am. He still comes to class on time (with no complaints) at 8:30 am every day that we have class. He is a natural leader with a strong work ethic that he says he learned from his mom. He always pushes us, the teacher and his classmates, in class to go the extra mile. It's no wonder that he is getting results from his studies (17 points up in reading!)!
Instructor, Sarah Motola
English as a Second Language
Hi! My name is Fernando and I'm enrolled in English as a second language in Visalia Adult School. One day I was thinking: How can I improve my English and where can I go? So, I started to look for a school with good staff and good reviews; then, I found VAS. The things I enjoy most about my ESL class are my classmates and my teacher. Every day I learn something new from them. It's awesome to see how everybody pays attention to Teacher Sarah, and it's an honor for me to be learning English with them and helping them, too, with everything I can.
The greatest impact on me is my family. They always support me in every choice and every step in my life. They teach me how important it is to keep focused on my goals and the correct way to reach my goals. For me, it is 100% better the long way than getting lost in a shortcut. My values are: be honest, kind and humble. If you want to be a champion, get together with the champions, always believe in yourself and don't care what others say, just keep focused and always do your best effort. It is not important to fall; it is important to stand up. And always learn to separate the talent of the person, meaning many people have a talent, but they can be a bad influence on you.
If you are thinking of attending classes at VAS, that's the best option for you, you would learn a lot and you can see how your English improves in a few days and the teachers always believe and support the students, and that is the key to success. I am planning to study at College of the Sequoias, start a career and continue to learn English because it is a big language with thousands of words to learn everyday.
Student, Fernande Frutero
Mark Duran
Mark has been enrolled in HiSET for two years and has been working hard to complete his HiSET. He had previously passed his ELA GED test in 2018 and had to start over at the beginning with HiSET. He quickly passed both ELA (reading and writing) HiSET tests. He has also passed both science and social science HiSET tests. He is on track to pass his math test and be our first student to complete his HiSET.
Instructor, Erin Hennemann
High School Equivalency
I am currently enrolled with the Visalia Adult School here at SCDF as a general population inmate. I came to find knowledge of the educational opportunity from a good friend of mine Israel. What I enjoy the most is the enlightenment and inspiration given to me by my teacher Erin. Who, despite the circumstances and conditions of confinement we face, she looks past that and has blind faith in all her students. The motivation she brings every day is truly amazing.
My family, friends, and beautiful wife, Kayla, are all equally responsible for the impact on shaping me to the proud man I am today. Their everyday words of encouragement are what fuel my ambitious drive. So, a special shout out to my friends, family, and wife Kayla for standing tall by my side and always believing in me. Thank you, I love you all!! My values in life are being family orientated, money motivated, and open minded to all new and/or different perspectives of life that will broaden our minds to shape our destiny in life that we will live, because its not where society sees us and wants us at; its where you see and want yourself at in life.
My tips and suggestions to all who wish of attending VAS is like Nike says, “Just Do It!” You have nothing to lose, only gain as we all come from different walks of life. So, share your knowledge and be receptive to what others have to say because we all have something different to bring to the table that others can’t and that’s YOU!!
What I plan on doing from here is getting into electrical and business management where I can open up doors and opportunities for everyone who wishes to make their path to success wider. In order to do so advancement demands change and that starts here! Thank you to my teacher Erin for nominating me and all those who stay believing in me. Thank you!!
Student, Mark Duran
Petra Gaxiola De Torres
I found out about Visalia Adult School from my friend. I came in to VAS to sign up for the Citizenship class in 1996. I became a US Citizen in 1997 after taking classes here. What I enjoy most about the VAS programs is that it has helped me alot. When I first started, I did not even know how to use a computer. Now, I use a computer for everything. The teachers that I have had here at VAS have helped me tremendously. I've been in many different programs; Teacher Alison, Teacher Mona are some of these people. I am currently enrolled in GED and completed my first GED Subject test, Social Studies. I am learning so much.
I enrolled into GED to help myself and be an example for my granddaughters. My values are respect, loyalty, and love. Tips or suggestions I would give to others is: Come and study here, get it done. Come daily and do not pick and choose, just come to school. You can do it!
My next steps is to enroll into an actual Computer class and pass all my GED exams.
Student, Petra Gaxiola De Torres
Adult Basic Education
Congratulatory Message & Shout Out!
Petra is an amazing student. She consistently attends class and also studies at home. For 8 weeks in a row, she has been at the top of our class leaderboard for most time studied in a week. She typically puts in between 25-35 hours of studying each week. She has made great progress in her GED Program and is half-way done (she's passed 2 out of the 4 tests already). Keep up the good work Petra!!!
Instructor, Alison Wahlen
February 2024
Maria Lugo
Congratulatory Message & Shout Out!
Maria Lugo is an exceptional student! Last spring, Maria completed her GED in my Spanish HSE (GED) class in two and a half months! Next, she decided it was time to improve her English so this year she enrolled in ESL classes and was placed into my intermediate high/advanced ESL class. Her countless hours in class and on Burlington English paid off as her listening score went up 20 points from August to November! Also, this year, we added a new class: Government & History, so Maria decided why not take advantage of the opportunity to learn information that would help her in her future citizenship, so she added that class as well. On the Government & History (CASAS) state exam, she received 30 out of 30! In both classes, Maria is focused, determined, and always completes her tasks and homework, often asking for more. This spring, she also enrolled in the Small Business Ownership class. In December, she studied on her own, took, and passed the Paraprofessional/Instructional Assistant exam. I have no doubt that Maria will succeed in her goal of getting a job with the school district in the near future!
Instructor, Sarah Motola
ESL, GED, and Government & History
Hello, my name is Maria Lugo. I was feeling like I needed to change something in my life, so I decided to leave my comfort zone and started searching the web for a place where I could get the GED certificate in Spanish to join the workforce. Finally, I found Visalia Adult School, and in May 2023, I was able to obtain my GED Diploma. At the same time, I was in need of learning English, so in August 2023, I enrolled in ESL classes and then the Government & History class. Also, in January 2024 I began the Small Business CTE class, so I attend school Monday through Friday.
What I enjoy most is that I have met wonderful people, especially my teacher Sarah Motola. She is a very valuable guide for my classmates and I. She is always looking for ways to help us to improve in all areas of listening, writing, grammar, reading and speaking. It’s a very fun class and full of daily learning. Today I feel more comfortable doing simple things such as going to doctor's appointments, parent-teacher conferences and going shopping. I feel much more confident than before.
The greatest impact on who I am today are my daughters and my family. They always support me and encourage me to do everything for my personal growth. They are the engine of my life that drive me to do things better everyday. My values are to always be grateful, empathetic, persistent, responsible, and sincere. I have the responsibility that my daughters see me as an example and that they are aware of the importance of studying and preparing for a bright future. Also, studying is helping me to develop new habits such as being organized with my time and staying focused on what I want to accomplish.
I suggest to all people who are thinking about studying, don’t take too long and act! Visalia Adult School is a great fit for you. They offer different CTE careers as well as ESL classes and Adult Basic Education programs. They have the best staff members both in the office and teaching staff. They care about the students' growth and will guide you until you achieve your goal.
For my future, I’m planning to get a morning part-time job and to enroll in COS (College of the Sequoias) to continue my ESL learning journey. I’m thankful for Visalia Adult School because attending VAS helps me to see that there is a world full of opportunities out there waiting to be found.
Esperanza Garcia
High School Diploma
Hello, my name is Esperanza Garcia and I enrolled at VAS for my High School Diploma. In year 2020, I tried going back to school but unfortunately, I could not stay focused due to the loss of my mother. Last year, after my 25th birthday, I told myself I need to get my life straightened and back on track. I did JUST THAT! I was doing my schooling online at home with my 2 year old son by my side. That's what I enjoyed most, completing schoolwork and still being a stay at-home mother.
The greatest impact on me are my children. There have been many challenging obstacles I had to endure over the past couple of years. However, the strength I have within me really helped me push forward. My two boys taught me how to be a great mother and as time passed on, I told myself I need to change and be better. I felt so low last year on my birthday as I blew out my candles as I turned 25 years old. I knew I needed to better myself and make something of myself. I wanted to do this for my family. I've fallen apart so many times and since my 25th birthday, after that moment, I promised myself I would get back up and be ten times STRONGER, and I am thankful I have a supportive partner to help pick me up too.
This is only the beginning to the new and improved me. I plan to continue on with my education, and will start another program at VAS to get my career job. Some tips I have for those who feel down and low about their situation, do not give up! If you ever feel alone, just remember you are not alone, no matter how hard life may seem. PICK YOURSELF UP! You can do anything you put your mind to. BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!
Congratulatory Message & Shout Out!
Esperanza is an outstanding High School Diploma student. She was able to complete 29.5 credits since November to graduate on February 23rd. While putting in the many hours to earn this achievement, she earned good grades all the while being present with her son. Her goal was to complete her high school diploma to better support her family. Mission accomplished!
Instructor, Ginger Allen
Brenda Sedillo
CTE- Medical Billing & Coding
I am in the Medical Billing and Coding Program which I found scrolling through Facebook and decided to join. I am enjoying the great people I've met and being able to learn so much in a world I once knew nothing about. My daughter has the greatest impact on shaping me to be a better person. She is the reason why I came back to school to be able to give her a better life. A suggestion I'd give to someone thinking to attend this class is to just take that leap of faith. I'd never thought I'd go back to school since I'm not a "school type" of person but I overcame my anxiety, signed up, and went for it. Now I am very proud of myself for getting this far and being able to do more than I thought I could. After promoting this class I plan on applying to many more career options and hope to start in a position that I will enjoy. I want to not just have a job, but I want to be in a position with a career and doing something I know I will love.
Student , Brenda Sedillo
Congratulatory Message & Shout Out!
Brenda is an amazing young lady who is making the sacrifice of working night shifts to make ends meet as she is head of her home. Brenda is here to gain knowledge that will allow her to find a better job opportunity. She wants her daughter to know that it's never too late to continue your education as she is the clear example that with a bit of sacrifice all is possible. She is always on time to class and ready to learn with many questions for me when in doubt.
Instructor, Laura Jacinto
March 2024
Tobias Darn
I came across the intermediate welding program when I attended the previous semester in the Industrial Technology Program. Mr. Tenhet was my instructor and informed me that he also teaches the welding program.
The most i enjoy about this program is the feedback. And the one on one learning with Mr. Tenhet. The person who has the most impact on shaping who I am today is my daughter. She helps shape me simply because she wants to see me succeed, and I cannot let her down.
For the people who might be thinking or might not be sure about attending Visalia Adult. Just do it. You might be nervous at first. But you'll leave with your confidence sky high.
Student, Tobias Darn
CTE- Welding
Congratulatory Message & Shout Out!
Tobias, is an outstanding student and professional. I would hire him any day of the week, Everyday he is hard at work proving he has what it takes to be apart of our demanding industry.
Instructor, Mitchel Tenhet
Luis Herrera
I am in the Industrial Technology class and the Welding Class. I found out about these programs through a classmate and Friend, Tobias who was with me in a Welding class out of Hanford. He let me know what VAS had to offer and recommended some programs based off what I was doing for work and what I had planned to do.
What I enjoyed most about this program was the Teachers, Mitch and Tyler. I found it really easy to communicate with them and they made it clear they were there to help you with anything you may need I also had a good time with the class, we all got together to help each other out and work through our problems as a team.
My mother and my father helped to shape who I am and what I stand for, my mother the head of her family is always ready and willing to help you reach your goals and dreams anyway she can, she'd give the food off her plate if it helped you succeed and my father was always hard working, kind hearted as well. He left school at a young age to help raise money for his siblings and still managed to become a Radio Host, a Mechanic, and a Truck Driver on his own time. Their will to prosper and their willingness to give left its mark on me.
My core values I'd say are Family, Kindness, and Courage. Family is everything they're there for you through the highs and the lows, a great support system is key to keeping you on track. Kindness is important to me because, small gestures can make big impacts. I like to believe being kind is like a domino effect. It starts with you and gets passed on to the world, if you go out of your way and lend a hand it can be the catalyst to the next person doing the same down the road which in turn helps us all get ahead. And lastly Courage, courage is key to improving yourself in this life. No one ever got better staying in their comfort zone. You will never achieve what you never try and you cannot finish what you don't start. You have to have faith and belief in yourself to go out and reach your goals no matter how hard taking that first step may seem, you can do it!
For anyone interested in getting started here, I would say go for it. The class sizes allow for you to be heard and the staff is ready to help, I'd say be vocal. Ask questions, seek help when you feel you need it. I'd like to take what I learned here and start using it to take the next step into my career, whether that's Welding or Helping run a plant smoothly. I just want to use these skills to improve my job prospects and earning potential.
Student, Luis Herrera
CTE- Welding
Congratulatory Message & Shout Out!
Luis has helped me with language barriers and never hesitates to offer help to struggling classmates.
Instructor, Mitchel Tenhet
Shane Vang
Congratulatory Message & Shout Out!
Shane Vang is currently a student in Visalia Adult School Vocational Nurse Program. She maintains a GPA of 3.8 or higher in all coursework and ranks in the top 5 percent of her class. Shane is an active participant in the classroom. She contributes to the learning environment by making substantive comments and asking thought-provoking questions. Shane is a highly-skilled, emotionally intelligent natural leader who supports her classmates by participating in study groups. Shane also provides cultural education to her classmates and instructors by presenting and organizing activities during Asian American Pacific Islander Month.
During the most recent presentation, Shane graciously shared with the class, her family’s journey to the United States and the trials and blessings that accompany relocation. Shane also highlighted her mother’s unique skill of creating handmade traditional Hmong clothing. Shane honors her culture and community by educating on cultural considerations when providing superior health care. Despite any life-related obstacles and/or barriers, Shane Vang excels academically while working as a Medical Assistant to support her family. Although there is a financial need, Shane does not qualify for financial assistance. I congratulate Shane Vang as she completes this program and becomes a Licensed Vocational Nurse and continues the legacy of success for her family.
VN Director, Joyce Glaspie
April 2024
Carlos Peñuelas Cervantes
Congratulatory Message & Shout Out!
Carlos came to the US in 2020 on a visa but had to quickly return to Mexico. When he went home, he convinced his family that it was necessary for him to return to the US to learn more and have greater opportunities. It was very difficult for him to leave his family, but they all agreed it was for the best. He returned to the U.S. in 2022. He was very fortunate to have a friend here who helped him immensely. Carlos knew very little English. When he started here at the Adult School, he was in Beginning ESL. The following year he advanced to Intermediate ESL, where he did very well...so well, he moved on to the Advanced class in April. He is also taking the Construction IET class, where he is learning more about what he loves. He is a very polite and kind person, a respectful student, and helper to his fellow students. Carlos holds down a full-time job at a dairy while attending school. He works late evenings-early mornings, but still manages to get here for school - sometimes a little late, but always here most of the time. He even tries to fit in some time for BE homework practice when he can. His goal is to get a job in the construction field. He is well deserving of this recognition.
Instructor, Judy Moxley
English as a Second Language & IET Residential Construction
The ESL Program is great because the áreas where you take tha classes is awesomes and cleans and the teachers everyday asked abaout what learn in the class, everyday you learn something New. And I found information of the school in the internet.
I enjoy that I made new friends and we help each other, too the teachers classes are very fun and They make the classes more easy for learn.
My family in mexico, and my family here and my old life, I don't want my children too have the childhood like me, that is shape me.
Respect over all, for me the most importante is respect, something that make you mind open doors with all the people, and next to the love. When you know love other people, you could have a better life for ever.
I tell always to people that if you want achieve goals you need be perseverant and never give up in your dreams, all in This life It's possible. But the most importan have discipline.
Keep study english second lenguaje because I have a long away for to improve my english, and next to take my GED and go to COS to study Automotriz Technology.
Student, Carlos Peñuelas Cervantes
Rayjean Donice Young
CTE- Vocational Nursing
I am currently enrolled in the VN program at Visalia Adult School. I was encouraged by an old friend and coworker to apply. What I enjoy most about the program is the time we have off for holidays and the summer. These breaks allow us to maintain a sense of normalcy and spend time with our family and work.
My Godmother has had the greatest impact on shaping who I am as a person today. I aspire to one day be as great of a person. I value authenticity and kindness, and I believe these principles will always lead one to success. A few tips I would give to someone who is thinking of attending VAS, would be to: Recognize your support system early, apply for sponsorship, and to surround yourself with like minded people. Sometimes your success is the result of those you surround yourself with. I can see myself furthering my education, and getting my RN license. As of lately, I am considering the idea of teaching in a nursing program.
It is with honor that I recognize Vocational Nurse Student Rayjean Donice Young. Ms. Young has successfully completed 2 of 3 terms and is expected to graduate May 2024 from Visalia Adult School’s Vocational Nursing program. Ms. Young consistently maintains an excellent GPA. Ms. Young currently holds a 3.6 GPA, which is no small feat in nursing school. One of Ms. Young’s strengths are her organizational skills. She displays excellence with organizing her time, projects, assignments and care of patients. She demonstrates nursing clinical skills with ease, comfort and confidence.
In class, Ms. Young is eager and ready to learn. She is diligent in her studies and focused on achieving her goals. In clinical practice, she demonstrates compassion for her patients and works well with hospital staff and other classmates to ensure proper care is given to the patients in her charge. Ms. Young is trustworthy, dependable and kind. Her ability to be professional while still maintaining a nurse-patient relationship far exceeds my expectation for a student nurse. She is a team player, always willing to help when she is needed. As a leader among her class, Ms. Young demonstrates the ability to be diplomatic in all situations. She is courageous, brave and fearless. I have no doubt that Ms. Young will advocate for her future patients. Ms. Rayjean Donice Young is a tremendous asset to the Visalia Adult School’s Vocational Nursing Program. May she may continue to reach for her goals. We need phenomenal future nurses, Ms. Young will be such a nurse.
Instructor, Amanda Musto