Main Menu

Explore More

Portals

Home

RLS2.jpg
FCC5.jpg
Hayes4.jpg
FMS5.jpg
ALC3.jpg
FCC4.jpg
FHSVB.jpg

Welcome to VISTA Education Center

At VISTA Education Center, we are dedicated to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for special education students. As a Federal Setting IV facility, we offer specialized programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of our students, from kindergarten through 12th grade. Our goal is to empower students by valuing their individual talents and abilities, providing personalized educational experiences, and fostering an environment where every student can thrive. We envision a future where every student can thrive.  We envision a future where all students, regardless of their abilities, are equipped with the skills, confidence, and independence they need to achieve their full potential. This setting caters to students with significant disabilities who require intensive, individualized support that cannot be adequately provided in less restrictive environments. Some of the key components of setting IV program includes:

  • Specialized staff, including special education teachers, therapists (speech, occupational, physical), and behavioral specialists who are trained to address complex needs.
  • Access to specialized equipment and materials that support the educational and developmental goals of students with significant disabilities.
  • Higher staff-to-student ratio, allowing for more personalized and intensive support.
  • Structured environments that are crucial for students with severe disabilities, promoting safety and stability.
  • Customized to focus on both academic learning and essential life skills, such as communication, social interaction, and self-care.
  • Emphasis on functional skills prepares students for greater independence.

School News

Asian Club

The second annual Asian Fair was held on May 22. Created and facilitated by members of the Asian Club, the event hosts a variety of stations showcasing Asian culture and activities. This year the fair was held just outside the auditorium allowing more students to attend during their lunch hour.

4th grade class.

Stevenson Elementary champions student empowerment, giving them a voice, the freedom to make choices, and the power to own their learning. Every year, the school focuses on one of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals to take school-wide action.This year, the fourth graders chose to focus on "Good Health and Well-Being."

VISTA Education Center opening fall 2024

The opening of VISTA Education Center is a significant step to address the increased needs of students, reduce long waits in attending Setting IV programs through our member district, and to provide easy and local access for our students and their families. We are excited to announce that the creation of our new Federal Setting IV special education program has been made possible by relocating our high school alternative learning center (ALC) back into the main high school building. This strategic move has freed up valuable space, allowing us to expand our services and better meet the needs of our students and families.

Dr. Cochran and Matthew Engelhardt speak to 4th grade families outside.

One year ago, Fridley fourth grade students were finishing up their last year in elementary school, preparing to enter middle school. In February 2023, students had opportunities to attend a Fifth Grade Parent Night, tour the middle school during the school day in April and attend Fifth Grade Orientation Night in May, giving them one last chance to visit before the school year ended. 

The group of senior athletes.

Twelve dedicated Fridley High School senior athletes committed to playing their sport at the post-secondary level and participated in an athletic signing ceremony on May 22. Families, students, faculty and coaches celebrated each student as they signed a commitment to their future college.

Full group of FHS students who won scholarships.

The 66th Scholastic Achievement Ceremony on May 16 was a celebration of the culmination of academic achievement, athletic accomplishment and philanthropy shown the past four years by Fridley High School seniors. Sponsored by the Fridley Lions, students, families and donors were treated to a banquet dinner before the awards ceremony began. 

School Calendar

School Board Work Session
-
Public Forum
-
Business Meeting
-
RLS PTO Meeting
-
FMS Picture Day
-
MPR