As schools across the nation face mounting challenges—rising absenteeism, disengaged students, and the growing struggle to meet diverse learning needs—many are questioning whether traditional models can keep up. Recent data reveals troubling trends: absenteeism rates have surged by over 20% in some regions, and schools throughout the state are grappling with behavioral issues and a widening gap between student needs and institutional responses.

Against this backdrop, Pivot Charter School Riverside has emerged as a leader in an educational shift that is addressing these challenges head-on. For the past 14 years, Pivot has embraced a hybrid education model that combines the flexibility of remote learning with the optional support of in-person resources. This approach prioritizes personalized education, allowing students to balance academic work with personal commitments and real-world experiences—ultimately boosting engagement and reducing absenteeism.

“Pivot Riverside offers something radically different from the typical classroom experience,” said Jayna Gaskell, Executive Director of Pivot Charter Schools. “Our flex-based learning model lets students design an education tailored to their strengths, interests, and goals. At Pivot, each learner’s path is as unique as they are.”

A Response to Growing Educational Challenges
Schools across the country are encountering a growing disconnect between, one-size-fits-all structures and the evolving demands of students and their families. This disconnect has contributed to rising absenteeism, decreased student engagement, and increasing behavioral challenges as well as social emotional challenges.

According to the Riverside Unified California School dashboard report, traditional schools in the region have experienced a 14.1% increase in absenteeism over the last five years, signaling a critical need for alternative models.

Hybrid models like Pivot’s provide an alternative that addresses these systemic issues. Offering students autonomy, and a tailored curriculum to meet the needs of every student. academic responsibilities with personal pursuits. The result is a learning environment that supports a wide range of student needs, including those who are pursuing extracurricular activities, managing complex life circumstances like homelessness, or facing other unique challenges.

At Pivot, the hybrid model has significantly boosted engagement, resulting in a 3.5% decrease in absenteeism over the past five years and 13.66% fewer absences compared to traditional schools in the region.

Personalized Paths to Success
Pivot’s model is designed to empower students by giving them more control over their education. Through personalized learning plans, students can pursue their passions, and even earn college credits while still in high school. Dual and concurrent enrollment programs offer a head start on higher education while helping students save on tuition costs.

The flexible structure has allowed students to achieve success in ways that would not have been possible in a traditional setting. One student, who had fallen behind academically in a conventional school, was able to accelerate their studies and graduate two years ahead of schedule. Another, pursuing a competitive hockey career, used Pivot’s adaptable schedule to juggle training and academics, ultimately graduating on time.

Leading the Way in Educational Innovation
As traditional educational systems continue to face difficulties adapting to the changing needs of students, hybrid models like Pivot Charter School’s offer a promising solution. By fostering an environment that allows students to balance academic and personal pursuits, Pivot Riverside is redefining what student success can look like.

With its innovative, flexible approach, Pivot provides a blueprint for how schools can evolve to better serve their students. Here, the goal of learning more and struggling less is realized every day. As educational needs continue to change, hybrid models like Pivot’s will likely play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of education.

For more information about Pivot Charter School Riverside and its pioneering approach, visit Pivot Riverside.