RCCD and Alvord Unified Launch Innovative Onboarding Pilot for Dual Enrollment Students
09/18/2025
Riverside Community College District’s (RCCD) Distance Education department is partnering with Alvord Unified School District (AVUSD) to launch a groundbreaking onboarding program designed to strengthen the success of dual enrollment students.
The pilot program introduces a Google Classroom–based onboarding module, developed by RCCD Distance Education, to prepare students for the transition to Canvas, the learning management system used in college courses. Teachers at AVUSD will guide students through the module in a dedicated “Zero Period” class before the start of their Riverside City College (RCC) courses.
The onboarding covers critical skills for online learning success, including:
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- Navigating Canvas
- Using discussion boards effectively
- Managing time for college-level work
- Completing collaborative assignments
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“This unique approach starts with tools students already know and gradually builds
their confidence in new platforms,” said Shawna BuShell, Ed.D., Dean of Distance Education
and Educational Services at RCCD. “We anticipate this early exposure will improve
both retention and success rates among dual enrollment students.”
The pilot also includes pre- and post-assessments to measure student readiness, along with on-site Canvas tutors during the first two weeks of dual enrollment classes to support both students and teachers. Led by Shawna BuShell, Ed.D. Dean of Distance Education and Educational Services, the project is the result of a close collaboration between RCCD Distance Education, Alvord USD’s Errol Garnett, and RCC Associate Dean of Educational Partnerships Adrienne Grayson, Ed.D.
“We are always looking for ways to set our students up for long-term success. This partnership ensures that when they start their college courses, they’re already familiar with the tools and expectations, which makes a huge difference in their confidence and performance,” explained Errol Garnett, Alvord USD.
“This project is an example of what’s possible when innovative educators work together
across institutions,” said Adrienne Grayson, Ed.D. “We’re not just preparing students
for a class—we’re preparing them for the college experience.”
About RCCD Distance Education
RCCD Distance Education supports faculty and students in online teaching and learning through instructional design, accessibility, and technology integration. The department is committed to equity-focused, student-centered solutions that prepare all learners for success in virtual and hybrid environments.
Published by External Relations & Strategic Communications