RCCD Launches Pilot Partnership with Flo-Ops to Enhance Student Engagement and Success Through Innovative Mobile Technology
06/04/2026
Riverside Community College District launches pilot program by helping distance education students stay connected, engaged, and on track to achieve their educational goals through its partnership with Flo-Ops, an innovative mobile platform designed to centralize academic resources, student support services, and campus life into one easy-to-access application.
Originally launched with RCC Promise Program students, Flo-Ops serves as a digital hub where students can access course information, campus resources, peer support networks, event calendars, and academic assistance; all from their mobile devices. The platform integrates with existing learning management systems, including Canvas, while expanding access to services beyond the classroom.
“Flo-Ops integrates students’ academic life, educational resources, and social experiences into one mobile platform,” said Giovanni Estrada, CEO and founder of Flo-Ops. “Our goal is to improve student retention by helping students feel connected to their campus community, whether they are attending classes in person or online.”
Through the platform, students can view assignments, announcements, discussions, campus events, club activities, tutoring resources, and peer mentor connections. The app also includes an AI-powered assistant that helps students navigate available resources and find answers to common questions.
The partnership has been particularly impactful for Promise students, many of whom are first-generation college students navigating higher education for the first time.
“Student success is built on more than what happens inside the classroom,” said Sharon Walker, Director of Academic Support at RCC. “Flo-Ops helps us meet students where they are by providing immediate access to tutoring, peer mentors, academic resources, and support services. By reducing barriers to information and increasing engagement, we are helping students stay connected and persist toward their educational goals.”
Data collected through the pilot program has shown promising results. RCC has observed increased student engagement and improvements in academic performance among participating students.
“Distance education and hybrid learning environments continue to evolve, and students need tools that foster belonging and connection,” said Shawna BuShell, Ed.D., Dean of Educational Services and Distance Learning. “Flo-Ops complements our existing learning platforms by bringing together the academic, social, and support components of the student experience. We have seen encouraging outcomes through this partnership and remain committed to leveraging innovative solutions that support student achievement.”
Estrada, a first-generation college graduate and former educator, said the platform was inspired by the challenges many students face when trying to navigate multiple systems and resources.
“Students told us they wanted a centralized place where they could access everything they need to succeed,” Estrada said. “Working with RCC has allowed us to demonstrate how technology can create stronger connections between students and the support systems that help them thrive.”
As Riverside City College continues to expand student support initiatives, the partnership with Flo-Ops reflects the college’s commitment to increasing access, engagement, and success for all students.
For more information about Flo-Ops, visit www.flo-ops.com.
Published by External Relations & Strategic Communications