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Why A Blended Learning Model Over 100% Online School?
Not all alternative schools are the same. If you're considering a flexible, student-centered education, you might be looking at Pathways In Education (PIE) or other online schools like Primavera, ASU Prep, etc. in the area—but how do they compare?
Here’s a breakdown of what makes our blended learning model at PIE different and why it might be the best choice for you.
1. Learning Environment: Small, Distraction-Free vs. Online-Focus
|
Feature |
Pathways In Education (PIE) |
100% Online School |
|
Classroom Setup |
Small, distraction-free learning spaces with a blended learning model (a mix of online and in-person learning) |
100% online |
|
In-Person Support |
Available at local learning centers |
No physical locations |
|
One-on-One Help |
Personalized teacher and counselor support |
Only virtual teacher support |
Why This Matters: If you struggle to stay motivated in an online setting or need a quiet, focused space, PIE offers in-person support that online-only schools can’t provide.
2. Flexibility: Custom Schedules vs. Fully Independent Learning
|
Feature |
Pathways In Education (PIE) |
100% Online School |
|
Schedule |
Flexible, customized plans |
Fully self-paced |
|
Teacher Interaction |
Face-to-face + virtual check-ins |
Varies and mostly virtual |
|
Accountability & Structure |
Structured support while allowing flexibility |
Requires self-discipline & time management |
Why This Matters: PIE provides the flexibility students need without losing structure—great for students who want support AND independence.
3. Real-World & Experiential Learning Opportunities
|
Feature |
Pathways In Education (PIE) |
100% Online School |
|
Travel Opportunities |
Yes! Travel internationally and domestically for school credit (Think: Traveling to Rome and that’s getting me closer to graduation!) |
None to limited travel programs |
|
Career & College Support |
In-person guidance for jobs, internships, and college, along with dual-enrollment (earn college credit while in high school) |
Varies and virtual only |
Why This Matters: PIE helps students connect learning to real life—whether that’s through travel, career exploration, or hands-on experiences.
4. Community & Personalized Support
|
Feature |
Pathways In Education (PIE) |
100% Online School |
|
Sense of Community |
Small class sizes, teachers who know you |
Independent learning, fully remote |
|
Student Clubs, Sports, and Events |
In-person gatherings such as student clubs, sports (and compete against other schools), and fun events like prom! |
Limited social interactions |
|
Teacher Accessibility |
Easy access to teachers in person |
Virtual teacher interaction only |
Why This Matters: PIE prioritizes relationships—you’re not just a name on a screen or a number to be collected. Our blended learning with in-person and online support offers opportunities for our students to make friends, build a community, and gain more connections with the people around them.
Our Fully Online Program: Same Support, More Flexibility
For students who prefer to learn from home, Pathways In Education- Arizona's fully online program offers the same personalized support and resources as our blended learning program — the only difference is that students don’t need to attend classes at our centers.
Online students still receive:
✅ One-on-one guidance from teachers and counselors
✅ Access to engaging course materials
✅ Opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities and social events
If online students want to visit a center to connect with peers, attend workshops, or join a club, they’re always welcome! Our goal is to provide flexible learning options without sacrificing support or community.
Next Steps: Thinking About Transferring?
Switching schools can feel like a big step, but PIE makes it easy. Learn more about how to enroll at Pathways in Education here.
About Pathways in Education
Pathways in Education is a network of public charter schools with locations in
We are dedicated to helping students succeed through personalized learning, flexible schedules, and one-on-one support. Our programs are designed to meet students where they are and empower them to achieve their academic and personal goals. Learn more about enrolling at one of our Pathways in Educations schools here.
