Independent Study
Independent Study is an alternative educational option that allows students to complete coursework outside of the traditional classroom setting. This program provides flexibility for students who need to be absent from school for an extended period while maintaining their academic progress.
Important: Participation in Independent Study is always voluntary. Students and families choose this option—the district cannot require participation. Students have the right to return to regular classroom instruction at any time.
Short-Term Independent Study
Short-term Independent Study is available for students who will experience an extended absence from classes for a period of 1 to 3 weeks. This program allows students to continue their education and keep up with coursework during planned absences.
Common Reasons for Short-Term Independent Study:
- Family travel or vacations
- Medical appointments or treatments
- Family obligations
- Other personal circumstances requiring an extended absence
How to Apply
Each school manages Independent Study on a site-by-site basis, with oversight from the District Student Services Office to ensure Board Policy compliance.
To apply for Independent Study:
- Contact your school office manager as soon as you know about the planned absence
- Discuss your specific situation and school policies
- Complete the Independent Study application and contract
- Attend a meeting with the Independent Study teacher to review expectations and receive assignments
Planning Ahead: Please contact your school as early as possible before the planned absence to allow time for approval and preparation of materials.
Upcoming Events
Eligibility Requirements
Approval for Independent Study is based on several criteria:
- Student can work independently
Evidence that the student has the skills and motivation to complete work without direct supervision - Commitment to complete the program
Evidence that the student will follow through with all assignments - Teacher availability
A certificated classroom teacher must be available with adequate time to supervise the student effectively
- Valid reason for requesting
An acceptable explanation for needing Independent Study - Special Education considerations
Students with Individual Education Programs (IEPs) may only participate if their IEP specifically provides for Independent Study enrollment (Education Code 56026) - Available space
When the program reaches capacity, students will be placed on a waiting list and accepted on a first-come, first-served basis
Program Details
According to Board Policy 51747 for Short-Term School-Based Independent Study, the following is the maximum time allowed between when work is assigned and when it must be completed:
- Grades K-3: Up to four weeks
- Grades 4-6: Up to four weeks
- Grades 7-8: Up to four weeks
- Grades 9-12: Up to four weeks
Progress Monitoring
Students are expected to complete all assigned work according to the agreed-upon schedule. If a student misses assignments, the school will evaluate whether Independent Study remains appropriate:
- Grades K-3: Two weeks of missed assignments triggers review
- Grades 4-6: Two weeks of missed assignments triggers review
- Grades 7-8: Two weeks of missed assignments triggers review
- Grades 9-12: Two weeks of missed assignments triggers review
If it is determined that Independent Study is not in the student's best interest, they will return to the regular school program.
Questions?
For specific school policies, application procedures, and program details, please contact your school's office manager.
District Student Services Office provides guidance and oversight to ensure Board Policy is correctly administered at each site.
Dir. Student Support Services
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