Independent Study Program

INDEPENDENT STUDY PROGRAM

Independent study is a different way of learning. In independent study, a student is guided by a teacher but usually does not take classes with other students every day. The student works independently.

School districts cannot force students into independent study programs; students and parents choose this type of study on their own. Independent study programs are designed to help students who have health problems, are parents, are gifted, are working, or who find that regular classroom settings do not meet their needs.

There are two types of independent study available to District students – “long term” or “short term”.

Independent Study Board Policy 6158 MUSD EducatEveryWhere - Independent Study / Virtual Pathway
(Board updated and approved 8/24/21)

Short Term Independent Study

The second option, is short term independent study (no more than 14 cumulative days in a school year) which has the following process and procedures: When requested by a parent/guardian due to an emergency, vacation, or illness, independent study may be used on a short-term basis to ensure that the student is able to maintain academic progress in his/her regular classes. (cf. 5113 - Absences and Excuses)
For more detailed information please refer to our 2024-2025 Parent/Student Handbook

Long Term Independent Study

This is a voluntary program. (At the secondary level, It is possible for student to request a blended schedule that includes online IS coursework with some traditional classes at their school site.)
Parents/students interested in this option should consider the following questions:
- Is there evidence the student can work alone?
- Is the student responsible for independent assignments (does he/she currently complete homework)?
- Can the student commit to attend weekly meetings at the Independent Study classroom (1331 E. Calaveras Blvd)?
- Does the student have access to a computer/internet/space at home to complete their schoolwork?

If you have answered no to any of the above questions, please discuss this option with your school site counselor, administrator, or the independent study teachers to determine if this is the best educational choice for your student.

Parents and students should request this option directly from their school site through the counseling office.
Students who are eligible will be referred to the Independent Study Program by their school counselor/administrator through an online referral system.
Students and Parents are required to attend an entry meeting at the Independent Study classroom with their student’s assigned Independent Studies Teacher and sign a Master Agreement.
Students are required to attend IS meetings a minimum of one hour a week (to be scheduled with your assigned teacher).
Attendance is based on the number of assignments completed by the student each week (not in-seat attendance).
Students who are out of compliance (not completing assignments or missing two consecutive IS meetings without notice) will be dropped from the IS program and returned to their school of record.