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.

Independent Study Program Staff | Independent Study FAQ (CA Dept. of Education)

Short Term Independent Study

This is an option for students who are going to be unable to attend school for a short period of time (no longer than 10 days).
Parents should request short term independent study from their school of record 5 days prior to the leave date.
The student will receive work from all of their current classes along with a due date.
The student must submit the work by the due date in order to have it assessed by their teachers.

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.