(1) Do students get less of an education in independent study?

No.   Students receive their education in a different setting in a different manner. Independent study students still must pass all requirements and competencies as any other student. All coursework is aligned with the district goals and objectives. Independent study is a strategy, not a program.

(2) Are independent study students considered full-time students?

Yes.   Students receiving their education via independent study are full-time if they complete all assignments for the week. Attendance is determined by the work produced, not time in school. Generally, a student is assigned a minimum of 25 hours of coursework to be completed each week. Should a student fail to complete the assignments, they may lose their full-time status.

(3) Do independent study students retain their rights as a student at their resident school?

Yes.   All independent study students, are considered students at their school of residence. They may participate in athletics, if eligible, attend activities, be included in the yearbook, etc.

(4) Can an independent study student graduate with their friends at their resident school?

Yes.   As stated above, a student earning a diploma while on independent study will retain all rights at the resident school. They may attend the prom, senior activities, and participate in the graduation ceremony. The diploma will be a regular high school diploma from their resident school. Remember, only the educational delivery is different through independent study. The outcomes are the same as students in a traditional program are achieving.

(5) Who is eligible for independent study?

The qualifications for independent study are a desire to work hard, work independently, and receive assistance from someone in the home. Students who do best in independent study are those who like to read and are motivated to do schoolwork in an alternative setting. Students with significant reading difficulties, language acquisition challenges, or a lack of motivation will best be served in other programs tailored to their individual needs.

Reasons for acceptance into independent study are extremely varied. The most common reasons are negative peer pressures, inability to cope with the large campus, personal or family medical reasons, employment, teen pregnancy/teen parenting, a desire to train or study in an area not offered in the regular program, deficient in credits toward graduation, etc. Avoidance of the 15 day attendance policy is not an acceptable reason.

(6) How does a student get into independent study?

Acceptance into independent study begins with a conference with either the students’ counselor or vice-principal. If the counselor or vice-principal feels that the student meets the qualifications listed above they will assist the student and family through the application process. Applications are reviewed by a site placement committee that will make the final determination as to acceptability.