Independent Study:

Frequently Asked Questions

(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 by the time in school.  Generally, he/she 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, and attend school functions such as the prom and senior activities.

(4.)  Can an Independent Study student graduate with his/her friends at their resident school?

Yes.  Students who complete required credits and competency exams while in Independent Study will be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony at their school of residence.  Their graduation diploma will be a regular diploma which will be issued by their school of residence.

(5.)  Who is eligible for Independent Study?

The qualifications for Independent Study are a desire to work hard, being a self-motivated learner, and being able to work independently.  A student’s success is greatly enhanced by having someone in the home who can provide direct assistance if needed.  Students with significant reading difficulties, language acquisition challenges, or a lack of motivation will be best served in other programs tailored to their individual needs.  Reasons for acceptance in Independent Study are extremely varied. Avoidance of the attendance policy is NOT an acceptable reason.