The way in which independent study is delivered depends on the grade level of the student. 1st grade through 8th grade students meet one hour a week with the teacher. A parent must attend with the child during each weekly meeting. In this model, parents are acting in the capacity of a home school teacher and work cooperatively with the certificated teacher. For students enrolled in 9th through 12th grades, students meet for two hours a week with a certificated teacher in small groups. Parents are not required to attend with the student but are required to commit to supervising the completion of the weekly assignments.
Grades and Attendance
Students' grades are based on weekly school work assignments, projects, tests and quizzes. Attendance is based on the time value of the work completed and is closely monitored to meet the Education Code requirements for independent study. Students who do not complete the weekly assignments or fail to attend their monitoring appointments two times will be reviewed by the coordinator and may be returned to their home school as per the Education Code and Board Policy.
Special Education
RSP services are available for students who qualify for enrollment in independent study. An IEP must be held prior to referral to independent study with an ALC staff member in attendance as part of the IEP team to determine that independent study is an appropriate placement.
Length of Program
Students in 1st through 8th grades are allowed to continue in independent study each year based on availability of space, adherence to independent study guidelines, and academic success. Students in high school (grades 9 - 12) can remain enrolled in independent study for up to 1 school year working toward meeting their high school diploma requirements. Additional years are allowed based on student success during the previous school year and at staff discretion.
Tutoring
Tutoring is typically available five days a week to answer questions and work with students in small groups. Tutoring times vary, so please check the schedule. There is always a teacher available from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. to assist students as necessary.
Weekly Appointments
Students' weekly appointments are scheduled five days a week between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. as space is available.
Weekly appointment times that meet the families' personal requests are accommodated if slots are available. Students will be required, throughout the year, to attend times other than their primary appointment time due to holidays and California state testing requirements. Prior notification is given regarding these changes.