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Independent Study

Independent Study (IS)

Independent study (California Education Code [EC] sections 51744–51749.6 Links to an external site.) is an alternative instructional strategy where students work independently under the general supervision of a credentialed teacher, following a written agreement. It aligns with the district-adopted curriculum and graduation requirements, offering flexibility to meet individual student needs, interests, and learning styles.

Key Points to Know About:

  • LEA Requirements: Except for the 2021–22 school year, local educational agencies (LEAs) are not required to offer independent study. LEAs must adopt policies reflecting changes to the EC before enrolling students to receive apportionments.
  • Voluntary Participation: Independent study is a voluntary option chosen by students and parents; students cannot be assigned to it.
  • Eligibility: Any student from transitional kindergarten through grade 12 is eligible for independent study.
  • Written Agreement: The agreement must be signed by the parent, legal guardian, or caregiver (if the student is under 18), the certificated supervising teacher, and all individuals responsible for assisting the student.
    • Short-term: LEAs may secure parent and guardian signatures on written agreements for short-term independent study any time before the end of the school year.
    • Long-term:  LEAs must secure parent and guardian signatures on written agreements prior to the start of long-term independent study
  • Record Keeping: Independent study agreements, work products, and other documentation must be maintained as part of the student's records.
  • Options: There are two types of independent study:
    • Short-term (15 or less school days | Cumulative): Requires a signed agreement within 10 school days of enrollment.
    • Long-term (more than 16 school days | Cumulative): Requires a signed agreement before the start of the independent study.
  • Students with IEPs: Students with an active individualized education plan (IEP) must have their IEP team determine if independent study would be beneficial.
  • Learning Time: The Education Code does not specify a minimum amount of learning time; it is based on work completion. Independent study students are expected to receive an education of comparable quality and time value, not an alternative curriculum.

Helpful Resources:

For questions or assistance, please contact our Child Welfare & Attendance Unit at (526) 922-6233 or cwa@lacoe.edu.