A student qualifies for short-term independent study under the following circumstances:
Educational opportunities offered through independent study may include, but are not
limited to: (Education Code 51745)
1. Special assignments extending the content of regular courses of instruction
2. Individualized study in a particular area of interest or in a subject not currently
available in the regular school curriculum
3. Individualized alternative education designed to teach the knowledge and skills of the
core curriculum, but not provided as an alternative curriculum
4. Continuing and special study during travel
5. Volunteer community service activities and leadership opportunities that support and
strengthen student achievement
6. Individualized study for a student whose health, as determined by the student’s
parent/guardian, would be put at risk by in-person instruction or for a student who is
unable to attend in-person instruction due to a quarantine due to exposure to, or
infection with, COVID-19, pursuant to local or state public health guidance
In addition, when requested by the parent/guardian due to an emergency or illness,
independent study may be used on a short-term basis to ensure that the student is
able to maintain academic progress in the student’s regular classes.
No course required for high school graduation shall be offered exclusively through
independent study. (Education Code 51745)
In addition:
Enrollment in independent study is optional, and no pupil may be required to
participate. EC sections 51747(g)(8) and 51747(j)(1); 5 CCR Section 11700(d)(2)(A)