INDEPENDENT STUDY
As you may be aware, for the 2021-2022 school year only, SLVUSD students will have two choices: the first is to attend one of our schools (BCE, SLVE, SLVMS, or SLVHS). The second choice is to participate in an Independent Study Program, which is a homeschool-based model. We are fortunate to have SLVUSD CHARTER, which has offered a robust K-12 Independent Study Program for more than 27 years.
Please know that independent study is not the same as distance learning. For the most part, a student on independent study will learn independently, without teacher instruction. There will be significantly less live interaction and synchronous learning than in-person instruction and varies based on the student’s grade level.
- For Transitional Kindergarten through 3rd grade, there will be a plan to provide students opportunities for daily synchronous instruction.
- For grades 4 through 8, there will be a plan to provide opportunities for both daily live interaction and at least weekly synchronous instruction.
- For grades 9 through 12, there will be a plan to provide opportunities for at least weekly synchronous instruction.
Live interaction means interaction between the student and the teacher, aide or other personnel, and may include peers; this interaction may be in person, by internet or phone.
Synchronous instruction means classroom-style instruction, or small group, or one-on-one instruction delivered in person, or by internet or phone, and involving two-way communication between the student and teacher.
Independent study can be a suitable option for some students, but it may not be right for every student. Some students are better served in an educational setting that is classroom-based and offers a smaller learning environment and more individualization. Generally, independent study requires motivation and a strong commitment on the part of the student and, especially for young students, commitment on the part of the parent/guardian.
To enroll in the Independent Study Program for the 2021-2022 school year, there must be an agreement in place for each student. The agreement must be signed by the student’s parent, legal guardian, or caregiver. For students with exceptional needs, the Individualized Education Program (IEP) must specifically provide for independent study before the student can begin participating.
If you are interested in the Independent Study Program for your student(s), or wish to schedule a conference with staff, please contact us at the phone number or e-mail address below:
Christopher Schiermeyer
Superintendent
831-336-5195