FSUSD is proud to offer Independent Study Programs
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For families who would prefer an alternative to the traditional setting, FSUSD offers a rigorous, flexible, and no-cost option for academic success in its Independent Study program.
Families interested in participating in a long-term independent study program for students in TK - 8th grade will enroll in the Virtual Academy of Fairfield-Suisun. Families with students in the 9th - 12th grade program will access the independent study program through their local high school.
How does it work?
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Upon the request of the parent/guardian of a student, before making a decision about enrolling or disenrolling in independent study and entering into a written agreement to do so, the district shall conduct a telephone, videoconference, or in-person student-parent-educator conference or other meeting during which the student, parent/guardian, or their advocate may ask questions about the educational options, including which curriculum offerings and nonacademic supports will be available to the student in independent study.The Superintendent or designee shall develop a plan to transition students whose families wish to return to in-person instruction from independent study expeditiously, and, in no case later, than five instructional days. This requirement only applies to students participating in an independent study program for 15 school days or more. A student will be able to return to their resident school unless the enrollment at that school is impacted, in which case the student will be assigned to another FSUSD school.Parents can enroll or disenroll from Independent Study at anytime.
9-12 Grade: Long Term Independent Study FAQs
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Is there a deadline to apply for Long Term Independent Study?
No, there is not a deadline to apply. A family can make a request for their child to attend Long Term Independent Study at any point in the school year.
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Can a student be concurrently enrolled in their home school?
Yes, a student can be concurrently enrolled in up to two courses at their home school while enrolled in four courses in Long Term Independent Study.
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Do students need to reapply each year?
Yes, families must reapply at the end of each year if they want to continue in Long Term Independent Study the following school year.
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How often does a student’s progress get reviewed while on Long Term Independent Study?
Supervising teachers will review student progress on the expectations outlined in Board Policy and the Written agreement at least twice per month. If a student is not meeting the outlined expectations, the following tiered re-engagement steps will occur.
- Verification of current contact information
- Notification to the student and/or parent/guardian of lack of participation within one school day of the absence or lack of participation
- Staff will conduct a home visit to determine pupil need, including connection with health and social services as necessary
- If the student does not re-engage, the supervising teacher will schedule a student-teacher conference in order to develop a formal plan to support the student becoming re-engaged. The conference will include a review of the pupil’s written agreement and reconsider the independent study program’s impact on the pupil’s achievement and well-being, consistent with the policies adopted pursuant to paragraph (4) subdivision (d) of Board Policy 6158.
If the steps do not result in the student becoming re-engaged in the learning, the student will need to return to in-person instruction.
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How often do students get feedback on their work?
Students will receive formal feedback on their work weekly during their check in meeting with their teacher.
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If a student needs extra support, is it available?
Yes, if a student needs additional support he/she/they are able to reach out to their assigned teacher via email or phone and receive additional guidance. Additional 1:1 meeting time can be scheduled.
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What is the grading window for students?
Students accessing the Long Term Independent Study program follow the same grading window as our middle schools and high schools. Each student will receive two progress report marks each semester and one final grade each semester for each course they are enrolled in.
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Can a student with an IEP be on Long Term Independent Study?
A student with disabilities, as defined in Education Code 56026, shall not participate in independent study unless the student's individualized education program specifically provides for such participation. (Education Code 51745) A temporarily disabled student shall not receive individual instruction pursuant to Education Code 48206.3 by means of independent study. (Education Code 51745)
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If my son/daughter has Honors or Advanced Placement courses in their schedule, is that offered on Long Term Independent Study?
Students will have access to all courses offered for graduation and approved by the University of California or the California State University under the “a-g” admissions requirements.
Students can also be concurrently enrolled at the comprehensive site and attend their Honor or Advanced Placement courses in person.
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How soon does a student need to start in Long Term Independent Study after an application is received?
Families who enroll in Independent Study will be able to access the program within 15 days of the request.
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Are there limits to when a student can leave Long Term Independent Study?
Upon request from the parent/guardian, a child can return to in-person instruction no later than five instructional days from the parent/guardian request. A student will be able to return to their resident school unless the enrollment at that school is impacted.
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Students who are concurrently enrolled can they be a TA as one of their classes?
Yes, a student can take up to two classes on the comprehensive site.
