INDEPENDENT STUDY

A Short-Term Independent Study Agreement is an optional instructional alternative that allows students to continue meeting curriculum objectives and fulfilling academic requirements while temporarily away from school. Independent Study is intended for students who will be absent for three (5) or more consecutive school days, but no more than fourteen (15) days, for reasons other than illness or injury.

To qualify as excused absences, all Independent Study Agreements must comply with applicable California State requirements and guidelines.

Students are strongly discouraged from missing school for reasons other than illness. However, we recognize that family emergencies, special events, or other circumstances may occasionally require a student to travel outside the area. In these situations, families may request a Short-Term Independent Study Agreement to help minimize the impact of the absence on the student's academic progress.

1. The Short Term Independent Study Agreement length is for a minimum of three (5) and not to exceed fourteen (15) school days. 

2.  A Short Term Independent Study Agreement is required and must include a written/typed reason for requesting Independent Study.

3.  A Short Term Independent Study Agreement must be requested (via the below Google Form) at least ten school days prior to a planned absence to ensure teachers can prepare materials. 

4. The Union Middle School Independent Study log (available upon completion of the Short Term Independent Study Agreement) must be signed by the parent, student, and teachers and then returned to the office, both completed  prior to the student's departure. 

5. The Independent Study Log specifies the classwork that will need to be turned into the classroom teacher.

6.  A Short Term Independent Study Agreement WILL NOT be issued for the first two weeks or last two weeks of school. 

7.  All assigned work is due five school days from the final day of the independent study contract and shall be graded by appropriately credentialed teachers.  The student must provide evidence of the completed work (a screenshot printout for any online assignment turned in, for example). This due date cannot be extended, even due to illness so the work must be turned-in.

If you would like for your student to participate in Short Term Independent Study, please fill out THIS FORM and follow the directions therein.