Byron USD currently offers independent study programs through the Byron Institute of Independent Study and Short-Term Independent Study (STIS).

The Byron Institute of Independent Study is considered the district’s long term independent study option. 

Short-Term Independent Study

While it is optimal for students to attend school regularly, there are times when family and life events (emergency, vacation, or illness) require a student to miss school days. Short-Term Independent Study can provide students with an opportunity to maintain their academic work for short periods of time.

Short term independent study is completely voluntary and at the discretion of the parent/guardian. This is a courtesy the district may offer to accommodate unexcused absences, but it is not mandatory.

A Short-Term Independent Study Agreement:

• allows students to obtain their schoolwork prior to their missed days, complete their work during their absence, and return to school without the stress of catching up as well as keeping up with current work.

• when completed successfully, absences do not negatively impact a student’s attendance record, as days missed will be classified as excused absences.

• ensures our District will retain critical funding for providing instruction while the student is away.

How Short-Term Independent Study Works:

Short-Term Independent Study is available, upon request, for students who will be absent for a minimum of one (1) school day. Short Term Independent Study may be used up to 15 cumulative school days per school year. Absences beyond the 15 cumulative days or occurring after the 15 day limit has been reached will result in the absences being considered unexcused. Independent study for absences of 16 days or more is offered through BIIS.

It is recommended that requests for participation in Short-Term Independent Study be made at least 10 school days prior to the first date of planned absence to ensure teachers can prepare materials, assignments and instructions. In the event of an emergency, illness, or there is less than 10 days prior to the absence; contact the school principal for arrangements.

Prior to going on independent study, the student will be provided with coursework that will account for the days the student will be absent.  All assigned coursework is due on the Date of the student’s return from Short-Term Independent Study, as listed on the Master Agreement. No Exceptions.

By successfully completing and returning assigned work with satisfactory progress, the student will maintain a clear attendance record. If the student’s work is unsatisfactory, or incomplete, the school can only grant excused days of absence for the amount of satisfactory work returned. The additional days of absence will be considered unexcused and will count towards truancy limits.

Failure to fully meet the requirements of the Master Agreement may result in future Short Term Independent Study requests being denied. 

Eligibility For Short Term Independent Study:

There are some situations when short-term independent study requests cannot be made, including, but not limited to:

• Students whose achievement is below grade level standards.

• Students referred to SARB.

• Students who have previously been granted Short-Term Independent Study and have failed to complete the agreement are not eligible for any subsequent Short-Term Independent Study agreements.

• Students with longer term illness requiring Home Hospital Services.

• Pursuant to CA Ed Code 48915 & 48917, students who are suspended or expelled may participate in Independent Study only if the student is offered the alternative of classroom instruction.

How to Apply for Short Term Independent Study:

1. Contact their student’s school office.

2. Complete the Request and Master Agreement Form and submit the completed documents to the School Office. It recommended that requests are submitted at least 10 school days prior to the first date of expected absence. In the event of an emergency, illness, or there is less than 10 days prior to the absence; contact the school principal for arrangements.

3. The Request and Master Agreement will be reviewed by the Principal for approval. The School will provide notification if Short-Term Independent Study is Approved.

4. If approved, the Teacher(s) will compile the student’s coursework/assignments and provide assignment information on the Assignment Log. The Student will receive the Assignment Log and coursework on the last day of attendance prior to the beginning date of the Agreement.  

5. Upon the first day of the student’s return, all assignments and the Assignment Log must be turned in. No Exceptions.
   

NOTE: The Short Term Independent Study Master Agreements must be signed by all parties for absences to be excused (Education Code 46300, 51747).