Gretchen Higgins Elementary School

Independent Study

Dixon Unified School District offers an independent study option for students. While enrolled in Independent Study, students complete assigned work and assessments that are consistent with state and district standards.

Independent Study Eligibility

  • Participation is voluntary and optional. There are no fees associated with participation.
  • A student participating in independent study must be a resident of the county or an adjacent county. Full-time independent study shall not be available to students whose district residency status is based on their parent/guardian’s employment within district boundaries pursuant to Education Code 48204. (Education Code 46300.2, 51747.3)
  • 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)

The program is structured as follows:

Grades 6-12:
Student will have contact with staff at least 1 time per school week, as prescribed below:

  • Student will virtually participate in a minimum of 30 minutes of weekly synchronous instruction (once a week).
  • Instruction and assignments will be delivered and submitted via Edmentum.
  • Time and manner of daily live interaction to be determined by the independent study teacher/staff.
  • Student will complete independent work, as assigned by the independent study teacher via Edmentum, under the supervision of the parent/guardian.

Definitions

Live interaction means interaction between the student and classified or certificated staff, and may include peers, provided for the purpose of maintaining school connectedness, including, but not limited to, wellness checks, progress monitoring, provision of services, and instruction. This interaction may take place in person, or in the form of Internet or telephonic communication. (Education Code 51745.5)

Synchronous instruction means classroom-style instruction or designated small group or one-on-one instruction delivered in person, or in the form of Internet or telephonic communications, and involving live two-way communication between the teacher and student. Synchronous instruction shall be provided by the teacher of record for that student pursuant to Education Code 51747.5. (Education Code 51745.5)