Short Term Independent Study

A Short Term Independent Study Agreement is an optional alternative instructional strategy by which students may reach curriculum objectives and fulfill promotional requirements. An Independent Study Agreement is a means of individualizing the educational plan for students who are going to be out of school for three (3) or more consecutive days not to exceed fourteen (14) for reasons other than illness or injury. Independent Study Contracts must meet strict California State guidelines in order to result in excused absences. Please note that students are highly discouraged from missing school for reasons other than illness; however, it is acknowledged that family emergencies or special events sometimes necessitate travel out of the area.

1.  The Short Term Independent Study Agreement length is for a minimum of three (3) and not to exceed fourteen (14) 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.