Short Term Independent Study

While it is optimal for students to attend school regularly, there are times when family and life events require a student to miss school days. Short-Term Independent Study agreements (STIS) can provide students with an opportunity to maintain their academic work if they are going to be out of school for one (1) or more days not to exceed fifteen (15) cumulative days per school year. 

Short-term Independent Study contract forms: English, Spanish

Each student needs their own agreement. Forms are also available at your school office and must be submitted to the school office. 


A Short-Term Independent Study (STIS):

  • allows students to obtain their school work 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 accurately, does not negatively impact a student’s attendance record, as days missed will be classified as excused absences.

  • allows our District to retain critical funding for providing instruction while the student is away.
     

A student may qualify for a Short-Term Independent Study (STIS) if the following conditions are met:

  1. Should be requested prior to the planned absence to ensure teachers can prepare materials

  2. Must be approved by the school administration before the student leaves on independent study.

  3. Length is not to exceed fifteen (15) school days, cumulative per school year. If the student is absent beyond 20 consecutive days and you have not communicated with the school office, the student will be dropped from school. A space will not be retained in your child’s school or class.

  4. If the leave exceeds 15 days (or the balance available to the student) and you have communicated with the school office, your student will be marked unexcused for the number of days exceeding the limit.

  5. Include a written reason for requesting Short Term Independent Study.

  6. No Individual with exceptional needs, as defined in Education Code 56026, may participate in Short Term Independent Study unless a student's individualized education program specifically provides for such participation. Meaning that students with an Individualized Education Plan need to have approval from the IEP team in writing for the student to be able to participate in STIS. 

  7. The assigned work must be completed and returned the day the student returns or the agreed upon return date (as stated in the contract), whichever comes first. If the assigned work is not returned on time as explained, the student will not receive any attendance credit (per California Education Code).

  8. Both student and parent MUST sign the agreement. They must pick up or receive digital assignments as Independent Study begins. 

A Short-Term Independent Study (STIS) agreement is required and must be signed in accordance with Ed Code when the student leaves on Short Term Independent Study. The contract must specify the amount of work to be completed, the amount of time to be spent each day, when the work will be turned in to the school and how the work will be evaluated. After the forms are submitted you will be contacted by your school office and teacher. 

If you have any questions regarding Short Term Independent Study, please contact your school office.