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To clear an absence, please email [email protected] or call the attendance office at (661) 294-1188 ext. 408 or 409
Short-Term Independent Study: Learning on the Go!
We encourage all students to attend school regularly as consistent attendance is vital for academic success. However, we understand that sometimes students must be away from school.
Our Short-Term Independent Study (STIS) program is a voluntary option that can help your student keep up with their learning and have their absence excused when they are gone for three or more school days.
When is Short-Term Independent Study an Option?
STIS is designed for absences of three (3) to fifteen (15) consecutive school days per year due to:
- Family emergencies
- Family travel
Important Attendance Note: To qualify as an excused absence under strict California State guidelines, all assigned work must be completed and submitted upon the student's return.
Key Requirements and Limitations
Please keep the following in mind as you consider STIS:
- Minimum Duration: The absence must be for a minimum of three (3) consecutive school days.
- Annual Maximum: A student can use STIS for a cumulative total of no more than fifteen (15) school days per year.
- Semester Cutoff: STIS will not be granted during the last two weeks of each semester.
- Academic Readiness: This option is best suited for students who are responsible, motivated, and can successfully manage their academic work independently while they are away.
- School Discretion: Final availability and approval depend on the mutual agreement of the principal, teacher, parent/guardian, and student.
How to Request Short-Term Independent Study
1. Apply at Least 5 School Days in Advance
Parents/guardians must apply at least five (5) school days before the first day of the planned absence.
- Complete and submit the Request for Short-Term Independent Study form here.
- Submitting the form will prompt your student's school to contact you to continue the process.
2. Contract Approval
- The school will develop a STIS Contract detailing all assignments.
- The contract must be signed and dated by the student, parent/guardian, and teacher.
- Final approval from the site principal (or their designee) is required for the contract to be valid.
3. Complete and Return All Work
- All assigned work is due on the day the student is scheduled to return to the classroom.