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Is Independent Study Right for my Child?

Generally, success in independent study requires motivation and a strong commitment on the part of the student and for most students, requires the support of parents, guardians, or caregivers. It also requires sufficient academic preparation to enable the student to work independently. It is an important 

In general, students who experience success in independent study:

  • Have the desire and motivation to work independently

  • Manage their time effectively

  • Take ownership of their learning 

  • Understand how to monitor their learning progress

  • Communicate with their teachers regularly and are responsive to communication

  • Keep themselves accountable for their in-person meetings with their teacher 

  • Keep themselves accountable for course due dates. 

Independent study serves a broad range of students, including:

  • Gifted and talented students who are pursuing interests outside of school and need flexibility in their schedules.

  • Students who face particular challenges—such as health issues or the need to work—that make classroom attendance difficult.

  • Students who, for a variety of reasons, have fallen behind in their studies and need an individualized approach to fill in gaps in their learning or make up credits.

  • Students who want an individualized approach that allows them to delve more deeply into areas of special interest.

  • Students for whom independent study matches their learning style with individual and small group instruction and supervision by an independent study teacher.

Our Core Values

Monte Vista Independent Study Schoolwide Learning Outcomes 

Students at Monte Vista Independent Study are in a 21st century independent study learning environment, using digital tools to engage with their grade-level content, with their teachers, and peers. Students will demonstrate evidence of engagement during their time at Monte Vista, with a focus on our C.L.I.M.B. values to produce the following Schoolwide Learning Outcomes (SLOs).

C.L.I.M.B. values

Collaboration

Students who:

  • communicate about their learning with their supervising teacher.

  • ask questions and are curious about subjects.

  • participate in shared discussions with their supervising teacher and peers.

Leadership

Students who:

  • take the lead in their independent studies.

  • manage their time efficiently.

  • can make informed decisions about their learning.

Integrity

Students who:

  • use technology resources appropriately to aid in their learning.

  • demonstrate honesty in words and actions.

  • show integrity in their academic work.

Motivation

Students who:

  • are able to work independently. 

  • make an effort to progress towards their learning goals. 

  • have a growth mindset while at Monte Vista Independent Study School

Belonging

Students who:

  • are aware of their strengths and weaknesses.

  • take risks to get involved in the Monte Vista Community.

  • make connections with teachers and peers.