Independent Study - AB130
On July 9, 2021, Governor Gavin Newsom signed the budget trailer bill, AB 130, into law. AB 130 amends section 51745 of the education code to state that for the 2021-22 school year only, the governing board of a school district or county office of education shall offer independent study to meet the educational needs of pupils. AB 130 requires that LEAs create policies and procedures for independent study programs.
Independent study curriculum must now include live interaction and synchronous learning in varying amounts, depending on the students grade levels. LEAs must adopt and implement policies for independent study that reflect amended section 51747’s new requirements, which include tiered reengagement strategies, metrics for satisfactory progress, curriculum aligned standards, and a plan to transition pupils who wish to return to in-person instruction within five school days.
Independent study must provide for daily interactions and at least weekly synchronous instruction for grades 7 to 8 and at least weekly synchronous instruction for grades 9 to 12. Live interaction and synchronous instruction may take place in-person or through internet or telephonic means.
Independent Study Option (AB 130)
For the 2021-2022 school year, schools are required to offer an independent study option to be made available to students whose health would be put at risk by in-person instruction, as determined by their parent or guardian.
Enrolling, Disenrolling & Re-Enrolling
If the parent determines that they would like to pursue Independent Study, they can begin the enrollment process by contacting the Central Enrollment Center here:
Students who are enrolled in Independent Study and who would like to return to in-person instruction, must follow the procedure for disenrolling. Once disenrolled, students will have an opportunity to re enroll, adhering to the re-enrollment process.
Daily Live and Synchronous Instruction for Independent Studies
Independent Study provides instruction based on the state-adopted content standards by certificated teachers. There are specific requirements for instructional time that may include both synchronous and asynchronous work. These expectations will also be outlined in the students’ written Learning Agreement, which must be signed prior to enrollment in an independent study program.
- “Live interaction” means interaction between the student and school staff, and may include peers. Live interaction is provided for the purpose of maintaining school connectedness. This interaction may take place in person or in the form of internet or telephonic communication.
- “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.
Grades 4 to 8 - 60 minutes/week
Both daily live interaction and at least weekly synchronous instruction for all students throughout the school year.
Grades 9 to 12 - 60 minutes/week
At least weekly synchronous instruction for all students throughout the school year.
Special Education:
Students may be eligible for the Independent Study Program under AB 130. Each student’s IEP will have to reflect team approval before the student can be eligible. If the Team agrees, it must be noted that transportation services are not available.