Short-Term Independent Study is used when a student will be absent for a brief, defined period, typically due to travel, short-term illness, or other temporary circumstances not requiring medical placement.

This option is appropriate when the student is able to complete work independently and maintain pace with their class.

Instructional Requirements by Grade Span

In grades TK through 3, instruction must prioritize foundational literacy and numeracy, with daily assignments aligned to core instruction and verified by the teacher of record.

In grades 4 through 8, students must be provided standards-aligned work across core content areas, with clear expectations for completion and teacher feedback upon return.

In grades 9 through 12, coursework must align to course credit requirements. Assignments must be sufficient to demonstrate progress toward course completion, with grading determined by the teacher of record.

Long-Term Independent Study is used when a student requires an extended absence from the traditional school setting but is still capable of engaging in a structured instructional program independently.

This option is appropriate when the student can manage assignments over time and when a more robust instructional model than HHI is needed.

Instructional Requirements by Grade Span

In grades TK through 3, instruction must include daily teacher interaction, structured literacy and math instruction, and ongoing progress monitoring to ensure foundational skill development.

In grades 4 through 8, students must receive a daily comprehensive program including all core subjects, with scheduled teacher check-ins, feedback cycles, and documented work completion.

In grades 9 through 12, students must be enrolled in a full course load aligned to graduation requirements. Coursework must include measurable outputs sufficient for awarding credit, with regular teacher contact and assessment.

Home and Hospital Instruction is a short-term placement for students with a temporary medical condition that prevents school attendance. This placement requires physician verification and must include a defined expected return date.  HHI is designed to maintain continuity of instruction, not to replicate a full school program.  

Instructional Requirements by Grade Span  

In grades TK through 3, instruction must focus on maintaining progress in reading, writing, and mathematics, with an emphasis on essential standards.  In grades 4 through 8, instruction must prioritize core subjects, particularly English language arts and mathematics, with limited coverage of additional subjects as feasible.  In grades 9 through 12, instruction must focus on maintaining progress in credit-bearing courses, with priority given to graduation requirements.  Across all grade spans, HHI is limited to one hour of instruction per day, not to exceed five hours per week, with each hour equivalent to one day of ADA.

Home Instruction is a placement determined by the IEP team for students whose medical or emotional condition prevents attendance in any school setting for an extended period.  This is not the same as HHI. It is a special education placement and is not subject to the same hourly limitations.  

Instructional Requirements by Grade Span  

In grades TK through 3, instruction must be individualized to address both academic and developmental needs, with services aligned to IEP goals.  In grades 4 through 8, instruction must include all core academic areas, with accommodations and modifications as outlined in the IEP, along with any related services.  In grades 9 through 12, instruction must support progress toward graduation requirements, including credit-bearing coursework, with services and supports defined by the IEP.  Across all grade spans, instructional time is determined by the IEP team based on student need and is not limited to one hour per day.