Independent Study Program

Grades 11 & 12 Only

The academic independent study program provides an opportunity for students in grades 11 and 12 to obtain academic credit for learning acquired through an individualized program of study under periodic guidance by a faculty advisory. Each teacher is allowed to advise one Academic Independent Study. Exceptions have to be approved by the administration. All independent studies will be considered Level II courses unless a member of the Administrative staff approves the course at a higher level.

Guidelines:

1. Students who wish to participate in an academic independent study program must initiate the request with the teacher. It is the right of the teacher to determine whether or not he/she will advise such a program. The principal gives final approval for an academic independent study program.

2. The student and advising teacher will develop a contract for the program. The contract will include detailed courses outcomes, goals of the program, the projected amount of credit expected, due dates, and methods of evaluation.

3. At no time will the number of credits to be earned exceed 5 credits for any student for independent studies in an academic year. Independent Study credits are determined by supervised hours of time in the student's course schedule. Credit for the course will be granted only after successful completion of the program.

4. All proposals for an Academic Independent Study Program must be submitted on or before June 15, 2015 for consideration for the following school year. A template is available in the Guidance office and on the Guidance web page.

5. An Academic Independent Study may not be taken in lieu of a required course. The following criteria is considered when a student registers for an Academic Independent Study:

  • The course must be taken when the student is a junior or a senior.
  • The student must be in good academic standing (3.0 minimum GPA) and at the time of the request they must have an acceptable attendance and behavior record.
  • The student must demonstrate how the academic independent study course will benefit him/her in his/her future.
  • The course outcomes must be designed to meet the guidelines in the Hopkins Academy Statement of Purpose, along with the school and department exit outcomes.
  • The student must complete and present a final project to the advising teacher.
  • The student must be scheduled during the period designated for the Academic Independent Study. 

Independent Study Contract