Birmingham Virtual Academy

Independent Study (IS) at Birmingham Virtual Academy (BVA) is a voluntary educational alternative to classroom-based instruction. The program provides flexibility for students while maintaining academic rigor and educational quality equivalent to in-person instruction.

Students enrolled in Independent Study have equal access to all courses, services, and resources offered by BCCHS.

At the time of enrollment in the Independent Study program, parents/guardians are provided with the following materials:

• Independent Study Program Overview (this document)
• Master Written Agreement (MWA)
• Instructions for accessing digital learning platform (Sent via email post enrollment)
• How to access BCCHS student email (IT)
• Policies regarding assignment submission, grading, and attendance (Accelerate Portal)
• Communication expectations and staff contact information
• Information regarding academic and student support services

These materials are provided to ensure parents/guardians have a clear understanding of program requirements, expectations, and available resources.

master written agreement (MA)

The Independent Study program provides:

• Standards-aligned curriculum
• A–G approved courses for graduation and college eligibility
• Instruction equivalent in quality, quantity, and rigor to in-person learning
   

Instruction may include:

• Live (synchronous) teacher-led lessons
• Recorded lessons and digital instruction
• Independent assignments and projects

Labs, essays, and practice activities

Students participate in both:

• Synchronous Instruction (Live): Real-time instruction with teachers
• Asynchronous Instruction: Independent work completed on the student’s schedule
   

Grades 9–12:
Students are offered at least one (1) live instructional session per week.

Students are expected to:

• Engage in learning activities each school day

• Complete and submit assignments on time

• Participate in required instructional activities

Important:

• Assignments will not exceed 20 instructional days between assignment and due date

• Attendance is based on the time value of completed student work, not seat time

This aligns with requirements under California Education Code Section 51747.

Consistent communication is required to support student success:

• Frequency: At least once every five (5) instructional days
• Methods:
  • Virtual meetings (Zoom)
  • Phone calls
  • Email
  • Learning platforms (e.g., Google Classroom)
     
• Response Time:
  Staff will respond within one (1) school day whenever possible
   

Documentation:
All communication is documented and maintained for compliance and student support.

BVA offers optional opportunities to support student learning, including:

• Teacher office hours
• Tutoring and intervention sessions
• Enrichment and review workshops
   

These opportunities are available to all students and are optional. Participation does not replace assigned work used for attendance.

All Independent Study students have access to:

• Credentialed teachers
• Academic counseling
• English Learner (ELD) support
• Special education services (IEP/504)
• Technology (devices and internet access, if needed)

Parents/guardians agree to:

• Support and monitor student learning
• Ensure assignments are completed and submitted

Maintain communication with school staff

Independent Study is voluntary. All students must complete a Master Written Agreement (MWA), which includes:

• Courses of study
• Assignment expectations
• Duration of the agreement
• Required signatures (student, parent/guardian, supervising teacher)
   

Families may request a return to in-person instruction at any time, in accordance with school policies.

📞 Phone: (818) 758–4486

For additional information or to enroll in the Independent Study program, please contact the admission office.