The Mountain Valley Academy independent study program serves students in grades K-12 on the Ramona Community Campus. Independent study students in all grades may study exclusively at home or take advantage of the on-campus options. The program is provided by means of an independent study enrollment agreement, which is signed and entered into by both parents and students with the Ramona Unified School District. This agreement places a significant responsibility on the family, but can be a very rewarding and successful experience for those who make the commitment. Independent study is an alternative to classroom instruction, but not an alternative curriculum. All course work must meet the California Academic Content Standards. Mountain Valley Academy implements the academic standards within the context of appropriate independent activities. We, the teacher/parent/student team, individualize the curriculum to meet the student’s needs but we do not alter the Academic Content Standards. Mountain Valley Academy blends the best of the classroom and the independent education experiences. Each student’s parents and teacher meet at least every 6 weeks to revise the student's file. This ongoing communication ensures that each student is carefully monitored. As part of an alternative school, the program is available to all students whose families wish to work through independent study, regardless of past academic performance. The program has been found to work as well for students experiencing difficulties, as for students who are gifted and talented. The program is chosen for a variety of reasons: occasionally a student has a hobby or interest which requires some travel; some families prefer an experience which fosters family cohesiveness; some students have learning styles or challenges which require a greater measure of supervision or simply a less stimulating environment. Independent study students are often at an advantage for social opportunities because of the flexibility of their schedules. Students who work and learn together become a community. Mountain Valley Academy students build this sense of community through the many on campus activities including the classroom option, electives, sports, etc. The independent study teacher creates, evaluates and supervises the instruction, for all his students. The teacher provides a wide range of services for parents and students. These include: newsletters, individual tutoring or academic testing as needed, small group tutorials and workshops, parent training seminars, check-out of school and media center books and materials, phone conferences, and appointments. Additionally, parents within the program provide a rich network of human and material resources for each other, resulting in a quality experience through shared community efforts. SERVICES Parents are encouraged to choose any services, which will enhance their student’s experience, but are not obligated to use all of them. The following is a list of some of our most important service features:
