Board hears first reading of independent‑study policy changes tied to SB 153
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Summary
Assistant superintendent Dr. Dina Richter presented a first read of revised Board Policy 6158 to align the district's independent‑study rules with Senate Bill 153 (2024), including ADA counting from a student's first day, adjusted short/long‑term day thresholds and required documentation of instructional minutes.
The San Marino Unified Board of Education received a first reading Jan. 14 of proposed amendments to Board Policy 6158 (Independent Study) to bring district practice into alignment with Senate Bill 153 (2024).
Dr. Dina Richter, presenting the item, said the updated state rules change when average daily attendance (ADA) is counted and adjust program thresholds. “Average daily attendance…is counted from a student's first day of independent study,” she said, describing a revision from the previous three‑day rule. She outlined changes to short‑term and long‑term independent‑study definitions and documentation requirements for synchronous and asynchronous instruction.
Why it matters: districts must follow SB 153 to maintain ADA funding and to meet state program rules. The revisions affect how attendance is recorded and how much documentation teachers and principals must keep.
Key points from the first read
- ADA: Attendance may be counted from the student’s first day of independent study under the new law; the district noted this change. - Short vs. long term: Short‑term independent study was increased to 15 days or fewer (from 14), and long‑term was increased to 16 days or more (from 15). - Agreements and documentation: Dr. Richter recommended maintaining written learning agreements signed before short‑term independent study begins when possible; long‑term agreements must be signed before the student’s participation. The district must document each half‑hour (or fraction) of student work and synchronous engagement, and it may use computer programs that log participation. - Minimum minutes: The draft policy lists minimum instructional minutes per school day by grade span (TK–3: 180; 4–8: 230; 9–12: 240).
Board member and student questions focused on special education and program oversight. Dr. Richter said IEP teams must convene to determine whether independent study is an appropriate placement for students receiving specialized services.
The item was a first read; staff will return with a recommendation for approval at a subsequent meeting.
