Frequently Asked. Questions – Long Term Independent Study
Still have questions?
We’d love to talk with you. Contact our LTIS teacher to schedule a conversation, learn more about the program, or see if Long-Term Independent Study is the right fit for your family.
About the Program
What is Long-Term Independent Study?
Long-Term Independent Study (LTIS) is a public school program that allows students to learn primarily at home and in the community while remaining enrolled at Redwood Coast Montessori. Families partner with a credentialed teacher to create an individualized learning plan, and students receive ongoing guidance, support, and accountability throughout the school year.
Students participate in daily learning, regular teacher check-ins, online lessons, and meaningful educational experiences while completing district-approved coursework aligned with California standards.
How is LTIS different from homeschooling?
Although learning takes place at home, LTIS is not the same as traditional homeschooling.
In our program, students remain enrolled in Redwood Coast Montessori, a tuition-free public charter school. Families receive curriculum, instructional support, and ongoing guidance from a California credentialed teacher who partners with parents throughout the year.
In traditional homeschooling, parents assume full responsibility for selecting curriculum, planning instruction, maintaining records, and ensuring educational progress without support from a public school.
How is LTIS different from traditional school?
Instead of attending a classroom each day, students learn in a variety of settings, including home, outdoor environments, libraries, museums, and the community.
Families enjoy greater flexibility while still benefiting from the support of a credentialed teacher. Students follow an individualized learning plan, attend regular check-ins and online lessons, and demonstrate progress through completed assignments, projects, and other learning activities.
What makes your program Montessori?
Redwood Coast Montessori’s Long-Term Independent Study program is grounded in the Montessori philosophy that children learn best when they are engaged, curious, and empowered to take ownership of their education.
Our curriculum follows a progression similar to our in-person Montessori classrooms while allowing flexibility to meet each student’s individual needs. Learning emphasizes independence, hands-on experiences, real-world connections, and opportunities to explore personal interests; all with the guidance of a credentialed teacher and the support of parents.
Who teaches my child?
Each student is assigned a California credentialed teacher who partners with the family throughout the school year.
Your teacher will:
- Develop an individualized learning plan
- Provide curriculum and instructional guidance
- Monitor academic progress
- Meet regularly with your student
- Offer feedback, encouragement, and support
- Ensure the program meets California independent study requirements
Parents serve as the primary learning coach by supporting daily lessons, encouraging consistent work habits, and communicating regularly with the teacher.
What grades do you serve?
We currently serve students in grades 4–8. Additional grades may become available, dependent on interest and staffing.
Is this a free public school program?Yes. Redwood Coast Montessori is a tuition-free public charter school. Families receive teacher support, curriculum, and educational resources at no cost.
Learning
What curriculum do you use?
Our curriculum is rooted in Montessori philosophy and practices while meeting California state standards. Rather than relying on a single curriculum, we draw from a variety of high-quality resources to create a learning plan that reflects each student’s strengths, interests, and goals.
Can learning be personalized?
Absolutely! Personalization is one of the greatest strengths of Long-Term Independent Study.
Just as in our Montessori classrooms, students progress at their own pace. Our credentialed teacher works closely with families to develop an individualized learning plan that provides both structure and flexibility while supporting each child’s academic, social, and developmental growth.
Can my child work ahead?
Yes. Students are encouraged to move forward when they demonstrate readiness and mastery of a concept.
Our teacher continually monitors progress and partners with families to provide appropriately challenging learning experiences that keep students engaged and growing.
What if my child needs extra support?
Every child learns differently, and we’re here to help.
If a student needs additional academic support, the teacher will work with the family to identify challenges and develop strategies for success. This may include individualized instruction, modified learning plans, more frequent check-ins, intervention services, or collaboration with our Student Support Team when appropriate.
How much schoolwork is expected each day?
Independent study is a full-time educational program. Students engage in learning that is equivalent to a traditional school day while enjoying greater flexibility in how and when that learning takes place.
Most elementary and middle school students spend approximately 3–5 hours each day engaged in meaningful learning activities, depending on age, pace, and the nature of the work. Learning includes direct instruction, independent practice, reading, projects, outdoor exploration, physical activity, and other educational experiences.
What does a typical school day look like?
Every family creates a schedule that works best for them. One of the benefits of Long-Term Independent Study is the flexibility to build learning naturally into your day.
A sample day might include:
Morning
Breakfast and morning routines
Household responsibilities and self-care
Daily online lesson
Montessori work cycle focused on math, language, writing, and cultural studies
Midday
Lunch
Outdoor play, movement, or physical education
Afternoon
Science or History projects
Community-based learning or enrichment
Independent reading
Creative activities, music, art, or practical life experiences
No two families have the same schedule, and that’s okay. Learning can happen at home, outdoors, in museums, libraries, parks, or throughout the community.
How is progress measured?
Student progress is measured in a variety of ways rather than through a single test or grade.
We consider:
- Student work samples and projects
- Demonstration of mastery of learning objectives
- Teacher observations and regular check-ins
- Student portfolios
- Goal setting and reflection
- Assignment completion and participation
- State and local assessments, when required
This comprehensive approach allows us to celebrate growth while ensuring students continue making progress toward California academic standards.
Do students take state assessments?
Yes. As students in a California public charter school, LTIS students participate in the same state assessments required of students attending traditional public schools.
Enrollment
Who is eligible?
Students entering grades 4–8 are eligible to enroll in our Long-Term Independent Study program at this time. We plan to expand to other grade levels as staffing becomes available.
Can students enroll at any time?
Yes. Students may enroll throughout the school year when space is available. Because relationships, routines, and individualized learning plans take time to develop, we encourage families to view LTIS as a year-long educational partnership whenever possible.
How do I apply?
Complete our Intent to Enroll form and indicate “Long-Term Independent Study” as your preferred program. Our staff will then contact you to discuss whether LTIS is the right fit for your family and guide you through the enrollment process.
Can we switch back to classroom learning later?Yes. If your family’s needs change, students may transfer back to our in-person program if space is available in the appropriate grade level.
Special Education
Can students with an IEP enroll?
Yes. Students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) are welcome to enroll in LTIS when the IEP Team determines that independent study is an appropriate placement and documents this decision in the student’s IEP.
How are special education services provided?
Special education services are individualized based on each student’s IEP and may include:
- In-person services at a school site
- Live virtual instruction or therapy sessions
- Consultation and collaboration with families
- Specialized academic instruction and related services as appropriate
Our goal is to ensure every student receives the support outlined in their IEP while participating successfully in the LTIS program.
What if my child has a 504 Plan?
Students with a 504 Plan may participate in LTIS. Before enrollment, the 504 Team reviews the student’s accommodations to ensure they can be effectively provided within the independent study setting.
Can my child return to a traditional classroom if our needs change?
Yes. We understand that families’ needs may evolve over time. If LTIS is no longer the best fit, students may transition to our in-person program when space is available. Our goal is to help every child learn in the environment where they can be most successful.
Social Opportunities
Will my child have opportunities to make friends?
Absolutely! Building connections is an important part of our LTIS program. Students have regular opportunities to interact with peers through physical education activities, field trips, presentations/exhibitions, enrichment opportunities, and school-wide events.
Are there field trips?
Yes! Throughout the year, students are invited to participate in educational field trips that extend learning beyond the classroom and encourage exploration of our local community.
Can students participate in school events?
Yes! LTIS students and their families are welcome to participate in the same school-wide events and community celebrations as our in-person students.
Can students participate in sports?
Yes! LTIS students are eligible to participate in the same sports teams and extracurricular athletic opportunities offered to our in-person students.
Technology
Do students receive a Chromebook?
Yes. Each student may be issued a school Chromebook to access Google Classroom, online lessons, and other educational resources.
Do we need internet access?
Yes. Reliable internet access is needed for online lessons, teacher meetings, and accessing assignments through Google Classroom.
What online programs do students use?
Google Classroom serves as the primary online learning platform. Depending on each student’s learning plan, teachers may also recommend additional educational programs and digital resources.
Can work be completed offline?
Yes! While some activities require internet access, many assignments, projects, and hands-on learning experiences can be completed offline. We strive to provide flexibility while meeting program requirements.
Parent Role
How involved do parents need to be?
Parents are the heart of our Long-Term Independent Study program.
As the primary learning coach, parents support daily learning, encourage consistent routines, help students stay organized, and communicate regularly with the teacher. Our credentialed teacher provides planning, guidance, and accountability, while families make learning come alive each day.
Can another adult supervise learning?
Yes. Grandparents, caregivers, or another trusted adult may assist with daily learning activities.
However, the parent or legal guardian remains the primary educational partner with the school and is responsible for communication, required documentation, and ensuring the student’s educational program is completed.
Teacher Support
How often do we meet with our teacher?
Students benefit from regular contact with their teacher throughout the week, including:
- Daily online lessons
- At least one individual in-person meeting each week
- Additional virtual support as needed
- Optional enrichment activities, community gatherings, field trips, and physical education opportunities
These regular interactions help build relationships, monitor progress, answer questions, and celebrate student growth.
How do teachers communicate with families?
We believe strong communication is essential to student success. Teachers stay connected through email, phone calls, text messages, virtual meetings, and in-person conferences. Families are encouraged to reach out whenever questions arise; we’re here to partner with you throughout the learning journey.
What happens if we fall behind?
Learning isn’t always a straight path, and that’s okay.
If a student begins to fall behind, the teacher will work closely with the family to identify challenges and create a plan for success. This may include adjusting goals, providing additional resources, increasing teacher support, or connecting families with additional school services. Our focus is always on helping students regain confidence and continue moving forward.
How quickly can we get help?
You’re never expected to navigate independent study on your own.
Families can contact their teacher by phone, email, text, or virtual meeting throughout the school week. We strive to respond promptly so that questions can be addressed before they become obstacles to learning.
Still have questions?
We’d love to talk with you. Contact our LTIS teacher to schedule a conversation, learn more about the program, or see if Long-Term Independent Study is the right fit for your family.
