In early July, the state passed laws that require all public schools in California to reopen fully in the 2021-22 school year. There had been allowances made this past school year for schools to operate “distance learning” or “hybrid learning” programs, but the state has discontinued those allowances.
Recognizing that there will be some students with serious health challenges, the state is allowing schools to offer an Independent Study program for students. Independent Study is not distance learning or hybrid learning. Rather, Independent Study provides assignments for students to complete on their own outside of the school environment. There will only be a limited, brief synchronous time with staff and no set schedule for students to follow outside of the scheduled synchronous daily meeting.
We believe that Yu Ming’s in-person model is what is best for students in a dual language immersion program and in person interaction a vital part of their education and community connection. Our program is designed to be in-person and we will be focusing our energies this year on what we do best and the charter model we are required by our authorizer and state to deliver.
With that context, we also understand that some families may not be able to return to school due to a significant medical condition. Therefore, Yu Ming will offer a limited number of Independent Study seats in the 2021-22 school year. Enrollment will involve an application process and be granted based on requirements set forth by the CDE and Yu Ming’s Independent Study Policy. Please complete this survey form today if your child’s health would be put at risk by in-person instruction and you would like to petition for independent study.