Opportunities for Independent Study :
Alzar School does not offer every class a sophomore or junior in high school may want or need to take in a given semester . Due to our small class sizes and faculty , we are not in a position to teach electives or other classes outside our offered curriculum . If students need an alternative class , they may seek out an opportunity for Independent Study , with various credit and curricular options . Most students that opt for Independent Study do so with the cooperation and supervision of a teacher from their sending schools . Sending schools often develop a list of objectives , a timeline , and assign readings , assignments , and assessments . An Alzar School teacher acts as a ‘ mentor ’ for the student , checking in to make sure he or she is on track with the Independent Study ( about once a week when on campus ). While students are supported , it is ultimately their responsibility to engage in and complete an Independent Study successfully . While Independent Study is an option , it is strongly discouraged , unless absolutely necessary for curricular alignment . It is not recommended as a way to earn more credits in a semester .
Students at Alzar School are extremely challenged and engaged throughout their semester , both through the rigorous academic course load of seven classes , as well as the additional opportunities in leadership development , cultural immersion , and outdoor expeditions . By choosing to attend Alzar School , students invest in the rich immersive environment that an expeditionary learning model offers . We strongly feel that taking additional classes , including Independent Study , detracts from the overall experience a student has at Alzar School .
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