Attendance in a public school is one of three ways for a student to meet the requirement of compulsory education; attendance in a private school or receiving education from a tutor are the other two available alternatives.
Tutors
If a parent chooses to engage a tutor for a child, the tutor must posses a valid California Teaching Credential. Tutoring must be provided for a minimum of three hours per day, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., for 175 days per year. The tutoring must include the curriculum areas covered in the public school and must meet other requirements of the law.
Independent Study
School districts may (but are not required to) offer independent study programs. In these situations the student first enrolls in the public school, and then enters into a mutually agreeable contract with the district to complete required work. Such students are counted in the district's enrollment, generate revenue for the district, may receive materials, resources and support from the district, have their performance evaluated and, ultimately, can receive a diploma from the district.
Private Schools
Private school affidavits may be accessed at http://www.cde.ca.gov/privateschools
Contact Person
Dr. Sylvia Key - Administrator, Child, Youth and Family Services
Phone - (650) 802-5314
Fax - (650) 802-5322
E-mail: skey@smcoe.k12.ca.us