Policy 2470P - Self-Directed Learner Procedures

Procedure 2470P: Self-Directed Learner (SDL) Procedures

Purpose 

RISE Charter School provides students the opportunity to be designated as a Self-Directed Learner (SDL) to allow individualized learning that supports mastery of grade-level content and progress toward postsecondary and personal goals. 

Eligibility Criteria 

To be designated as an SDL, a student must meet all of the following: 

  1. Mastery of Content Knowledge 
  • Demonstrates mastery of all core subjects at their grade level through grades, assessments, or a mastery-based portfolio. 
  1. Academic Growth 
  • Demonstrates overall academic growth per school year, measured by standardized assessments (e.g., NWEA, ISAT) or equivalent measures. 
  1. Timeliness, Motivation, and Goal-Setting 
  • Demonstrates the ability to complete assignments on time, be self-motivated, and to set goals, as attested by at least one teacher. 
  1. Basic Math Skills (Grades 5+) 
  • Mastery of addition and multiplication for numbers 0–10 and related subtraction/division problems. Students in grades K–4 are exempt. 
  1. Age-Appropriate Learning Outcomes 
  • Meets expectations for learning appropriate to their grade level. 
  1. Postsecondary and Career Goals (Grades 8+) 
  • Maintains an up-to-date Career Pathway or Student Learning Plan as defined in I.C. 33-1001(30). 
  • Demonstrates progress toward postsecondary goals through coursework, extended learning opportunities, advanced opportunities, challenging courses, or online courses. 
  1. Personal Life Goals (Grades 8+) 
  • Provides a student-written description of self-determined personal life goals. 
  • Explains how attending specific classes or participating in learning activities will support both postsecondary and personal life goals. 

Note: Additional criteria may be determined by RISE Charter School as needed. 

Application Process 

  • The SDL designation may be requested by the student, parent/guardian, or teacher. 
  • The request must include: 
  1. Parent/guardian permission if the student is under 18. 
  2. Teacher recommendation attesting that SDL designation is appropriate and beneficial. 
  3. A description of the exemptions from standard instruction practices and requirements sought for the student, including who will supervise the student if absent from the standard classroom. 
  4. Explanation of how the requested flexibility supports mastery of grade-level content and progress toward postsecondary and personal goals. 
  • Applications must be submitted to the Executive Director or designee at least 10 days prior to the beginning of the semester (deadline may be waived at the Executive Director’s discretion). 
  • The Executive Director or designee will review applications and make a decision within 10 days of receipt. Additional information may be requested and must be provided within one week. 

Maintenance of SDL Status 

Students must: 

  1. Continue to master grade-level content and demonstrate academic growth. 
  2. Comply with school rules, except for any exemptions granted. 
  3. Submit regular updates (quarterly) documenting: 
  • Progress toward grade-level mastery 
  • Progress toward postsecondary goals (Grades 8+) 
  • Progress toward personal life goals (Grades 8+) 

Ending SDL Status 

SDL designation may be rescinded if the student: 

  • Fails to meet eligibility criteria. 
  • Fails to complete assignments in the agreed timeframe. 
  • Fails to comply with the SDL plan. 

SDL status may also be voluntarily terminated by the student or parent at the end of a quarter, semester, or school year. 

Supervision: 
The Executive Director or designee will supervise the SDL program, monitor academic progress, and ensure students meet the criteria described in the SDL request. 

 

Policy History: 

Adopted on: December 15, 2025 
Revised on: 
Reviewed on: