SPECIAL PROGRAMS

Independent Study is a student-centered credit-bearing course of study, which is independently designed and pursued by the student. It is a unique and innovative learning option. Because Chariho Regional High School is determined to meet the diverse instructional needs of all students, Independent Study allows students to engage in deep and relevant study aligned to their unique interests and passions. This educational route requires applied and rigorous engagement in authentic learning, which may take place during, before, or after the regular school day; it allows opportunity for study in areas not addressed in the Chariho Regional High School Program of Studies. The Independent Study content must center on “new learning” for the student. While it may perhaps be based on prior knowledge, it primarily is framed around new learning that includes transferable concepts and understandings, rather than simply demonstrating what the student has already mastered.

All requests for Independent Study must be initiated with a Chariho Regional High School counselor and reviewed by the Independent Study Program Coordinator. An approval form, signed by the student, school counselor, Independent Study Coordinator, parent or guardian, mentor, and Assistant Principal must be complete before an Independent Study may begin.

When the Independent Study is complete, the student will present his or her project to a review panel. The Independent Study will be assessed and assigned a grade of pass or fail that will serve as an elective credit. This grade will not influence the student’s GPA or class rank calculations. The credit earned will depend on the scope of the project, including but not limited to, the amount of time a student invests in the project. The credit earned will be determined before the Independent Study begins. Dependent upon the student’s Independent Study topic, the student’s transcript will read as one of following: Independent Study, Independent Study: Arts and Humanities, Independent Study: Career & Technology, or Independent Study: STEM.

For more information about the Independent Study Program and to view the Independent Study Handbook and Application visit: CHS Independent Study Resources Page.

Student internships are voluntary, work-based experiences for high school students that provide an opportunity to explore a career interest or to apply skills learned in a course or program. While internships may be paid or unpaid and may occur before, during, or after the school day; during school vacations; or the summer months, credits will only be awarded after the completion of a successful internship experience, which may include other related activities.

• One-half (.50) elective credit will be awarded after the successful completion of sixty (60) hours.

• One (1) elective credit will be awarded after the successful completion of one-hundred and twenty (120) hours.

• Up to two (2) elective credits may be earned by students toward the fulfillment of graduation requirements.

For more information about the Student Internship Program and to view the Internship Handbook and Application visit: CHS Student Internship Resources Page.