Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that selecting the right independent study program for your child is your top priority, and it is ours too. That’s why we’ve pulled together the questions most frequently asked by our new parents to help you choose the education that is right for your child.

Have another question that isn’t covered here? Please contact us and a member of our staff will get back to you shortly. You may even see your question featured here in the future!

About Our School

Is Independence Charter Academy accredited?

ICA is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and operates under the Helendale School District.

Does the student need to come to Helendale to complete work?

No, although the student will be enrolled in the school located in Helendale, all work and materials are done online in a virtual academic environment.

Can a student earn college credit at Independence Charter Academy?

Yes! We work with community colleges and act as a College Level Examination Program (CLEP) testing center to present an additional method for our students to earn college credit before they graduate; our goal is for students to earn an Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree around the same time they receive their high school diploma.

Independent Study

Can all students in California participate in independent study?

Independence Charter Academy is a charter school authorized by Helendale School District in San Bernardino county. Students must be located in San Bernardino county or in a contiguous county in order to enroll with ICA (Inyo, Kern, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside only)

Is Independent Study right for my student?

Largely, success in independent study requires motivation and a strong commitment on the part of the student and, especially for a young student, their parents, guardians, or caregivers. It also requires sufficient academic preparation to enable the student to work independently.

Does my child need to be at grade level to enroll at Independence Charter Academy?

No, Independence Charter Academy can serve students at any learning level.

Learning Environment

What does the learning environment resemble at Independence Charter Academy?

For many students, independent study is the educational option that enables them to most fully realize their potential. ICA’s instructional strategy offers the flexibility to meet individual student needs, interests, and styles of learning and meet the same educational objectives as all students in traditional California schools.

What type of teachers work at Independence Charter Academy?

All teachers in our learning environment are fully credentialed by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing in various subject matter areas.

How is the teacher-student interaction process at Independence Charter Academy?

Our students have access to their teacher, counselor, and principal 24 hours a day, seven days a week throughout the academic year.

How is your method of instruction delivered to the student?

Classes are offered online and student-teacher and student-to-student interactions occur virtually in online meeting rooms, message boards, phone calls, video calls, and emails.