Using Independent Study to Build Your Transcript
The Stay-at-Homeschooling Mom Podcast
Does your high school student take courses outside the standard curriculum? In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen explain when outside study belongs on a transcript, what records you should keep, and how to simplify documenting independent study courses. Show Notes: Isn’t homeschooling high school tough enough? Why would anyone want to ADD courses to an already busy schedule? Sometimes, you have a very good reason. Your student may be studying advanced math, taking college classes, pursuing the fine arts, or learning a language outside the standard curriculum. When that happens, you need to know what belongs on a transcript and how to document it. 1. KNOW WHEN RECORDS MATTER Elementary enrichment usually doesn’t need to appear on a transcript. High school credit is different. * Algebra I taken in eighth grade * College or online courses, foreign language study * Fine arts training or courses required by a state or college This is key: If you want high school credit, keep records. 2. CHECK YOUR SCHOOL’S RULES Before designing an outside course, check with your home study school. * Will the course count toward graduation? * Can it replace a required course? * Does it need prior approval? And what documentation will be required? Seton offers an Independent Study approval process for qualifying outside coursework. 3. GET APPROVAL EARLY Don’t assume an outside course will automatically satisfy a graduation requirement. A community college science course, online language class, or other program may be excellent—but your school may have specific requirements. Remember: Approval is much easier to obtain before the course is completed than after. 4. THINK ABOUT THE FUTURE If your student has an idea of where he or she may pursue further education, investigate admission requirements early. Requirements can vary for: * Colleges * Conservatories * State universities * Specialized programs Those requirements may influence the courses your student should take now. 5. RECORD THREE BASIC THINGS A simple course record should include: * Course name * Materials or outside classes used * Grade earned For example: Algebra I — Saxon Algebra I — 92 That may be all you need for a straightforward academic course. 6. DOCUMENTING UNUSUAL COURSES Some courses require more explanation. A fine arts course might include: * Weekly lessons and daily practice * Voice lessons * Choir and theatre rehearsals and performances Include schedules, teacher evaluations, grades, programs, or other evidence when helpful. Hint: Give administrators enough information to understand what your student accomplished. 7. FULL OR HALF CREDIT? As a general rule of thumb: * A full-credit course requires about five hours of coursework per week * A half-credit course may require about three hours per week Keep enough records to show that the course was substantial. 8. KEEP THE FUTURE IN MIND We may homeschool as if our children will always be learning at the kitchen table. They won’t. Eventually, they may: * Apply to college * Enter a conservatory * Transfer schools or pursue other opportunities Finally: A little planning and recordkeeping will simplify your student’s next step. A Final Encouragement Transcripts don’t have to be complicated. Know what your student needs, check requirements early, document outside coursework, and keep good records. You’ll be glad you did. Homeschooling Resources Seton Independent Study A Blank, Fillable Homeschool Transcript Form from Southern Utah University Seton Catalog - Free Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services