Independent Study Physical Education FAQ
What is Independent Study Physical Education?
BPSD's Independent Study Physical Education (ISPE) is designed for advanced athletes who possess exceptional talent or ability and are involved in rigorous training for competition at a pre-professional or professional level outside of school. This program is a way to individualize a student's educational plan to serve those who would like to consider an alternative to classroom-based physical education. Please note that participation in recreational athletic programs does not meet the eligibility requirements for this program. Additionally, athletic training alone outside of school does not qualify a student for a PE exemption.
How do I know if my student is an advanced athlete?
Your student will be considered eligible for ISPE if they are currently participating in a qualifying sports training academy or program. In addition, if your student-athlete is nationally ranked in a sport, this would qualify them as an “advanced athlete.” Confirmation of acceptance in a qualifying sports training academy for the 2024-25 school year may also suffice for ISPE participation.
Is there a minimum time that my student must be engaged in a sport each day?
Participation in ISPE is a voluntary alternative instructional program that must engage students for a minimum of 400 minutes for every ten school days (weekends not included). Engagement in ISPE includes physical activity, support of personal growth, promotion of healthy living, and physical activity as lifelong goals, and it follows the state’s content standards in physical education. While BPSD has established certain requirements in implementing ISPE, the District and its schools are not responsible for the quality or conditions of instruction conducted off school premises.
Who is eligible to apply for ISPE?
BPSD Students enrolled in grades 7 or 8 may apply for authorization to participate in ISPE to complete state-required physical education if they meet the following criteria:
- The student is enrolled in full-time, in-person instruction at a middle school in BPSD.
- The student maintains a GPA of 2.0 or higher and has no “F” grades.
- The student is involved in rigorous training for competition at a pre-professional or professional level of competition.
- An approved ISPE program must be structured and taught by qualified individuals who are responsible for supervising, documenting, and verifying student participation, progress, and performance. Parents/guardians will not be approved as a supervising coach for their child.
- Students in grade 8 must have received a passing grade in 7th grade PE. Students who have not received a passing grade in their prior year’s PE class are not eligible to participate in ISPE.
- Student attendance in school shall not be affected by enrollment in ISPE. Students shall have daily attendance in the approved program unless excused for a reason acceptable to the school for excused absences.
What is the approval and enrollment process?
- Upon completion and submission of the interest form, the parent/guardian will be contacted by Educational Services. Staff will provide detailed information and assist with completion of the application.
- Applications must be submitted before the start of the school year or the start of a new semester.
- The student and parent/guardian will be notified of approval/denial of the application before the start of the school year or the start of a new semester.
Can students who are enrolled in another public school, charter, or private school enroll in Buena Park's ISPE?
Only students enrolled in BPSD are eligible for Buena Park's ISPE. Students attending school outside the District are welcome to apply for an interdistrict transfer.
When will my student be released from school to participate in their sports program?
Participating students will be released from either the first or last period of the day. ISPE is considered part of the student’s coursework; no other additional course will be scheduled in place of PE. The student may not remain on campus during their designated ISPE period.
Will the District provide transportation to my student’s sports program?
Parents/guardians are responsible for transportation to and from campus based on the adjusted schedule.
Do students enrolled in ISPE receive a letter grade?
Students participating in ISPE will earn a “C” for “Credit” or “NC” for “No Credit” for PE. No letter grade will be issued. Therefore, the Student’s GPA will not be affected.