FAQ's

1. What is a "satellite" classroom?

All ISP's, public or private, consider the home where the student receives instruction to be a "satellite classroom" of that school.

2. What do tuition fees cover?

The annual tuition fee covers one year enrollment in the Branson Academy Inc K-12 Independent Study Program including total records maintenance, the K-12 Instructional Package, and on-going year-round support and assistance. Separate fees are charged for copies of transcripts, high school diplomas and credit tracking reports, and the Design-It-For-Me Home Study.

3. What are support services?

We have included as much information as possible in our K-12 Instructional Package to help you provide the best educational experience possible for your child. If you need additional information, guidance, or encouragement, our free online Q & A e-mail service provides you with year-round experience, information, and answers.

Other services include: our online resource page of web links for home education, and school I.D.'s and work permits, as needed.

4. What are portfolio records? Why are they required?

A portfolio file includes the best work of your student for the semester/year in several subject areas. We are accountable to the State to determine compliance of "instruction in the various branches of study." You are accountable to us in helping us make this determination. This is also your "back-up" hard copy if ever it is needed. When your child graduates or transfers out of our program, you will have a complete portfolio record of his/her progress.

5. What about legal services?

Your child is enrolled in a private school registered with the State of California and using an Independent Study Program, just the same as if you were enrolled in your local school district's ISP. However, you may still encounter nosy, disgruntled, or non-supportive family members or neighbors. Avoid the term "homeschooling" with such individuals. Clearly state that you are using an Independent Study Program through Branson Academy, Inc. If you have any difficulties with local officials, please refer them to Branson Academy, Inc. for records verification and then contact your legal defense representative.

We strongly encourage membership in HSLDA or another legal defense organization. Our experience over the past couple decades shows clearly that the tides of political whim ebb and flow. Joining legal support organizations, as well as your state home education organizations, expands and strengthens the base of support for the home education community. Branson Academy member families may join HSLDA and receive full membership benefits. A membership discount will be available when there is a sufficient base group.

6. Can my child complete more than one grade level in one year? Can my child take more than one year to complete one grade level?

Absolutely. One of the great benefits of an Independent Study Program is that a student can progress at his/her own pace.

7. What about early graduation?

Branson Academy offers early high school graduation through our Accelerated Program. This program allows a student to receive credit for high school level courses taken during the 7th & 8th grades. (Complete information about this program is in the Branson Academy K-12 Instructional Package.)

If you have further questions, please e-mail us at: info@bransonacademy.net.