The Nevada City School of the Arts Independent Study at Home Program is designed to support families who choose to homeschool while offering students access to a creative, arts-integrated learning environment and a vibrant school community.
Rooted in NCSA’s philosophy that the arts are essential to a well-rounded education, the Independent Study at Home Program provides academic enrichment alongside visual arts, music, movement, and project-based learning. Students benefit from meaningful social interaction, guided instruction, and creative exploration—while families retain the flexibility and autonomy of home education.
Program Overview
Our Independent Study Program is a unique opportunity to learn at home by offering structured in-person support, led by experienced educators using NCSA’s state standards aligned curriculum. Our program emphasizes creativity, curiosity, and social-emotional development. Weekly enrichment supports student engagement and allows educators to meet students where they are academically and developmentally.
Curriculum
Reading – Lexia® Core5® – Built on the science of reading, Lexia® Core5® Reading is a research-proven program that accelerates the development of literacy skills for students of all abilities, helping them make the critical shift from learning to read to reading to learn.
Math – Coming Soon! Currently in the adoption phase.
Science – Mystery Science Standards-alignment guides for California , engaging investigations, phenomena-driven, written & 3D assessments
Writing – Simplify Writing
Teacher created social studies lessons
*All lessons can be on-line or paper based.
Arts & Enrichment
Weekly arts enrichment is at the heart of the NCSA Independent Study Program. Students participate in social emotional learning, science, visual arts, music, and movement experiences that are both integrated into academic learning and offered as stand-alone classes. Local artists and educators bring their expertise into the classroom.
Social Connection & Emotional Growth
The Independent Study at Home Program offers students consistent opportunities to build friendships, collaborate with peers, and develop social-emotional skills in a supportive environment. Respect, empathy, and self-expression are woven into learning experiences, helping students grow with confidence and care for others.
Enrollment & Lottery
Enrollment in the NCSA Independent Study at Home Program is determined by a public lottery. Families may apply during the annual lottery window, typically open from November through April. Available seats are filled through the lottery, and students not selected may be placed on a waitlist.
Please note: Enrollment in the Independent Study at Home Program is separate from NCSA’s full-time program and does not provide priority or preference for admission into the full-time NCSA program.
Grade Levels & Capacity
The Homeschool Program offers:
- 24 spots for grades K–3
- 24 spots for grades 4–8
Family Partnership
Families are active partners in the Independent Study at Home Program. Collaboration between educators and caregivers supports student success, and families are encouraged to participate in school life through communication, involvement, and community engagement.
