In recognition that some students can learn best in settings other than conventional classrooms, this program offers an independent and flexible study arrangement. All courses are taught via the independent study method, with many taught through the Cyber High online program. Students do not attend daily classes. Instead, each student meets with an instructor one-to-one, or in a small group, at a pre-arranged time and place each week. The instructor assigns course work, which is to be completed by the student on his/her own time. The completed work is evaluated by the instructor at the next meeting. It is the responsibility of the student and parent to ensure the student attends this appointment and has all of his/her work completed every week.

1. To offer students who cannot attend the comprehensive high school the opportunity to complete their high school education. 

2. To offer students a program of personalized instruction to meet their varying needs and ability levels.

3. To offer students classes and activities which will enable them to increase their general knowledge and assist them in the development of self-discipline and self-confidence.

4. To help students set and attain personal, academic, and career goals.

5. To enrich the lives of the individual students served, and thereby enrich the community life as well.

6. Students may enroll concurrently at Columbia College and earn high school and college credits at same time. 

To enroll in Bret Harte Independent study, a student must first contact an administrator. The administrator will advise the student of the appropriate steps to apply for admission. The assigned teacher will contact students accepted for enrollment. Students who do not complete their assignments or who miss appointments will be dropped from the school in order to make room for students waiting for an opportunity to enroll.

Independent Study students may enroll concurrently at Columbia College and earn high school and college credits at the same time. To participate in this program, students must: 

1. Apply to and be accepted by Columbia College.

2. Be registered in one or more college classes while being enrolled in Bret Harte Independent Study.

3. Complete a concurrent release form each semester.

Students in this program will have their Columbia College registration fees waived!