Principal's Message
Welcome to the 2026–27 school year at Banning Independent Study School (BISS).
At BISS, we partner with students to help them be successful in an independent study environment. Many students find they thrive with the additional flexibility independent study provides, including access to online classes and virtual appointments with teachers. Our passion is to offer these students access to a rigorous, meaningful curriculum and support to find their path to success.
Students at BISS can participate in electives, Career Technical Education (CTE) courses, and sports teams at the traditional schools in our District. Additionally, for high school students, Coombs Alternative Education offers a traveling sports program where students can earn up to 2.5 credits in P.E. or elective credit for each of the four sports offered throughout the year. At Coombs, our sports teams participate in home and away games with other alternative schools in the Serrano League.
Furthermore, students at BISS can enroll in our Barbering CTE program, join Link Crew, visit the Wellness Center, or attend music, art, and STEM classes at Coombs. These programs help engage students in school, promote future-ready leadership skills, and foster the development of teamwork.
Every Wednesday is an early release day, providing our teachers with valuable collaboration and professional development time. Attendance in independent study is earned by satisfactorily completing assignments and attending weekly appointments. Independent study is a privilege, not a right. By law, students who do not regularly complete assignments or who fail to attend scheduled appointments may not remain in independent study and may be required to return to a traditional school setting.
Please contact the office or your child's teacher with any questions.
We look forward to welcoming our students back to campus for a successful new school year.
Sincerely,
Melissa Lee D.C.
Principal
Banning Independent Study School - Coombs Alternative Education Center