homework policy
Homework assignments are a regular and vital component of your child’s education. Some homework is designed for parent participation, while other assignments are to be done independently by the child. The teachers will inform you of the standards and expectations of each assignment. The district’s homework policy regulates the amount of time students should spend on school-related work at home. Generally, daily time spent on homework should be:
- K - 15 minutes
- 1st/2nd - 15-20 minutes
- 3rd - 30 minutes
- 4th/5th - 60 minutes
Teachers attempt to plan assignments that are appropriate for each child. However, we know that all children learn and work at their own pace. If your child is spending more than the recommended time each night on homework (but not wasting time), talk to the teacher and he/she will make modifications. Remember, too, that on any given night you have the authority to stop your child’s labors after the appropriate time, and simply write a note to the teacher explaining that the homework was too difficult for your child.
Homework assignments are held to the same standards as class work. They should be accurate, complete, and neat. Parents should inspect the work before the child turns it in. Your signature on the page assures the teacher that you are aware of the work your child has done. If the work does not meet the teacher’s criteria for acceptable performance, the homework will be returned to your child to be redone.
It is also imperative that your child reads every night for at least 20 minutes. If your child is not reading yet, this would be a great opportunity for you and your child to spend time reading together.
Four ways to help your child improve her or his homework skills:
- Plan dinner and other family events around your child’s homework schedule.
- Make a study corner. Use the same place as a table, couch or chair for helping your child review material before a test.
- Encourage your child to study with other students when appropriate.
- Make a point to look over your child’s finished homework.