Homework Policy

 Teacher Responsibilities

Objectives

   Homework is the extension of learning experiences initiated in and continued beyond the classroom. Concepts taught in the classroom are reinforced through homework. Homework may involve written or study work students do on their own time. It may be a tool whereby parents can participate in the student’s learning experience. The practice of assigning homework is strongly encouraged and supported by the Board of Education.

   The specific objectives of homework may vary at grade levels but generally include these purposes:

•  To extend the concept of learning beyond the classroom

•  To nurture the development of good study habits

•  To encourage the use of independent research skills

•  To promote student independence, responsibility and self-discipline

•  To develop a feeling of accomplishment and a positive self-image

•  To reinforce and enrich learning

•  To provide preparation for subsequent lessons

•  To provide for immediate reinforcement of classroom instruction

•  To provide opportunities for drill and practice

•  To serve as a means of review of classroom work

•  To provide the teacher with an ongoing assessment of student progress

Responsibilities for Achieving Objectives

Principal responsibilities:

•  Oversees the implementation of the District’s homework policy

•  Interprets that policy to students, teachers and parents

•  Individualizes the policy according to the needs of the school

Teacher Responsibilities:

•  Informs students and parents of the District’s policy as well as informing them of the teacher’s own guidelines

•  Provides meaningful tasks that enrich and supplement work introduced during class time

•  Strives to individualize assignments where necessary

•  Guides students in completing assignments within time limits

•  Evaluates and provides feedback on assigned homework

•  Initiates communication with parents when appropriate

•  Realizes that extenuating circumstances occasionally arise preventing the completion of homework

Parent Responsibilities:

•  Establishes with the student a specific agreement concerning an appropriate time and place to complete homework

•  Helps the student work within the mutually established routine

•  Provides an appropriate physical and psychological climate in which to complete homework

•  Monitors, but does not do the child’s homework

•  Initiates communication with the teacher when appropriate

•  Notifies the school and requests home assignments in the event of prolonged illness

Student Responsibilities:

•  Completes assigned work on time and to the best of the student’s ability

•  Assumes responsibility for making up work when absent

•  Communicates with the teacher when extenuating circumstances prevent the completion of assigned homework

•  Selects school activities and schedules outside employment to allow for successful completion of homework

Counselor Responsibilities:

•  Serves as liaison, as needed, among student, teacher and parent

•  Helps the student and his/her parents to establish priorities and realistic goals

•  Upon request, provides information to aid in monitoring a student’s homework

•  Seeks an opportunity for selected students to participate in a study skills group

Guidelines for Homework Assignments: