The purpose of assigning homework is to give students the opportunity to extend lessons, practice skills, engage in critical thinking and develop good work habits. Homework can also serve as one form of communication between the teacher and the family. It is important that homework does not add stress to family life. Therefore, it is up to the student, family, and teacher to share the responsibilities for homework. Homework is an important part of each student’s academic year. Homework includes reading every night as we help each student develop the habit of being a lifelong reader. Written assignments over the course of a week may include a balance of assignments in other content areas such as writing, spelling, math, social studies, science, and long-term projects.

Student’s Responsibilities:

• To understand all homework assignments by listening to directions, asking questions when something is unclear, and reading directions.

• To gather all materials necessary to complete assignments before leaving the classroom.

• To complete all assignments to the best of his/her ability

• To return materials and assignments on time

• To make up any missed homework that the teacher requires

Family’s Responsibilities:

• To provide a routine and environment that is conducive to doing homework (i.e. a quiet and consistent place and time, necessary materials, etc.)

• To help the student, but not do the actual homework.

• To check that your child has edited his/her homework for spelling (Kindergarten and First Graders may use approximated spelling as appropriate), punctuation, neatness, etc.

• To notify the teacher when homework presents a problem.

• To read school notices and respond in a timely manner. School notices will travel home in the student’s school folder for students and be posted online. Upper grade children will record their homework using their notebooks or as indicated by their classroom teacher. Regular backpack clean-ups can be useful helping students to organize their materials.

• Parent signatures are recommended.

Teacher’s Responsibilities:

• To provide purposeful homework everyday

• To provide clear directions and instructions

• To implement a system for routinely checking homework and providing written feedback to your child at a minimum of one time per week

• To communicate to the student and family what is expected for completing homework successfully.

• To communicate with families when students are not consistently completing assignments.