Principal Responsibilities

· Maintain an atmosphere conducive to learning and one in which homework is an integral part of the learning process.

· Orient the staff to the district guidelines for homework and research supporting “best practices.”

· Support communications between home and school related to homework policy.

· Ensure that homework policies are consistent with school and district policies.

· Ensure that the school homework policy is correctly implemented.

Time Allotments

Suggested time frames for homework:

K - 2 10 - 20 minutes per night

3 - 4 30 - 60 minutes per night

· Guidelines do not include the 15 - 20 minutes per night that each child on all grade levels is encouraged to read daily.

· These times are approximate. Each individual student’s pace should be taken into consideration.

· When students do not complete class work in the time allowed, they may be required to complete the work at home. This work will not be included in the time allotment guidelines.

Homework Purpose

The purpose of homework is to provide a link between home and school, increase student achievement, expand curriculum, and encourage student self -discipline, independence and responsibility. Well-managed and well-designed homework can significantly increase teacher understanding of what students are learning.

Parent Responsibilities

· Provide a suitable study area that is comfortable, free from distraction and reserved for that student alone.

· Check to determine that all assignments are complete and participate in assignments which call for active parental involvement.

· Communicate with the teacher and the school program through calls, visits, and participation on school committees. Monitor the daily agenda that comes home for assignments, both long-term and short-term.

· Express interest when children talk about school and assist in balancing school work with other activities.

· Communicate with teachers if assignments appear to cause continuing problems. Arrange to secure assignments during a period of excused absence.

· Assist only as needed, encourage your child to complete homework on his/her own as much as possible.

Teacher Responsibilities

· Assignments should be clearly defined during the school day. Directions should include what is to be done, why and how it is to be completed.

· Teachers should suggest appropriate study strategies and assign only beneficial homework. Assign make-up work when deemed necessary after an excused absence.

· Communicate the benefits of homework assignments to parents/guardians.

· Vary homework assignments in order to use a number of skills and to encourage independent work as well as parental involvement.

· Provide feedback to students in a timely manner.

· When team teaching is utilized, teachers coordinate allotments to keep within the time allotments.

· Be aware of outside obligations.

Tusculum

Elementary

Homework Policy 2006-2007

Student Responsibilities

· The student will listen to all directions concerning homework assignments and seek further explanation if needed.

· Students will record assignments in their agenda.

· Set aside a time to work on assignments in a quiet, uninterrupted area.

· All work will reflect high standards including quality and completeness.