Montair Elementary

 

Elementary School

 

1. Reading is an integral part of learning. In the primary grades (K-3) homework will consist primarily of reading and a limited number of independent exercises to reinforce previously taught basic skills.

2. Except for reading, homework at the elementary level shall not be assigned over weekends or holidays.

3. At the upper grades (4-5), homework consists of completing, practicing, preparing, or extending core academic skills and is designed to build independent study habits.

4. Below are the time limits for elementary homework:

K-1 no more than 30 minutes of homework per night (reading included)

2-3 no more than 45 minutes of homework per night (reading included)

4-5 no more than 60 minutes of homework per night (reading included)

5. Project-based assignments are designed to reinforce Common Core State Standards that promote collaboration and independent thinking. Project-based assignments shall primarily be undertaken and completed in the classroom. Long-term assignments and projects that require work outside of the classroom shall be limited in number and duration. Some portions of projects may be assigned as homework, however, these tasks should not require significant assistance from parents or the purchase of materials. Long-term assignments and projects shall include clear checkpoints to monitor progress toward completion. Group projects that require work outside of the classroom shall not require meeting in person.

 

 

Responsibilities

 

Students are responsible for:

1. Ensuring understanding of the homework and asking for clarification or help when needed

2. Regularly completing assigned homework in a timely manner

3. Managing time by staying focused, on task, and planning effectively for long-term projects

4. Bringing home all necessary materials

5. Putting forth their best effort to produce quality work

6. Communicating to parents and teachers when homework assignments become overwhelming or if they are not consistently able to do the homework by themself within the time guidelines, or if challenges or questions arise

7. Completing or making up assignments and tests when absent from school

8. Completing or making up assignments and tests when suspended from school if required by the teacher. (Education Code 48913)

(cf.5144.1 - Suspension and Expulsion/Due Process)

 

Parents/Guardians are responsible for:

1. Being an advocate for their child, while encouraging the child to advocate for themself

2. Encouraging reading at all grade levels

3. Providing an appropriate environment for homework to be done

4. Providing a healthy balance between homework, extra and co-curricular activities, and family commitments

5. Contacting the teacher if their child is not consistently able to do the homework by themself within the time guidelines, or if challenges or questions arise

 

Teachers are responsible for:

1. Referencing this policy in all course syllabi and reviewing the policy with students and parents within the first month of school and no later than Back to School Night

2. Encouraging a partnership between family and students that promotes timely communication and supports families in the homework process

3. Designing homework assignments that clearly articulate their purpose and expected outcome, allowing for student questions and planning

4. Providing timely feedback to students

5. Ensuring any homework assigned is directly related to the classroom instruction and consists of clear, purposeful, and engaging activities

6. Assigning homework that is appropriate and differentiated as needed

7. Teaching the skills necessary for the students to complete the homework and become successful independent learners

8. Articulation and planning with all curricular areas

9. Providing makeup work for suspended students

 

Principals are responsible for:

1. Implementing district policy

2. Supporting professional dialogue

3. Promoting teacher collaboration

4. Monitoring homework quality and quantity

5. Introducing parents/guardians to the homework policy within the first month of school, (i.e., Back to School Night)

6. Facilitating interventions and support programs

7. Reviewing the homework plan at least twice per year, in person, with all site faculty at the beginning of each semester

8. Posting the policy on the school's website homepage

 

Makeup Work

The Superintendent or designee shall notify parents/guardians that no student may have their grade reduced or lose academic credit for any excused absence when missed assignments and tests are satisfactorily completed within a reasonable period of time. Such notification shall include the full text of Education Code 48205. (Education Code 48980)