Fourth Grade Homework Policy

I believe homework is important because it is a valuable aid in helping students make the most of their experience in school.  I give homework in preparing students for upcoming lessons, in teaching responsibility, and in helping students develop study habits.

Homework should take students no more than 45 minutes to complete each night.  However, studying for tests and long-range projects takes a longer time.  Note: tests will be given each Friday in spelling.

I expect students to do their best on homework.  In most cases, students are to do the work on their own and only ask for help after they have given it their best effort.

All homework is checked.  I strongly believe in motivating children to develop good study habits.  Therefore, I give students praise and other incentives when they do their homework.

If students choose not to do their homework, their name is placed on the "Yet" board list.  Unless they are ill, the work is to be completed and turned in the next day.  If there is a problem, parents can write me a note and the student can see me to make other arrangements.  If students still choose not to complete their homework, they lose certain privileges - free reading time, or early dismissal to recess and lunch.  I will contact you to create a work plan for your child if there is still a problem.

Again, if there is a legitimate reason why a student is not able to finish homework, the parent must send a note to me on the day the homework is due stating the reason it was not completed.  The not must be signed by the parent. (Sports do not take priority over school work.)

I feel that parents are the key to making homework a positive experience for their children.  Therefore, I ask that parents make homework a top priority, provide necessary supplies, offer a quiet homework place, set a daily homework time, provide praise and support, not let children avoid homework, and contact me when there is a problem.

Parents should help their child with homework if a problem arises, but only after the child has tried their best to solve it on their own.  In no case should parents do homework for their children.  If your child does not understand a lesson even after you assistance, please write me a not and I will help with the problem.