North Middlesex Regional School District
Guidelines for Homework
 
In the North Middlesex Regional School District, we value study that occurs beyond the classroom and school day largely because we have learned through research and practice that good homework accelerates achievement and established a positive work ethic invaluable in later pursuits.  To this end, the assignment of homework: the reinforcement of skills and knowledge learned in the classroom, the application of learning to a new situation, and the independent acquisition of sills and knowledge.
 

Additionally, educators offer these justifications for the assignment of homework:
* To provide opportunity for parents and children to work together on academic pursuits,
* To keep parents abreast of the curriculum,
* To serve as a guide to the teacher in planning instructions,
* To develop study habits and a work ethic among students, and
* To provide activities that supports other learning style.
 

With these thoughts in mind, the following guidelines for homework have been established:

1. In the primary and early elementary grades, the emphasis will be on reading and mathematics.
2. All projects assigned will reflect the primary purpose (s) of homework, will be given sufficient time for completion, and will not be due immediately upon return from vacation. Recognizing the difficulties associated with determining individual student contributions and equitable grading, teachers are discouraged from assigning out-of-school group projects unless these issues can be assessed with certainty.
3. Daily homework at the elementary level will generally be assigned for 10 minutes of study per grade level.  Thus, the grade 5 student can expect nightly assignments that can be completed in approximately 50 minutes.
4. At the middle school level students can generally expect up to 90 minutes of nightly homework.  Communication among middle school teachers is essential to ensure compliance with this guideline.
5. At the secondary level students can generally expect two hours of nightly homework.  For students in advanced level classes, more time will be required.
6. All homework assignments will be assessed by the teacher and the student.  Collected homework will be returned to the student in a timely fashion.
7. Homework generally should not count for more than 20% of a student’s grade.  There will be consistency regarding this guideline.
8. Teachers will communicate in a timely manner with parents when homework assignments are not being completed.  Parents will communicate with teachers if their children are experiencing difficulty with assignments.
9. When assigning homework at the elementary and middle school levels, teachers need to be aware of extra-curriculum school events in which many students are involved.
10. Parents are encouraged to utilize the resources available through the school to assist students with the successful completion of assignments.

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