Homework Policy

Homework

Homework Policy

Flagstone Elementary Schools Homework Philosophy and Policies:

Philosophy

We are finding that many well-established homework traditions just don't make sense anymore in today's world. Large amounts of homework stifle motivation, diminish students’ love of learning, turn reading into a chore, negatively affect the quality of family time, diminish creativity, and turn learning into drudgery. At Flagstone, we believe that homework can be a stressful activity for students and families, and if not done right, can actually create a hindrance to a student’s passion for learning. FSE’s homework policy reflects our beliefs that students should do work that is purposeful, meaningful, aligned to individual needs and interests, and should be worthy of their time and attention.

At FSE, we want students and parents to view homework as something that encourages students to think deeply about relevant questions that matter and gets them excited about what they are learning at school. Assignments should include time to review important, transferable and sustainable skills and pursue interest-based learning activities. Time for processing and reflection, even for our youngest students, can enhance their metacognitive processes and encourages thoughtfulness that can be fostered throughout their entire lives.

Homework for each child may look different based on learning style, academic level and/or interests, because one size does not fit all. Students will have choice in the tasks that they do and work will be differentiated to their level. We also believe that there are skills like reading, math facts and keyboarding fluency that need to be practiced daily. We encourage parents to adhere to recommended time limits: the rule of thumb is ten minutes per grade level, not including reading time.

We also believe that kids need down time, sleep, fresh air, exercise, and positive family time. Performing civic service and celebrating religious traditions are important “home” work, too. Participating in the community, in home life, and in extracurricular activities enrich the learning experience and help children become well-rounded.

Expanding the definition of homework can help make the world a classroom for our students. We want homework to become less drudgery and more discovery for Flagstone Elementary School students. We are excited to partner with families as we support student growth.

Purpose of Homework at FSE

    • Stimulate interest or extension of thinking that has happened during the school day
    • At the level of each individual student
    • Provide short practice sessions on basic skills (math facts)
    • Extend our knowledge of the world by reading every day for a specific period of time or longer
    • Reading or watching a video that gets students ready for class discussion the next day
    • Typical 5th Grade Activities
      • Unfinished classroom assignments. Forty minutes of choice reading and articles as assigned. Word study, and practice with multiplication/division facts to automaticity through 12. Occasional research on topics of study.