Lois Lenski Elementary supports students in maintaining and extending their learning. The appropriate design, use, and evaluation of homework assignments, used to inform progress, provide opportunities for independent practice, and increase personal responsibility, are part of achieving that goal. District policy for absent students is that students will receive the same number of days absent plus one day to complete all make-up work. However, we believe at the elementary level there is some teacher discretion. Work will be available upon a student’s return to school.

Grades K – 2

• Amount of Homework: No more than 20 minutes of homework per night will be assigned. In Kindergarten there will be no assignments that must be submitted to the teacher.
• Purpose of Homework: Homework provides practice opportunities for skill development.
• Parent’s Role: At this young age, students require an adult to guide them in the process of completing homework.
• Families are encouraged to read to or with their children nightly in addition to any assigned work and to practice grade appropriate math facts on a nightly basis for a few minutes.

Grades 3 – 5

• Amount of Homework: The benefits of homework increase as students age. No more than 30 minutes required per night in grade 3, 40 minutes in grade 4, and 50 minutes in grade 5.
• Purpose of Homework: Homework assignments usually reinforce previously taught skills and may prepare students for future lessons, promote creativity, and/or be a reflection on the student’s day at school.
• Parent’s Role: As children grow and mature, less guidance is required. By the end of grade 5, students should be able to complete homework independently. Setting aside a time and place to complete homework will help create a habit that will prepare students for success in school and life.
• Families are encouraged to read to or with their children nightly in addition to any assigned work and to practice grade appropriate math facts on a nightly basis for a few minutes.