Homework Policy
Based on Palmdale School District Policy (AR6154a)

General Information

Homework is a teacher planned learning activity which takes place outside the students regular hours. As such, homework should reinforce classroom learning and expand on a students school experiences. Homework assignments are to be specific and related to classroom objectives. The amount of homework assigned, its complexity and scope and even the grading of homework should be related to the needs and individual abilities of the students.

Homework Time Limits:

• K & 1^st Grade at least two nights a week for 10-15 minutes, except on Friday or before a holiday.
• 2^nd Grade May be given homework for 15-20 minutes Monday thru Thursday. No homework on Fridays or before a holiday.
• 3^rd -5^th Grade May be given homework for 20-40 minutes Monday thru Thursday. No homework on Friday or before a holiday.
• 6^th Grade May be given homework for 40-60 minutes Monday thru Thursday. No homework on Friday or before a holiday.

Homework assignments shall reflect all major areas of the class curriculum throughout the academic year and shall be meaningful, high quality tasks. Homework may include:

• reinforcement of skills taught in class
• extensions of class learning
• enrichment activities
• special research projects
• drill and memorization
•  composition writing
• review and study for tests
• book reports
• remedial work or recreational reading.

Homework shall not be given for disciplinary measures. However, unfinished class work may be assigned as homework when a student has failed to complete assignments (due to poor work habits - not because he/she is a slow worker or learner). A contract shall be established with parent and student in such cases.

Students may be given long-term assignments. These may include science projects, preparation of an oral presentation or research paper.

NOTE: These assignments may make it necessary for students to work on weekends or holidays.

Make-Up Work

Students may be given the opportunity to make up work missed due to an excused absence and to receive full credit if the work is turned in according to a reasonable make-up schedule. Students participating in pull out programs may not be penalized by being expected to make up all of the missed classroom work. Students who miss school because of unexcused absences may be given the opportunity to make up missed work for full or reduced credit at the discretion of the teacher.

Students who miss school due to suspension, truancy or other deliberate actions should not expect to receive credit for the time missed, nor should they expect to take any missed examinations for credit, but the final decision will rest with the teacher.