Homework
Dear Families,
As a Preschool-3rd grade school, we are committed to supporting learning, engagement, and the overall well-being of our children.
Homework at Brittan Acres
As a Preschool-3rd grade school, we are committed to supporting learning, engagement, and the overall well-being of our children.
Homework at Brittan Acres
- Out of classroom learning will vary according to a student’s grade level, ability, need and interests, whenever possible.
- All students will be expected to read and talk about books each day. (Read alouds and turn-taking count!)
- Daily practice in math may be assigned in order to support skill mastery, as determined by teacher observations of student progress.
- Additional assignments may occasionally be given when outside of class activities will deepen student-driven learning and/or project-based learning in the classroom.
- Some students may need more time or different resources to meet grade level standards. Teachers and parents will work together to set goals, develop a support plan, and monitor progress.
- We recognize that learning happens throughout a child’s day, and that children are most engaged when they are pursuing their own goals. We want to help make room in our students’ day for all kinds of learning!
Why?
Our staff engaged in a series of evidence-based conversations about what young children need in order to thrive. In addition, Superintendent Baker and our Board of Trustees continue to engage in community conversations about a revised district homework policy TK-Grade 8, how it will support our strategic plan, and the district’s next steps towards adoption of a new policy. The following key points from research and our experience have been highlighted along this journey:
Our staff engaged in a series of evidence-based conversations about what young children need in order to thrive. In addition, Superintendent Baker and our Board of Trustees continue to engage in community conversations about a revised district homework policy TK-Grade 8, how it will support our strategic plan, and the district’s next steps towards adoption of a new policy. The following key points from research and our experience have been highlighted along this journey:
- Homework assignments should be purposeful, meaningful, and tailored to the individual needs of students
- Daily reading is key to each child’s long-term success
- Development of organizational work habits and self-discipline are crucial. These skills can be developed in a variety of ways at home and at school, not only through the completion of homework
- Family time, play time, and down time are important for all children
At Brittan Acres, we’re building on these principles and considering what this means in a preschool-third grade environment.
Personal Learning
Research tells us that assigning all students the same homework does not improve learning. Children learn at different paces and in different ways, thriving when they can practice with guidance at a level just beyond their independent “learning zone.”
Play and Passions
Young children need extensive time each day for free play and to explore personal passions in the arts, sciences, athletics and more! After school hours provide an important block of time for these essentials. For young children, play is the primary vehicle for learning.
Responsibility
Elementary students are learning how to contribute to their classrooms and their households, pitching in to help with age appropriate responsibilities. After school can be a wonderful time to learn how to help out around the house and take care of pets. These hands-on opportunities build independence and a sense of self-efficacy.
Connections and Conversations
Young children need daily opportunities to connect with their families. Dinner table conversations, game nights, and family fun build strong kids! We know these connections are more possible when there is more free time for families in the evenings.
Sleep
Sleep is essential for emotional well-being, physical health, and learning. Health professionals recommend 10-13 hours a sleep each night for children ages 3-5 and 9-11 hours for children ages 6-13. As a community, let’s work together to prioritize sleep and help our kids feel ready and excited for the next school day!
To find the SCSD homework policy, please go to:https://www.scsdk8.org/
Personal Learning
Research tells us that assigning all students the same homework does not improve learning. Children learn at different paces and in different ways, thriving when they can practice with guidance at a level just beyond their independent “learning zone.”
Play and Passions
Young children need extensive time each day for free play and to explore personal passions in the arts, sciences, athletics and more! After school hours provide an important block of time for these essentials. For young children, play is the primary vehicle for learning.
Responsibility
Elementary students are learning how to contribute to their classrooms and their households, pitching in to help with age appropriate responsibilities. After school can be a wonderful time to learn how to help out around the house and take care of pets. These hands-on opportunities build independence and a sense of self-efficacy.
Connections and Conversations
Young children need daily opportunities to connect with their families. Dinner table conversations, game nights, and family fun build strong kids! We know these connections are more possible when there is more free time for families in the evenings.
Sleep
Sleep is essential for emotional well-being, physical health, and learning. Health professionals recommend 10-13 hours a sleep each night for children ages 3-5 and 9-11 hours for children ages 6-13. As a community, let’s work together to prioritize sleep and help our kids feel ready and excited for the next school day!
To find the SCSD homework policy, please go to:https://www.scsdk8.org/
Find our strategic plan at SCSD's website.