Homework Expectations
As faculty, we believe that homework should be meaningful. Our policy is based on the premise that students should live balanced lives. We also view academic work at school and at home as a partnership between the students, parents, and faculty. Homework is an opportunity for students to hone academic skills, demonstrate a commitment to their education, build responsibility, and develop self-discipline. Completion of assignments allows students to take advantage of class time to ask clarifying questions and broaden their understanding. For the 2019-20 academic year as we experience 68 minute classes, we have adjusted the homework expectations.
If a student is spending an inordinate amount of time on work outside of the classroom, it is imperative that s/he inform the teacher and also reach out to the Dean of Academics.
- Grades 6 & 7: Homework should not exceed 30 minutes.
- Grades 8, 9 and 10: Homework should not exceed 60 minutes.
- Grades 11 and 12: Homework should not exceed 90 minutes with the exception of IB classes.
Homework Vacations
Homework vacations are provided in recognition of the need to balance academic work with extracurricular and family activities. No major assessment or paper can be assigned for these days. Scheduled homework vacations include Thanksgiving Break, Holiday Break, Presidents’ Day Break and Spring Break except in advanced courses. Students may choose to work ahead on long-term projects during these breaks, but they will not be given assignments to be completed over the break. IB students can expect work throughout the year except during Holiday Break.