Cedar Park Elementary Homework Policy 2017-19
Cedar Park Elementary recognizes that purposeful home learning (which reviews key concepts from class) can be an extension of the classroom learning objectives and a constructive tool in developing self-discipline and associated good working habits. We also recognize the value of students (who have completed a full and rigorous day of learning on campus) having time to engage in extracurricular activities (such as physical exercise and play, the arts, and music) supported through strong social-emotional relationships with family, friends, and the community.
Below you will find Cedar Park’s homework expectations for each grade level. These expectations include maximum amounts of time per day and types of activities (though this time can be flexed/grouped by a family to fit their scheduling needs). If your child is spending longer on individual activities or the maximum homework time allotted, we ask that you communicate with your child’s classroom teacher so additional modifications can be made.
Studies have shown that structured reading at school and home each day is a key factor in student academic progress. Cedar Park staff will support families in making home reading a meaningful time through our classroom newsletters, communications, and school events. As you plan your schedule, we recommend the structured reading time be well before bedtime routines so students can fully engage in the activity.
To ensure consistency across schools, school-based homework policies will be reviewed each fall as part of the school’s Continuous School Improvement Plan (CSIP).
Kindergarten
- Reading: 10-15 minutes of reading & Reading Log Entry* 5 nights per week
- Other: Expeditionary Learning activities (not to exceed 15 minutes per week when assigned)
Our goal is for Kindergarteners to learn the routine of using a folder to carry communication between home and school. Kindergarten students will be expected to read for 15 minutes, five days per week at home. This can include independent reading (words and/or pictures), being read to by a family member, or reading aloud to a family member. Occasionally, kindergarteners will also be asked to spend quality time on age appropriate activities with family members that relate to our learning expeditions. This will generally not exceed 15 minutes per week, and will be directly connected to our in-class projects.
1st & 2nd Grade
- Reading: 20 - 25 minutes of reading & Reading Log Entry*, 5 nights per week
- Other: Expeditionary Learning activities (not to exceed 30 minutes per week when assigned)
Our goal is for 1st and 2nd Graders to continue the routine of using a folder to carry communication between home and school with more independence. Students will be expected to read for 20-25 minutes, five days per week at home, and will be provided with a weekly Reading Log due each Monday. Students will be taught how to use the Reading Log and will be expected to take responsibility for completing it. When reading at home, students should be practicing reading strategies learned in class for 15 minutes or more of the nightly reading time. They can read to family members, siblings, or independently. The additional 5-10 minutes of reading could include an adult reading to a child. Please contact the teacher if you would like books sent home with your child during the week for reading homework. Occasionally, 1st and 2nd graders will also be asked to spend quality time on age appropriate activities with family members that relate to our learning expeditions. This will generally not exceed 30 minutes per week, and will be directly connected to our in-class projects.
3rd, 4th & 5th Grade
- Reading: At least 30 minutes of reading & Reading Log Entry*, 5 nights per week
- Other: Expeditionary Learning activities (not to exceed 45 minutes per week when assigned)
Our goal is for 3rd, 4th, and 5th Graders to continue the routine of using a folder to carry communication between home and school independently. Students will be expected to read for 30 minutes, five days per week at home. Occasionally, they will also be asked to spend quality time on age appropriate activities with family members that relate to our learning expeditions. This will generally not exceed 45 minutes per week, and will be directly connected to our in-class projects.
*Reading Log will be provided by classroom teachers in the fall of 2018.