Like many parents, I have mixed feelings about homework. Research suggests that homework in elementary school may not be very effective, and honestly, kids need time to relax, play, and just be kids after spending hours in school. However, as my children get older, I see the value in teaching them responsibility regarding their schoolwork. Still, I’d much prefer they engage in creative, project-based assignments rather than endless worksheets.
A progressive teacher in Eugene, Oregon, named Lisa Hargrove has introduced a refreshing homework policy that I believe could be a model for other schools. Recently, she shared her fourth-grade homework guidelines, which completely amazed me.
Lisa encourages parents to determine whether homework is beneficial for their children. If they decide it is, she provides engaging and creative ways for students to continue their learning at home. At the bottom of the guidelines, Lisa explains her approach: “I don’t enforce classroom rewards or penalties for homework since I don’t control whether it’s completed,” she states. “Doing homework is a family decision. Students will receive a homework grade on their report card, but they won’t miss out on class activities or earn rewards for completing homework. It’s up to families to determine if homework is important.”
This is such a relief! We all know our kids best, and we can usually tell if homework is helping them or just causing stress. Lisa mentions that many teachers at Howard Elementary are parents themselves, so they understand the challenges of balancing school and home life, which is why their homework policies are flexible.
For some parents, figuring out if homework is beneficial can be challenging, but Lisa welcomes discussions about the policy. She noted that for her daughter, engaging in this new homework approach has been a positive experience, especially since the assignments are more enjoyable than traditional homework.
Flexible and Creative Homework Guidelines
What’s truly remarkable about these guidelines is the flexibility and creativity allowed in what constitutes homework. Lisa categorizes assignments into reading, math, and spelling. Instead of daily homework, she suggests an estimated time for each subject and asks students to document their completed work on a log to submit at the week’s end.
- Reading: Students are encouraged to complete 100 minutes per week, and any type of reading counts—whether it’s aloud, silently, or someone reading to them.
- Math: Assignments require 50 minutes per week, but there are no tedious worksheets to deal with. Instead, kids can use fun online math programs or incorporate math into daily activities like cooking, turning homework into a family bonding opportunity.
- Spelling: Students receive lists tailored to their learning levels, and studying them is optional.
The word “optional” is so liberating! It transforms homework into a shared decision between parent and child rather than a burdensome chore. Lisa’s daughter has flourished under this new policy, finding joy in learning, thanks to a math app that feels like a game and cooking together for homework. This contrasts sharply with previous years filled with frustration and tears over traditional assignments.
More schools across the country are beginning to adopt similar flexible homework policies, recognizing that homework should not be an overwhelming struggle for students. It’s time for a change, and hopefully, many more districts will explore innovative options like these.
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In summary, Lisa Hargrove’s homework policy at Howard Elementary School exemplifies a much-needed shift in how we approach homework in elementary education. By allowing families to choose and creating flexible, engaging assignments, she is helping students thrive without the stress that often accompanies traditional homework.