The decision whether or not to assign homework can be a tricky one, and you may be in a school that requires it. Here are some of my reasons for why I don’t assign homework!
My experience at a “no homework” school
I started working at an elementary school in Virginia in 2017 where most teachers assigned homework. My 2nd grade teammate suggested that I give a packet of homework on Monday that was due the following week. I did this that entire first year. I found that I rarely would look over each student’s packet because of all the other demands of being a classroom teacher.
The homework assignments became something that unfortunately went right into the recycling bin. I also realized it was possible that some students’ parents were completing the homework for them. I did not want to punish students whose families may not have had time to sit down with them and complete homework due to work schedules, single parent homes, etc.
The following year, my principal made the decision to make the school a “no homework school”. He explained that he wanted students’ time after school to be spent with their families, participating in extracurricular activities, etc. He told us that there is no research backing up the benefits of homework for elementary school students. I have to be honest and say I was very excited to hear this!
StatAnayltica provides this graphic for reasons why students shouldn’t be given homework. Tap the image to learn more.
Kids need a break too
Personally, I feel that students work so hard during the school day for 6+ hours. I have developed a good system to utilize every minute of my workday to be productive so that my time at home can be MY time. I feel that kids deserve the same!
Many students are involved in extracurricular activities, or may have other responsibilities at home. If we want students to get a good night’s sleep, then we can’t expect them to be up late completing homework after all their other responsibilities. Students that are in special education also may require certain academic supports that their families may not be familiar with. This can lead to unneeded frustration at home.
Alternatives to nightly homework
I will sometimes give optional homework/extension activities to my students. These can include a fun project they can work on with their families, such as creating something that uses 100 objects for the 100th day of school (pictured above). I have also sent home letters explaining to families that completing any make up work over breaks or online assignments is optional and can earn students class money (note home shown below). I emphasize to families that this is optional, so it does not put stress on the families if they are not able to get the necessary supplies, or if they work nontraditional shifts/ multiple jobs.
Check out the SSE website to find great ideas for these fun optional at home projects that bring families together! You can assign an optional cooking activity for students to do at home with their families based around holidays/seasons, and have families share photos with you. These types of activities are more engaging for students than just sitting down and completing a worksheet at home.
Every situation is different
Every school, classroom, teacher, and student are different. Some schools may require homework, and my personal opinion is that as students get into middle and high school, some type of reinforcement at home may be beneficial. However, this still depends on each student’s unique situation and if they truly have time to complete homework at home and have families that will help them stay on top of it. When in doubt, check with your administrators and also with families.
