Homework is essential for academic success both for the rigorous Joseph Sears School curriculum and to develop academic and study skills necessary for success in high school and beyond. Joseph Sears School students, families, faculty and administrators share the responsibility for students maximizing the benefits of assigned homework while still maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

Research indicates a clear correlation between homework completion and academic success. Research also indicates detrimental and counter-productive effects of too much homework, both on students’ stress levels and academic performance.

Joseph Sears School faculty and administrators are committed to providing students with the best opportunities for growth and success in school by assigning meaningful and purposeful homework. Purposes for homework include: practicing and reinforcing material previously studied in class, introduction of new material to build background knowledge and schema, extending previously learned skills to new situations and contexts, and producing original work such as book reports, science projects, and creative writing.

Faculty and administrators continuously evaluate the school’s homework policy and the way in which this information is communicated to both students and families. The Joseph Sears School homework guidelines below are intended to provide parents and families with the typical workload per day for students. Should any student experience that his or her time spent on homework is far exceeding the guidelines, we encourage communication between parents, students and teachers so that we may collaborate on solutions and support each child with what he or she needs in order to be successful.

Homework Guidelines