Like many parents, I have a love-hate relationship with homework. Research suggests that assigning homework in elementary school is often counterproductive. After spending six hours in a classroom, I believe kids should have the chance to unwind, play, and simply enjoy being kids. However, as my children grow, I recognize the importance of instilling a sense of responsibility when it comes to their schoolwork. Still, I’d much rather see them engaged in creative, project-based tasks instead of mindless worksheets.
Whether or not we’re ready to abolish homework entirely, it’s clear that the system could use a refresh. Enter a visionary teacher from Eugene, Oregon, who has redefined the homework experience. Jamie Parker, a parent at Maplewood Elementary, recently shared her child’s fourth-grade homework guidelines, and I was amazed—in the best way possible.
Parker encourages parents to determine the value of homework for their children. If they find it beneficial, she provides a variety of engaging activities for students to explore at home. At the bottom of the handout, she clarifies her philosophy: “I do not have in-class rewards or penalties for homework since I can’t control whether it gets done. 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 prizes for completing assignments. It’s up to families to prioritize homework.”
Honestly, can I give this woman a high five? We truly know our children best. Many of us can gauge whether homework benefits them or not. Parker mentions that many of her colleagues at Maplewood are parents themselves and understand the balancing act that comes with school and home life, which is why their homework policies are so adaptable.
For parents who might struggle to assess if homework is advantageous for their child, Parker is open to discussions about the policy. She emphasizes that for her daughter, engaging in homework has been a positive experience, especially since the assignments are far more enjoyable than the typical worksheets.
Flexible and Creative Homework Guidelines
One of the most impressive aspects of Parker’s homework guidelines is the flexibility and creativity offered in what constitutes “homework.” She divides assignments into three categories: reading, math, and spelling. Instead of daily due dates, she suggests a rough estimate of time to be spent on each subject and asks students to log their completed work by the end of the week.
Pretty neat, huh?
Here’s the breakdown: students are encouraged to read for 100 minutes a week, at their own pace, with any type of reading counting—whether it’s out loud, silently, or being read to. For math, they need to complete 50 minutes a week without the dreaded Common Core worksheets. Instead, they can try a fun online math program, or even incorporate math into daily activities like cooking. Yes, homework can actually become a family bonding moment!
When it comes to spelling, students get tailored lists based on their developmental level, and studying them is optional. That lovely word: optional. It’s refreshing to think of homework as a collaborative choice between parent and child rather than a burdensome obligation.
Since implementing this new homework policy, Parker’s daughter has found her after-school experience to be much more enjoyable. “It’s fun for her now because she has a cool math app that feels like a game, and cooking together as homework allows us to bond,” Parker explains. “In the past, homework led to tears and constant bribing!”
Fortunately, more school districts are beginning to embrace flexible policies like the one at Maplewood. Homework should never feel like a battleground, yet for too many students, it has become just that. Let’s hope that more schools follow suit and explore innovative homework alternatives.
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In summary, Jamie Parker’s homework policy at Maplewood Elementary offers a refreshing approach that empowers families to make homework a choice rather than an obligation. With flexible options that promote creativity and engagement, it’s a welcomed shift in the educational landscape.