Homework is an important part of the overall learning process here at St. Patrick's. Therefore, parents should expect that their child/children would have homework on a regular basis. Parents often ask the teaching staff, “How much homework can I expect my son/daughter to experience?”  This question is best answered in a general fashion. Homework is not merely a time to answer questions or complete a set of math problems. Homework is a time to review, prepare, and expand what has been learned in the classroom. When homework is viewed in this fashion, it is safe to say that St. Patrick's students should spend time each and every night doing homework. The daily average time allotments are:

• Grades K, 1, 2: 0-30 minutes
• Grades 3, 4: 30-40 minutes
• Grade 5: 45-60 minutes
• Grades 6, 7, 8: 60-120 minutes

It is imperative that students develop good study habits.  For this purpose, homework is inclusive of: reading and reviewing class notes and work assignments; preparing for the next lesson; organizing material for the following day; spending time watching the news or reading the paper so that current events become a part of each day, and of course, completing any written assignments. Homework is important! However, it should not be viewed as only a set of written assignments.

Students who fail to complete written assignments may be detained after school. See Section of Handbook related to Detention.

Parents can assist with homework by:

• Making certain that your child has a homework assignment book.
• Making sure that your child completes all assignments.
• Setting aside time, space for written work, as well as time for reading, studying notes, and/or reviewing for tests.

Long-range assignments, projects, and make-up work are the only assignments given to students on weekends. Assignments are geared to the average child’s ability.  Should a student be unable to complete an evening’s work, an appropriate explanation with the parent’s signature is acceptable on rare occasions. Should problems arise, all students are expected to contact the teacher prior to the due date. When absent, all classroom and homework assignments are to be made up. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain the assignment and make sure it is turned in.