One of our goals is to ensure that all students develop effective strategies for continuous learning. This includes attention to how homework contributes to learning. Homework provides meaningful opportunities for students to reinforce skills, foster individual interests, enrich classroom learning, and strengthen independent application of student learning. Homework is introduced on a limited basis in grade one (i.e. short mathematics or reading assignments) and increased through grade five. Homework may take as little as 20 minutes in 2^nd grade and up to 1 hour in 5^th grade.    Homework is expected to be completed and returned to school on the specified due date. In addition to assigned work, students are expected to read at home on a daily basis, as appropriate to their age. If parents feel that their child is spending an inordinate amount of time on homework, they should call the teacher to discuss this concern.

It is the responsibility of the parents to send a written notice to the child's classroom teacher and notify the school clinic regarding anticipated absences due to family trips. We strongly discourage families from taking vacations when school is in session, as there is an enormous amount of daily discussions/activities at each grade level that cannot be replicated. A list of vacation days is included in this handbook to assist you in planning for family trips. No makeup work will be given prior to student absences with the exception of religious holiday observances. Necessary makeup work will be assigned upon the child's return with the work and time allotment reflective of the amount of school days that were missed.