Homework at Summit

Summit’s approach to homework is based on our understanding that students need practice and review of skills. They also benefit from assignments that reinforce, extend, or apply knowledge and concepts learned at school. Summit policies are designed to increase personal responsibility, independence, and perseverance. Homework guidelines progress from grade to grade and across divisions based on age-appropriate expectations. By the end of the ninth grade our graduates should demonstrate initiative, self-reliance, and resourcefulness in their approach to all assignments.

Note: Homework policies include appropriate consequences at each grade level to ensure that each child benefits from the homework process.

Homework in Junior High

In the Jr. High many academic experiences happen at school. Daily homework and work in classes correlate closely to produce effective learning. Homework goals are to practice and review skills or extend concepts presented in school; develop note-taking skills; and apply skills through long-range projects that also require time management strategies. On days when there is no specific written homework, students are expected to study and review prior material. By the time students reach Jr. High, a homework routine should be firmly established from the earlier grades. Parents should review a student’s scheduled time and place for homework at the beginning of each year. Most Jr. High students will need little supervision but may appreciate parents’ willingness to be a resource or even may ask for help in studying for a quiz or test.  Students are expected to use the planner provided for them and note each assignment for individual classes on a daily basis. Teachers plan homework time to be, on average, twenty minutes per class at the beginning of seventh grade increasing to at least thirty minutes per class after first term of seventh grade and in eighth and ninth grades. Individual students may need more or less time.  The ninth grade year—the first year of high school—requires consistent application of time management strategies to manage long range as well as daily assignments. Advisors or teachers are ready to help with suggestions and support.