Another benefit of homework, says Russo, is that it can engage parents in school life. Through Homelinks, parents have an opportunity to reinforce learning, to become involved in their child's education. The Homelinks program asks parents to guide students through the 30 minutes of homework assigned each night, except Friday. On Tuesday, the homework focuses on math. Wednesday's homework is connected to themes, such as bus safety or holidays.
Parents then sign the completed homework.
The Homelinks program also features parenting workshops that teach parents how to best help their children complete homework assignments. An emphasis on communicating with parents is also part of a new approach to homework adopted by teachers at Franklin Elementary School. There is space for parents to write their comments and they often send us notes about what's happening in the classroom and how they think their children are responding. Parents welcome the opportunity to share their opinions, she says, and have responded favorably to the planners. Students, too, are enthusiastic.