Homework Policy
Cascadia Elementary Homework Policy
Cascadia Elementary recognizes that purposeful home learning (which reviews key concepts from class) can be an extension of the classroom learning objectives and a constructive tool in developing self-discipline and associated good working habits.
We also recognize the value of students (who have completed a full and rigorous day of learning on campus) having time to engage in extracurricular activities (such as physical exercise and play, the arts, and music) supported through strong social-emotional relationships with family, friends, and the community.
Below you will find Cascadia’s homework expectations for each grade level. These expectations include maximum amounts of time per day and types of activities (though this time can be flexed/grouped by a family to fit their scheduling needs).
Studies have shown that structured reading at school and home each day is a key factor in student academic progress. Cascadia staff will support families in making home reading a meaningful time through our classroom newsletters, communications, and school events.
As you plan your schedule, we recommend the structured reading time be well before bedtime routines so students can fully engage in the activity.
To ensure consistency across schools, school-based homework policies will be reviewed each fall as part of the school’s Continuous School Improvement Plan (CSIP).
Kindergarten
- 15 minutes of reading, 5 nights per week
Our goal is for Kindergarteners to learn the routine of using a folder to carry communication between home and school. Kindergarten students will be expected to read for 15 minutes, five days per week at home. This can include independent reading (words and/or pictures), being read to by a family member, or reading aloud to a family member.
If families are interested in doing at-home practice of reading and/or math beyond the 15 minutes, they are able to access students’ IXL and Raz-Kids accounts at home. Please contact your students’ teacher for user names and passwords.
1st and 2nd Grade
1st Grade:
- 20 – 25 minutes of reading, 5 nights per week
2nd Grade:
- 20 – 25 minutes of reading, 5 nights per week
- Reading Log entry, 5 nights per week
Our goal is for 1st and 2nd Graders to continue the routine of using a folder to carry communication between home and school with more independence.
Students will be expected to read for 20-25 minutes, five days per week at home. When reading at home, students should be practicing reading strategies learned in class for 15 minutes of the nightly reading time – including reading independently or out loud to family members.
The additional 10 minutes of reading could include an adult reading aloud to the student. Please contact the teacher if you would like books sent home with your child during the week for reading homework.
At 2nd Grade, students will be provided and taught how to use a weekly Reading Log with support from their family (teachers will clarify due dates and expectations with students and families).
If families are interested in doing at-home practice of reading and/or math beyond the 20-25 minutes, they are able to access students’ IXL and Raz-Kids accounts at home. Please contact your students’ teacher for user names and passwords.
3rd, 4th, and 5th Grade
- At least 30 minutes of reading, 5 nights per week
- Reading Log entry, 5 nights per week
Our goal is for 3rd, 4th, and 5th Graders to continue the routine of using a folder to carry communication between home and school independently. Students will be expected to read for 30 minutes, five days per week at home. This should be primarily independently reading a chapter book (either from home or checked out from the Cascadia or a public library).
Additionally, teachers will support 3rd -5th Graders in transitioning to completing their Reading Log more independently.
If families are interested in doing at-home practice of reading and/or math beyond the 30 minutes, they are able to access students’ IXL and Raz-Kids accounts at home. Please contact your students’ teacher for user names and passwords.