With Thanksgiving rapidly approaching, I am writing to remind you of our "No Homework Holiday" Policy, which we implemented last school year.

Educators, parents, and students have long debated the efficacy of homework, its relative advantages and disadvantages. Advocates on either side of the issue have cited research on academic growth, social emotional development and health, and other factors. Looking at the big picture, I feel that we as a school have taken a balanced, responsible approach, with an emphasis on the relevance of the assigned homework to classroom learning. Our homework policy appears in the Student Handbook.

My greatest concern is the health and well-being of our students. High school is a very stressful time of young people, and we have seen many instances where the pressures and demands kids face have manifested themselves in increased social and emotional dysfunction. Our kids are very academically capable, but they can succumb to stress that comes from the pressure to succeed. That is the reason we included "decompressing" activities as an option for students during Academic Lab. Our long school holidays (Thanksgiving, Winter Break and Spring Break) should afford our kids with the opportunity to reduce stress, sleep late, spend time with family and friends, read for their personal interest, or otherwise pursue activities that help them recharge their batteries. Such respites are essential for our students to be effective learners. 

• The policy applies to the Thanksgiving, Winter and Spring breaks.

• Any typical, average-length homework assignment due the week after one of these holidays should be announced at least 1 1/2 weeks before the start of the holiday. Assignments should include all necessary instructions and materials. 

• The scope of such an assignment should be such that students have ample opportunity to complete the work prior to the holiday break. This will also allow students to decide for themselves how much they wish to do before or even during the holiday period. 

• No exams, quizzes or major projects or essays should be due on the day students have their first class returning from their holiday break. For Thanksgiving, this will be Monday and Tuesday, November 27-28.

I hope all of you have a relaxing and enjoyable Thanksgiving holiday with your families.  As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at any time at 773-534-8606 or   [email protected].

Photography, debate team, soccer, sailing, Blueprint, Best Buddies, AP research, basketball, aquarium club, dance, majorettes, choir, swimming,..

Whatever has inspired your child at Jones, 

the Annual Fund has helped make it possible.

 

Origins of the Jones Eagles