POLL: How Much Time Is Spent on Homework in Your House?

More than once at Wednesday's Board of Education meeting, the dialogue between several parents and administrators turned to how much time kids -- and their parents -- are spending on homework.

It came up during a discussion about the Reader's Workshop literacy program now in use at Village Elementary and Indian Hill School. In an effort to reinforce and build on reading skills, students are asked to spend at least 20 minutes reading their designated books at night, paying special attention to story elements and their own reactions to them, which they are encouraged to jot down. Several parents said that it is putting a burden on kids who already have homework assignments in math, science and other subjects.

Indian Hill School Principal Tali Axelroad and K-12 Humanities Superviser Susan Alston listened to the concerns.

"Our kids are coming home way with way too many demands," said Board Member Ana Vander Woude, who is also the mother of a sixth grader. Another board member and parent, Dennis Pavlik, expressed concern about "massive homework."

The Board of Education's policy on how much homework a Holmdel School district child should receive is available on the Board of Education website. Policy 6154 sets the following guidelines:

Village School
Kindergarten: At the discretion of the teacher
Grade 1: 15-30 minutes daily
Grade 2: 15-30 minutes daily

Indian Hill School
Grade 3: 30-60 minutes daily
Grade 4: 30-60 minutes daily
Grade 5: 45-75 minutes daily
Grade 6: 45-75 minutes daily

William R. Satz School
Grade 7: 60-120 minutes daily
Grade 8: 60-120 minutes daily

Holmdel High School
Grade 9: 75-150 minutes daily
Grade 10: 75-150 minutes daily
Grade 11: 75-150 minutes daily
Grade 12: 75-150 minutes daily