This summer I came across an article about homework, "Homework is wrecking our kids: The research is clear, let's ban elementary homework." This is a subject near and dear to my heart, because I have watched year after year students frustrated, stressed, and worried about homework, and most of them not over the age of 11. Seriously, students 5-11 worried about the amount of homework, crying and stressed at home due to additional school work, and parents calling in a panic because their child is doing fine in school BUT not on their homework. The article discusses how education is placing a wedge between students and the love of learning. Homework does NOT help students love school, it does NOT help our students "study better," nor does it have an impact on student's academic success. Yes, I once gave homework, and encouraged evening reading, but knowing what I know now, I could never go back to giving homework. Last year, I was encouraged to watch a movie called, "A Race To Nowhere." It was one of the most eye opening movies about the stress we (parents & educators) are placing on today's students. There were many tearful moments when I saw myself in this video as a parent and a teacher. I had a long discussion with my thirteen year old son about this movie, and asked him to watch it also. We then openly discussed his opinions and views, and how I could help make things better. Being a teenager is already one of the most stressful times, hormones and finding your identity. I could no longer see myself in the roll of homework enforcer. I encourage all teachers and parents to watch this video that you can find on Netflix. So now what?
Throughout my years in education, one of the most consistent pieces of information I have come across that put students over the edge is: HOMEWORK! Yes, homework, the redundant process of showing the skills you have already mastered, or the time to do your work because there was no time in class. If, in fact, homework is the one of the major sources of stress, and research has shown that homework is not beneficial to elementary age students, then WHY ARE WE GIVING IT? I challenge you to do what is best for students and their success in school. This year, make a difference and tell your students you are NOT giving homework. Watch their faces, listen to the sighs of relief and the cheers of excitement. Doing what is best for students, sometimes is realizing we have to change. The challenge: #nohomework What will you do this year? How will you take a stand for students?
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As many are mourning the end of summer, I have to secretly admit, I am anxiously waiting for that first day of school. At least a week before the start of every school year, I begin losing sleep, waking up in the middle of the night, and my mind won't shut off. I love the beginning of the school year! It's a time to reorganize the room, plan new and innovative lessons, collaborate with colleagues, and get a new group of students that I call, "my kids!" They aren't just my students, they are "my kids." I get to learn about their summer, their family, their sports, their passions, and so much more. I look forward to this every year. As students enter the building with such excitement, and anticipation, I too am filled with such emotions. As I gear up for the new school, here are my goals and aspirations:
I love this video about Moon Shot thinking, and share it with my students! This list could go on and on, but this school year, we are going to do things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard. We are going to shoot for the moon, and reach for the stars, because before I even know them, I know they are out of this world! Welcome back students! Sincerely, Your crazily excited teacher! |
Kelly GarnerMy goal as a teacher is to inspire and equip students to dream big and take risks! Archives
August 2016
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