The introduction of the Ontario Provincial Curriculum which has clearly defined achievement expectations for each subject in each grade, has re-defined the importance of homework. All students, regardless of grade, should establish a regular schedule of home study or homework each school day. At the Primary level, fifteen to thirty minutes is advised. This should be increased through the Junior grades to forty-five minutes and in the Intermediate grades to one hour. Formal homework in the Primary grades will be given if a need exists.

In Grades 4 to 8, homework may be assigned on a regular basis to reinforce skills taught in class or to encourage the development of independent study.

When your child has a homework assignment, your support in ensuring that it is completed will greatly assist your child’s school progress.

Preparation for Class

Students are expected to come to class prepared to participate in all learning activities. Homework must be completed on time and all the tools for work - writing equipment, notes and paper - must be brought to class. Parents will find it necessary to replenish these items during the school year.

Students must be sure that their workbooks, desks, lockers and storage areas are tidy and organized so that finding the tools for work can be done quickly in time for class.

Recommended school supply lists are posted on this web-site and are sent home in June.

How Can Parents Assist?

• Be aware of the expectations of the grade and curriculum. These expectations are contained in the provincial curriculum documents. These documents are available online at the Ministry of Education website and at www.lksdb.net .
• Communicate to your child on a regular basis that his or her best effort in school is important.
• Insist on punctuality and regular attendance.
• Encourage the formation of good study habits and establish a regular home study or homework schedule.
• Encourage your child to ask for help when difficulties arise.
• Communicate with the teacher if your child appears frustrated or develops a negative attitude about school.

Reading to your child daily, and encouraging your child to read, are supportive ways to help your child develop strong literacy skills.

Premier Suites

Premier Suites is a computer program used regularly during the language arts program to read print material on the computer screen. Students are encouraged to download the program and use it at home. The program can only be installed on computers owned by LKDSB students, parents of the student or LKDSB staff (please honour this). Go to www.premierathome.com and type the following Login Name and password: Login: LKDSB; Password: Enable

Attendance

All pupils are required to attend school every day and be on time. Punctual and regular attendance is essential if students are to make good progress and maintain positive attitudes towards school. Please contact the office if your child will be late or absent. Students who are late must report to the office for a late slip.

Teachers may require students to make up the missed time. If habitual, the office will then decide if further action is required. Punctuality is a good practice that students must learn, as arriving late for class causes disruption in classroom routines and activities. Students are responsible for completing school work that was missed.

Field Trips

Throughout the school year, a variety of field trips may be planned. Participation of parents is always appreciated, although bus seats may be limited. While these are an extension of classroom activities, they are also privileges earned by students who do their homework, obey school rules, are responsible, and have acceptable behaviour. Students who are negligent may lose the privilege of going on a class field trip.