Today, February 2, is the first Monday of the month. As I suggest every month in this blog, I hope you’ll send a note expressing your thoughts about homework to your children’s teachers or, perhaps, to a school administrator or School Board member. Even better, join with a few friends and send a collective note. Ask for a public discussion of the problem. Ask the school to be responsive. If you need help in formulating a note, look in The Case Against Homework for some examples, or see the kinds of notes parents have been writing by browsing Moms (and Dads) on a Mission on this blog. If you do send a note, please post a comment and send me a copy of your letter. And if you get a response from the teacher or school, please let us know that as well.
And what am I doing? I mailed a copy of The Case Against Homework to the principal of my daughter’s high school. I included a short note introducing myself and inviting him to have a discussion with me about high schoolers and stress.
Stop Homework 
I’m not sure where to post this, but I thought it belonged in the discussion somewhere. My local public radio ran a program about KIPP, talking to Jay Matthews:
http://www.whyy.org/91FM/radiotimes.html
KIPP is pretty much boot camp for at-risk kids. 9 1/2 hours of school, followed by 2 hours of homework! I am beyond skeptical of their alleged results. Even if everything they claim is true, it’s clear that they’re turning out other-driven, obedient kids who will be lost without someone telling them what to do.
It reminds me of a conversation I had with the principal of my daughter’s current school. She said that it’s important for a child to have a good relationship with the teacher to motivate them to learn. I really don’t agree with this. I don’t want my daughter’s motivation to be a desire to please the teacher. I want her motivation to be a genuine interest in learning.
I was also alarmed by a school principal who called in and complained that his teacher’s union would be opposed to working Saturdays! Well, for once I agree with the teacher’s union. Teachers have a right to their own time just like everyone else.
Okay, it’s time for me to start making connections to our local homeschoolers …
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