Every day at Portage High School, students like me are being pressured to complete IXL assignments during Homeroom that are not actually part of our assigned schoolwork. This practice was ostensibly introduced as a means to boost overall student performance, but it has become clear that it is unfair and detrimental to many students' educational experience.

As a student, I face the frustration of being required to focus on IXL assignments during Homeroom. These are not assignments that directly benefit my learning or that count towards my grades, yet they consume valuable time that could be used more productively. Many of us find ourselves unable to complete our truly assigned class assessments due to this unnecessary burden. Worse yet, when we are unable to complete assignments at home due to this lost time, we face admonishment from parents who do not understand how our time is being utilized at school.

Studies and educational research have shown that students benefit most from a diversified experience during Homeroom – a time meant for catching up on classwork, preparing for upcoming lessons, or seeking support in areas where they're struggling. Consistent assignment of unnecessary tasks during this period, like IXL, limits students from these opportunities.

The current approach does not address the core issue, which is the need for effective teaching during regular class hours. Pushing students into IXL as a stopgap measure does not compensate for inadequate instruction or create meaningful improvements in academic performance. Instead, it diverts both energy and motivation away from where it is truly needed.

Our aim is to create a more productive and supportive learning environment at Portage High School, one where Homeroom is returned to its intended purpose—a time to focus on student-driven needs and priorities.

I propose that Portage High School discontinues the assignment of IXL tasks during Homeroom and reallocates this time to allow students to complete their assigned class assessments, catch up on overdue work, and prepare for future lessons. Such a change would show respect for students’ time, improve academic outcomes, and reduce unnecessary punitive measures at home.

Sign this petition and help us bring back the intended purpose of Homeroom at Portage High School to foster an environment that truly supports students' educational growth and success. Together, we can advocate for a change that will benefit students, teachers, and families alike.