Make Homework Optional in All Levels of School

The Issue

My personal experience of spending roughly 180 hours a year on homework, prompted me to initiate this petition. This is the reality for many students like me, who find themselves sacrificing time that could be devoted to hobbies, extracurricular activities, and other life-enhancing experiences. Let's promote a balance of academic and personal growth. By making homework optional, we are not eliminating it, but offering a choice. A study from Stanford University highlighted that excessive homework leads to poor sleep, creates a negative relationship with school, and stunts social skills (Stanford University, 2014). If schools offer optional homework, it would not only alleviate unnecessary stress for students, but also give them the opportunity to manage their time better, based on their individual needs. Help us revolutionize the education system and work towards a more balanced form of learning. Sign the petition today to make homework optional in Elementary, Middle, and High Schools.

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The Issue

My personal experience of spending roughly 180 hours a year on homework, prompted me to initiate this petition. This is the reality for many students like me, who find themselves sacrificing time that could be devoted to hobbies, extracurricular activities, and other life-enhancing experiences. Let's promote a balance of academic and personal growth. By making homework optional, we are not eliminating it, but offering a choice. A study from Stanford University highlighted that excessive homework leads to poor sleep, creates a negative relationship with school, and stunts social skills (Stanford University, 2014). If schools offer optional homework, it would not only alleviate unnecessary stress for students, but also give them the opportunity to manage their time better, based on their individual needs. Help us revolutionize the education system and work towards a more balanced form of learning. Sign the petition today to make homework optional in Elementary, Middle, and High Schools.

The Decision Makers

Maura Healey
Massachusetts Governor
William Galvin
Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth

Supporter Voices

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Petition created on February 25, 2025