We at The Beekman School have a keen interest in developing students’ independent and creative thought and willingness to accept intellectual risks and challenges, as well as the formation of superior work habits and cooperative, positive approaches to learning. While these attributes cannot always be precisely measured and adjusted, we prize them and work energetically to foster their development. There is no doubt that the development of these skills brings with them not only a sense of academic achievement but also a feeling of pride and satisfaction.
Assessment
A variety of measures including projects, essays, presentations, portfolios, homework assignments, quizzes, and tests are used to teach students and assess their progress.
All teachers announce dates of tests, due dates of papers and major projects in advance. Students should talk to their teachers ahead of time if they need an extension on a project or if they need to re-schedule an exam. Generally, if a student has three major exams on one day, re-scheduling one of these exams may be possible, as long as it is done in advance. Re-scheduling an exam on the day of that exam is not permitted.
Homework Policy
Students should expect to have homework assigned every day in all subjects. Weekend assignments are given at the discretion of individual teachers. Students should see their teachers, study hall supervisor, or advisor if they need help organizing and completing their work in a reasonable amount of time. Daily homework assignments should take 30-45 minutes per class to complete for freshmen and sophomores and 45 minutes per class for juniors and seniors.
Homework assignments are posted daily on the school website. Up to date homework information is provided for both current and past assignments. This enables students who are absent or misplace an assignment to keep pace with the work, and enables parents to monitor homework assignments, as needed. Homework assignments can be accessed using the Current Students link at the bottom of each page.
Study Hall
It is important for students to develop disciplined homework and study habits. For this reason, there is a teacher-supervised study hall held every period from 8:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Students may be assigned to a study hall if their academic circumstances warrant it or if a parent requests it. Attendance is taken during study hall for all students whose presence is required. Missing a regular study hall will result in a one-hour after-school detention. | 
