Libraries have a magical ability to focus the mind: the quiet, the smell of books, the coworking effect that comes with being surrounded by people committed to getting things done. Homework Project, Commonwealth’s twice-weekly evening study hall, harnesses this magic to great effect. Yes, it makes for a long day, but attendees say it’s worth it. “I was pretty skeptical about whether [Homework Project] would be helpful or not,” says Jake ’26. “I was pleasantly surprised by how nice it was to just go home with nothing left to do.” 

Keep reading to learn more about this helpful resource and how to make the most of it from two Homework Project veterans. 

What Is Homework Project?

Homework Project is Commonwealth's opt-in evening study hall where students can do homework in a distraction-free environment, enjoying the camaraderie of other focused students, with the aim of heading home with little or no remaining work to do. 

It runs from 5:00–8:00 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursdays in the library. Dinner is provided. A proctor is available to help students who would like additional guidance, too. 

How Do You Join? 

Drop by during the first quarter to see if it’s helpful. The first session is Thursday, September 25. Students new to Homework Project can try two sessions for free. Then, for students who want to join, parents/guardians can sign up and be billed once a quarter at $30/session; there is no cost for students with financial aid.

Who Should Go to Homework Project?

Homework Project is open to everyone—and “anyone who is looking to ease the stress of school would find Homework Project helpful!” says Sofía ’26. 

She started attending last year, as a junior, a notoriously intense year for high-school students. “Due to the increase in workload and stress,” she says, “I was open to trying anything that would help.” The “controlled environment” of Homework Project sounded useful; the feeling of getting home and without having to worry about completing homework kept her coming back. “Not only did I always fully complete my homework, but sometimes I also had time to start the homework for the next day,” she says.  “Also pizza for dinner every Tuesday and Thursday was a deal I couldn't pass on.” (Other dinners have been added to the mix, but pizza is a still a favorite.)

Students who find working at home distracting for whatever reason might also be more productive at Homework Project, a “very calm place to work,” Jake says. He started attending for a few reasons, including wanting to feel more on top of his workload and some nudges from friends and parents. “Especially in the beginning,” he says, “it was easy, low commitment, and I could just try it out.

How Can You Make the Most of Homework Project?

“Make a list of what you have to do as well as your priorities,” urges Sofía. Once you do, “Just be ready to show up, ready to work,” Jake says. That may be easier said than done at the end of a long day, he acknowledges, but “having the mentality going into it of being ready to get stuff done” is helpful.

Homework Project may be at its best when you know other people there: people who can both keep you on track while you’re working and spend time with during breaks. Jake recommends recruiting folks to join you if needed, because “it's always more motivating.”

Finally, “my number one tip is get out of the school between the end of school and start of Homework Project,” says Jake, who would typically go out with the same people for a walk or to get coffee. Sofía agrees: “It can be hard to be at school practically the whole day, so it's important to take a break from the building, breathe fresh air, and think about something other than school.” 

Do you have more questions? Feel free to reach out to Homework Project Coordinator Ms. Haber.