Homework has been a staple of education for over a century, but research on its effectiveness is surprisingly mixed. A 2006 study by Duke University found that homework's impact on elementary students is negligible, yet schools continue to pile it on. Some argue it builds discipline and reinforces learning, while others say it widens the gap between kids with resources and those without. Given the rising mental health issues among students, isn't it time we reconsider whether traditional homework truly benefits academic achievement?