School Contracts

What is it with parents these days. Just registered my nephew in school. Sent home packets for us to sign saying we would read with our student every day. Help with and go over his homework with him, read with him, give him possitive encouragement. .... ect.....
I thought this was a part of normal child rearing. If you didn't want this responceability then why did you have em. Our kids are our future. DO YOUR JOB so they can one day help take care of you.