Back to School: What to Know if You are Going Through a Divorce

It is that time of year again that all parents look forward to all summer – Back to School! But if your family is transitioning through a divorce, the excitement of going back to school may also include the stress from children living in separate households. Below are a few common problems that may arise:

Back to School Supplies – A common debate among separating families is who is responsible for the cost for school supplies? Often the question arises because one parent has purchased all the supplies and has requested reimbursement from the other parent. If that other parent is paying child support, that parent may even express opposition to sharing in this cost arguing it should be covered by the support payment. While there is no right to reimbursement for school supplies as a separate category, the supplies are for the benefit of your child and it should be shared between the parents especially if there is a disparity in income between the households.

Teacher and Class Contacts – Another area of frustration is communication from the teacher or school to the parents. Parents have a right and responsibility to make decisions regarding their children’s education but often one parent has been tasked with managing all communication regarding the children’s education. While this approach may work during the marriage, it can become a source of friction after separation especially if one parent is expected to continue to manage the children’s schedule and update the other parent. Instead, co-parenting requires both parents to engage in the domestic responsibilities of parenting which includes being on classroom email chains and reading school bulletins.

After School Activities – Many schools offer a range of after school activities including child care and sports which can enrich a child’s education experience but most of them are fee based and may require transportation or parent involvement. Generally, the law treats these enrichment activities as extra expenses and may require both parents to share in the cost so long as both parents consent to the child’s participation. However, both parents are likely to share in any child care costs related to either employment or training related to seeking employment.

If you are going through a separation, keep in mind that Back to School is an exciting time for families and does not have to be stressful if you follow the tips above.