The school bells are ringing, and a new academic year is approaching. For most parents, this means shopping for supplies, coordinating schedules, and preparing their kids for new challenges. But if you’re recently divorced, back-to-school season can feel like navigating uncharted waters. You’re not alone in this journey, and with the right guidance, you can make this transition smoother for both you and your children.

Divorce shakes up the foundation of family life, and its effects ripple through every aspect of your routine. When school starts, these changes become even more apparent. You might not know how to handle parent-teacher conferences, who’ll attend school events, or how to manage homework time between two households. These concerns are valid, and addressing them head-on is crucial for your children’s academic achievement and success.

Georgia and Custody After Divorce

In Georgia, the courts prioritize the best interests of the child in all custody decisions. This law (O.C.G.A. § 19-9-3) means that your children’s emotional and psychological well-being is paramount. You can’t go wrong if you keep your child’s well-being at the front of your mind and in every decision you make. Your ability to co-parent effectively and provide a stable environment will significantly impact your children’s postdivorce adjustment to their new reality.

In Georgia, child custody arrangements are typically detailed in a parenting plan, which becomes part of your divorce decree. This plan should address education-related issues, but if you find it lacking as you face the realities of the school year, you may need to revisit it.

Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 19-9-1) requires that parenting plans include provisions for the child’s education. If your current plan doesn’t adequately address school-related issues, you might need to modify it. This is where having a knowledgeable Atlanta child custody lawyer becomes invaluable.

Creating a Co-Parenting Plan

Establishing a solid co-parenting plan is one of the most critical steps in preparing for the school year. This plan should outline how you and your ex-spouse will handle school-related responsibilities. What should your parenting plan outline?

• Communication with the school: Decide who will be the primary contact for school communications. Ideally, both parents should be included in all correspondence.
• Attendance at school events: Work out a schedule for parent-teacher conferences, school performances, and other events. If possible, attend important events together to show your children a united front.
• Homework and study schedules: Establish consistent rules for homework time across both households. This consistency can help your children maintain their academic performance despite the changes in their home life.
• Extra-curricular activities: Discuss how you’ll handle sign-ups, transportation, and attendance for after-school activities.
• School expenses: Clarify who will be responsible for various school-related costs, from supplies to field trips.

Remember, flexibility is key. Your co-parenting plan should be a living document that evolves as your children’s needs change.

An experienced Atlanta child custody attorney can help you if you need to modify a custody order or interpret an existing parenting plan. They can also advise you on your rights and responsibilities regarding your children’s education post-divorce.

For instance, both parents generally have the right to access their children’s educational records, regardless of custody arrangements. If you’re facing any obstacles in this area, a child custody attorney can help assert your rights and ensure you remain an active participant in your children’s academic lives.

Who Pays for School Items?

The back-to-school season often brings a flurry of expenses – new clothes, school supplies, technology, and activity fees can quickly add up. Post-divorce, these costs can feel even more daunting as you adjust to managing a single-income household.

Review your divorce agreement to understand how these expenses should be divided. If the agreement isn’t clear, or if circumstances have changed, you should have a conversation with your ex-spouse about sharing these costs equitably.

Consider creating a dedicated back-to-school budget. This can help you plan and avoid financial stress as the school year approaches. Don’t forget to factor in ongoing yearly expenses, such as lunch money, field trips, and school projects.

Supporting Your Children’s Academic Success

Divorce can impact children’s academic performance, but with the right support, they can thrive despite the changes in their family structure. Encourage your kids to talk about their feelings regarding school and the divorce. Listen without judgment and offer reassurance.

Establish consistent homework and study times, regardless of which parent they’re with. In addition, attend school events, volunteer if possible, and maintain regular contact with teachers to stay informed about your children’s progress.

It’s crucial to inform your children’s school about your divorce. This allows teachers and administrators to be sensitive to your children’s needs and alert you to any concerning changes in behavior or academic performance.

Provide the school with updated contact information for both parents and clarify who should be contacted in various situations. If there are any custody-related restrictions on who can pick up your children from school, ensure the administration is aware of these.

Most schools are experienced in dealing with divorced families and can offer resources to help your children adjust. Don’t hesitate to ask about counseling services or support groups that might be available.

Contact Our Atlanta Child Custody Lawyers

Remember, divorce doesn’t define your family – it’s just a change in its structure. With patience, understanding, and the right support, you can help your children have a successful school year and lay the groundwork for their continued academic and personal growth.

If you’re concerned about how the new school year might impact your parenting plan or your child custody, call Hobson & Hobson, P.C. today. Call our child custody law firm at (770) 284-6153 today or fill out our confidential contact form to learn more!