What Your Child's School Needs to Know About Your Divorce

What Your Child’s School Needs to Know About Your Divorce

School is back in session, and if you’ve recently finalized a divorce, you may be wondering how this will affect your child’s school. How and when should you talk to the school? How much detail do they need?

It’s generally recommended you don’t wait too long before talking to your child’s teachers and other school officials. Additionally, your child’s teachers could be a key part of your support team, and if they’re aware of your divorce, they could alert you to changes in your child’s normal behavior.

You can ensure your child’s school days run smoothly by informing administrators and teachers of important facts related to your divorce.

Communication is key

First, you need to learn how the school handles sending communications to you and your ex-spouse. You both need to make sure the school has your separate contact information. This way, one of you is not solely responsible for forwarding letters about field trips, parent-teacher conferences or other notices.

It’s no secret

Unlike when you speak with your attorney, whatever information you share with teachers about your divorce is not confidential. A teacher may need to share this information with guidance counselors, the principal, or even your ex spouse, so remember to keep things honest and factual.

Just the facts

It may be tempting to tell your side of the story, but all you need to share are the basic details that your marriage has ended, where your child will be living and with whom, the transportation schedule and if you plan on relocating.

Your child spends upwards of 40 hours per week at school. You want their time there to be as simple, easy and drama-free as possible. It’s important to inform the school of your divorce, and engage in open and honest communication that’s in the best interest of your child.