Maybe the upcoming school year will be the first one where you and your ex will be parenting separately. Maybe you’ve been doing that for some time, but one or both of you has moved, and you’ll be seeing your child less than you previously did.
Whatever the situation (assuming you still have full parental rights), if you are going to have significantly less time with your child than in prior school years, you’re likely concerned about how you’re going to remain involved in their education and other school-related activities. It’s easy to get out of the loop if you don’t make a proactive effort to remain engaged – especially if you and your child are living some distance apart.
Certainly, it’s helpful if your co-parent is also committed to your continued involvement. However, even if they don’t make the effort, there are things you can do on your own that can help.
Meet the adults who will be guiding your child at school
If you can, introduce yourself to your child’s teacher(s), coaches, extracurricular advisors and counselors as early as possible. If you can’t do it in person, see if you can schedule video calls or at least communicate via text or email.
Be sure they have your phone number and other contact information. Let them know that you want to be included on all communications regarding your child.
Be sure the school has your current information
Teachers and others can be hesitant about contacting divorced parents if they aren’t certain about the custody arrangements. That’s why it’s crucial that the school administrators have all the information they need to include you in parent-teacher conferences (even if you can only be there virtually) and school events as well as any communications regarding assignments, grades and disciplinary matters. Often, there’s an online parent portal you can access to get information.
Talk with your child about school
It’s important for your child to know that you’re interested in what’s going on at school and how they’re doing. Focus on the positive as well as any areas where may need to improve. Children typically do better in school when both parents are interested and involved
It can help for you and your co-parent to codify your responsibilities to your child and each other regarding school in your parenting plan. Having experienced legal guidance will help you create or modify your plan to help ensure that you are able to provide consistent support without preventable complications and misunderstandings inspiring unnecessary tension.