School - Who Decides?
When parties separate, there are many decisions that still need to be made for the children. Day to day decisions (such as what a child eats, if the child is unwell and kept home from daycare or school) can be made without the need to discuss with the other party (although any illness should be communicated to the other party within a reasonable time). Major decisions of a long term nature however, are usually made jointly with the other party, which is known as equal shared parental responsibility.
These major long-term decisions include:
Where a child lives;
Where a child goes to school;
A child’s name;
Whether a child will be vaccinated; and
Whether a child will be of a religious upbringing.
When parents separate, there is a presumption of equal shared parental responsibility, although there are some exceptions, such as domestic and family violence. Therefore, generally both parties need to make a genuine effort to come to a joint decision regarding the school the child will attend.
Beginning a new school year can be stressful for families going through separation and divorce. There are many things that should be worked out between both parents regarding your child before the start of the school year.
Discuss who will purchase and cover the cost of school supplies and technology. Will your child get a tablet or mobile phone this year? Discuss significant purchases first.
Share the first day of school drop off. If your ex-partner cannot be there, take photos and share them with the other parent.
Set up a shared family calendar such as Google Calendar or use co-parenting apps such as Our Family Wizard or 2Houses to assist with communication and to record school events, activities and healthcare appointments.
Attend parent teacher interviews together to stay on the same page with your ex-partner regarding your child’s education.
We know at Shorestone Legal that back to school is a significant part of parenting plans. If you require further advice or assistance with your parenting plan call us for an informative fixed fee consult.
