When parents divorce, they typically try to ensure that it doesn’t affect their child’s education. It’s often best when kids can remain in their school – at least through the current school year.
Before a new school year begins, however, parents may find they have very different views about where their child should go to school. Most Indiana parents share legal custody as well as physical custody.
Shared legal custody generally requires coming to an agreement
With shared legal custody, they generally both have a say in important matters like medical treatment, religious training and education. If this is the case, co-parents must reach an agreement on where their child will go to school. For example, one parent may want their child to continue in private school (possibly one affiliated with their religion), while the other wants to move them to a public school to save money.
If a child is going into high school, one parent may want them to go to one for kids with special talents or perhaps special needs. One parent may prefer to homeschool their child, while the other wants them in a structured environment surrounded by their peers.
If money is an issue, it’s certainly crucial to acknowledge that and work within the shared budget for a child’s care. Beyond that, if both parents have strong, differing opinions about their child’s education, it will be necessary to arrive at an agreement.
Another option is for parents to split legal custody so that only one parent has the decision-making authority on education – perhaps in exchange for the other parent having that authority over religious upbringing. However, this can be a difficult arrangement to maintain.
Focusing on the child’s best interests
Too many newly divorced parents find themselves fighting battles just because they don’t want to “give in” to their ex’s wishes. That’s why it’s crucial to focus on what is in the child’s best interests and, if they’re old enough, to let them have a say in the matter.
If divorcing parents foresee that this will be an issue, it’s best to work it out as agreements are negotiated. If it arises later, it may be necessary to modify one or more child-related agreements. Either way, it’s important for each parent to have sound legal guidance to help them work toward what’s best for their child.
