Parent-Teacher conferences give parents important insight into not only how their child is performing academically and what they should be working on at home, but also what, if any, behavioral issues may be arising. When these conferences occur during or after a divorce, other challenging factors come into play. Divorcing parents should take steps to prevent conflict and undue harm for their child.
Regardless of whether a Parent-Teacher conference is close at hand, parents should inform their child’s teacher of the divorce proceedings. Having a heads-up allows the teacher to watch for signs of negative impact the divorce may be having on their child.
When it is time for conferences, one of the main issues to address is attendance.
If parents are still cordial with one another, they can attend parent-teacher conferences together. This allows both of them to hear the same information and responses to questions the other may ask.
For parents in this situation:
- Agree to keep disagreements out of the classroom.
- Ensure there aren’t any secrets being kept from one another (such as plans to move) that may come out during a parent-teacher conference.
- Avoid fighting with each other before, during or after the conference when your child is within earshot.
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If the parents have a hostile and antagonistic relationship, sitting together in a conference setting will likely not be a productive way to learn about their child’s progress.
For parents in this situation:
- Be sure the teacher notifies both parents what days and times are available for a conference.
- Each parent should be responsible for scheduling their own individual conference time with the teacher- even if it is on a different day.
- If one parent is unavailable, or opts not to set up a conference, the other parent should take notes on what is discussed and send it to them.
- If the teacher can’t schedule separate conferences, consider requesting a phone conference. If a phone conference cannot be scheduled, then the teacher may provide an e-mail address so that questions and issues regarding your children can be addressed in that fashion.
- Always remember that this is about your child’s education, well-being and ultimately their future, not about your divorce.
Parent-Teacher conferences are one of a myriad of issues parents will have to address during or after their divorce. More and more divorcing parents are enlisting the expertise of experienced family law attorneys, such as Charles Jamieson, to help them navigate these types of situations. With an experienced divorce attorney’s help, parents can work collaboratively to do what is best for their children.
Board Certified Marital and Family Law Attorney Charles D. Jamieson understands that divorce is an extremely sensitive and important issue. Thanks to extensive experience and a focus on open communication, Attorney Jamieson adeptly addresses the complex issues surrounding divorce while delivering excellent personal service. To discuss divorce in Florida, please contact The Law Firm of Charles D. Jamieson, P.A.The Law Firm of Charles D. Jamieson, P.A. or call 561-478-0312.
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