For New Jersey parents who are going through a divorce or are newly divorced, back-to-school time may be far more complicated this year than it has been in the past. There are many decisions to be made at this time of year that will affect your children and their education.

One of the things that should be considered when parents are approaching a divorce is whether the children will continue attending the same school. In many cases, divorcing parents will sell their marital home and both parents will move into new homes.

In such cases, it may be difficult, if not impossible, for the children to remain in the school that they attended while their parents were married. This situation also coincides with child custody issues, and specifically which parent the child will live with during the school year.

This issue will require a well-thought out plan, one that may need to be settled in a relatively short period of time. As always, it is most important to consider what is in the best interest of the child when making these tough life-changing decisions. In this regard, it may be helpful to consult with the child about his or her feelings on the matter, but the final decision should always be left to the parents who can hopefully reach an amicable resolution together.

Obviously emotions can get in the way, especially if parents are not on the best of terms. However, considering the best options for your children’s education should be given great weight so that the child can be have the best outcome possible during and after a divorce.

Source: Huffington Post, “Back To School Advice For Divorced Parents,” Sheree Fletcher, Aug. 29, 2012