Back-to-school season is a stressful time for many parents, but for divorced or co-parenting families in Colorado, the challenges can multiply. From shared expenses and school routines to navigating legal responsibilities, there’s a lot to manage. In this guide to co-parenting during back-to-school season, learn the clear, practical steps to help you and your child transition smoothly into the school year.
Legal Overview: Who Makes School Decisions in Colorado?
In Colorado, joint legal custody, legally called decision-making authority, means both parents share the responsibility for important decisions, including education.
Key school-related decisions include:
- School selection or changes
- Approval of IEPs or 504 plans
- Major extracurricular commitments
If your Colorado parenting plan doesn’t specifically address school decisions, but grants joint decision-making in general, you’ll need to reach an agreement with your co-parent. In cases where co-parents can’t agree, you may need to update your parenting plan to clarify responsibilities and ensure the arrangement works best for your child.
Pro Tip: Review your parenting plan together before school starts to clarify how school-related decisions should be handled. If your parenting schedule will shift due to new school hours or extracurriculars, update it accordingly to avoid confusion.
Creating a Smooth School-Year Routine Together
Even if parenting time is equal, the school year adds complexity. Here’s how to stay coordinated:
- Create a shared digital calendar using platforms like OurFamilyWizard or TalkingParents
- Keep household routines consistent across homes—bedtimes, morning routines, homework schedules
- Clarify transportation responsibilities to avoid miscommunication
These strategies are especially important for blended families managing multiple parenting schedules and school commitments.
Pro Tip: Schedule a “back-to-school planning meeting” with your co-parent. Treat it like a team huddle to review schedules, responsibilities, and expectations.
Communicating with Teachers & School Staff
Teachers and administrators need to know how your parenting setup works. Take steps to keep them informed:
- Submit court orders or parenting plans to the school office
- Ensure both parents are listed as emergency contacts (unless restricted)
- Request duplicate communications for grades, events, and announcements
- Present a united, respectful tone when addressing concerns with school staff
Pro Tip: When possible, attend school events together. It shows your child and the school that you’re working as a team.
Managing School Expenses & Extracurricular Activities
Financial planning is essential during the back-to-school season. Avoid misunderstandings by:
- Following your parenting plan’s expense-sharing terms
- Agreeing on sign-ups for extracurriculars ahead of time
- Using tools like Splitwise or SupportPay to track and split costs
Back-to-school costs can add up quickly, and if you’re uncertain about your legal obligations, consult a Colorado family law attorney for clarity on financial responsibilities.
Pro Tip: Just because one parent paid for something last year doesn’t mean it’s automatically the other parent’s turn. Check your agreement and talk it through.
What to Do If Co-Parenting Breaks Down
Even in well-structured co-parenting relationships, issues come up. If one parent forgets a pick-up or doesn’t share important info:
- Communicate directly and respectfully to resolve it
- Focus on your child’s experience, not assigning blame
- Document patterns if needed for future legal steps
Pro Tip: Many disputes can be resolved through mediation. Talk to your attorney if you’re hitting a wall. Co-parenting after divorce in Colorado doesn’t have to be contentious. An experienced family law firm can help facilitate communication or revisit your child custody agreement or parenting plan when needed.
Modifying a Parenting Plan in Colorado
Sometimes your parenting plan needs to evolve with your child’s changing school needs. In Colorado, modifications are possible when they’re in the child’s best interest.
Common reasons for modification include:
- Adjusting for school start/end times
- Academic or behavioral issues
- Missed attendance during one parent’s time
Pro Tip: If you anticipate needing a change, file early. Court processes can take time, especially during the busy back-to-school season.
A New School Year, A Stronger Co-Parenting Foundation
With a little planning and a lot of communication, the school year can be a time of stability and growth for your child. Whether you’re working through logistics or considering a change to your parenting plan, co-parenting during the school year is completely manageable with the right tools and mindset.
Need help reviewing or modifying your parenting plan? At Solutions Based Family Law, we help Colorado families understand their rights and responsibilities through every season of parenting. From mediation to court representation, we’re here to support you. Call us at (720) 420-3610 or Contact Us online to schedule a consultation with an experienced Colorado family law attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who makes school decisions in a joint custody arrangement in Colorado?
In Colorado, when parents share joint legal custody (called decision-making authority), they both must agree on major educational decisions, such as school selection, special education plans, or significant extracurricular activities.
2. Can both co-parents attend parent-teacher conferences?
Yes. Unless there is a specific court order preventing it, both parents have the right to attend parent-teacher conferences, school events, and access school records.
3. How do we handle school expenses if they’re not in the parenting plan?
If your parenting plan doesn’t specify how to divide school-related expenses, try to reach an agreement with your co-parent. If disputes arise, mediation or a formal modification may be necessary.
4. What if my co-parent won’t communicate about school matters?
Start by documenting your attempts to communicate respectfully and clearly. If it affects your child’s well-being or education, consult with your attorney.
5. Can we modify our parenting plan during the school year?
Yes. You can request a modification if it’s in the child’s best interest. Filing early helps minimize disruption, especially during the school year.