An Educational Program for Divorcing Parents
Tennessee has one of the highest divorce rates in the U.S. Because divorce is so common, it may seem like adjustment to divorce has become easier for everyone involved. In reality, divorce is hard for all family members, especially children. Because of concerns about the negative impact of divorce on children, the Tennessee State Legislature passed a law requiring divorcing parents of minor children to attend a parent education program.
University of Tennessee Extension has developed a four-hour program, “Parenting Apart: Effective Co-Parenting,” to help divorcing parents learn how to help their children cope with the issues that arise because of the parents’ divorce. Classes are $40 paid by either check or money order or $50 (CASH only) at the door on the day of class-this is for in-person classes only. If you have filed for and received​ an order of indigence from a court of law, you will need to provided a signed, original order for the class.
We are currently holding classes via Zoom due to Covid-19 and regulations issued by the University of Tennessee. This is the same as in person class as participants as will be required to have a camera and will also have the opportunity to interact with other class participants.
Pre-registration is required. Please see County Events for listing of available classes. Classes are held at the UT-TSU Extension Sullivan County office, unless otherwise noted.
Zoom Guidelines – please read the guidelines for co-parenting classes held via Zoom
Please contact FCS Agent Lydia Hoskins or call 423-574-1919 for more information.
The following topics are covered in the program:
Classes include group discussion, the viewing of videos and lecture. Each participant will receive a booklet about parenting through divorce and a list of local resources. Classes are taught by Extension Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) agents.
Helpful Resources
UT Finances & Divorce
UT Human Development Page
Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts
