Free Co-Parenting Course for Rural Families Starts This Fall

September 25, 2026 - 21:03

Strengthening Rural Families will offer a free co-parenting class for separated and divorced parents on Tuesday evenings at Clemens Primary School starting Oct. 13.

The program is designed for parents who are living apart and want to reduce conflict while keeping their children's needs at the center of family decisions. Sessions run for several weeks and cover communication skills, shared scheduling, handling disagreements, and ways to shield children from adult disputes.

Organizers say the class is open to parents at any stage of separation or divorce, whether the split happened recently or years ago. Participants do not need a court referral to enroll. The setting is informal, and instructors focus on practical tools that parents can use right away rather than abstract theory.

Child care is not provided during the sessions, so parents are encouraged to arrange care in advance. Space is limited, and registration is required before the first meeting. Those interested can contact the organization directly to sign up or ask questions about the curriculum.

Similar classes in rural areas have drawn steady interest because affordable legal and counseling services are often far away. By meeting weekly at a local school, the program aims to remove barriers such as travel distance and cost. Instructors note that co-parenting education can lower stress for children and make everyday routines more predictable.

The fall session begins Oct. 13 and continues on Tuesday evenings. Parents who complete the course receive a certificate of attendance, which some courts accept as proof of participation.