Parenting Classes are required for all divorcing couples who have minor children
The State of Tennessee requires all divorcing parents to complete a parent education course. The class is not about parenting skills, rather it focuses on the effects of divorce on children and what you can do to minimize the negative impacts on your family. In Knox County the course you take depends on the court in which you file. If your divorce is filed in Chancery Court, the minimum 4 hour course from any certified provider is acceptable. If you file in Fourth Circuit Court then you are are required to complete a 12 hour course with one of their approved providers.
Dove Family Services, 865-221-7014
The website highlights that the classes strive to assist families with education to reduce the stress of divorce and improve the quality of life for all individuals. The instructor is willing to schedule private classes by request and though it is recommended that couples do not attend the same seminar this instructor is willing to consider those requests. They offer both the 4 and 12 hour course as well as a 9 hour course for never-married parents.
STEPS Co-Parenting Divorce Education, 865-981-7900 Steps offers the 4 hour course. Their website shows the schedule, discusses their philosophy, and allows you to pay online. You will need to call or e-mail to actually sign up for the class. They make it easy to schedule missed classes and are extremely child centered.
Pellissippi State Community College, 539-7167 They offer the 4-hour class that is approved for both Blount & Knox County (Chancery Court). Classes are typically offered once monthly on Thursday evenings at the Magnolia Avenue and Pellissippi Campuses, and Saturday mornings at the Pellissippi Campus. Call to register.
Download the State of Tennessee Parenting Plan Form Here
Dove Family Services, 865-221-7014
The website highlights that the classes strive to assist families with education to reduce the stress of divorce and improve the quality of life for all individuals. The instructor is willing to schedule private classes by request and though it is recommended that couples do not attend the same seminar this instructor is willing to consider those requests. They offer both the 4 and 12 hour course as well as a 9 hour course for never-married parents.
STEPS Co-Parenting Divorce Education, 865-981-7900 Steps offers the 4 hour course. Their website shows the schedule, discusses their philosophy, and allows you to pay online. You will need to call or e-mail to actually sign up for the class. They make it easy to schedule missed classes and are extremely child centered.
Pellissippi State Community College, 539-7167 They offer the 4-hour class that is approved for both Blount & Knox County (Chancery Court). Classes are typically offered once monthly on Thursday evenings at the Magnolia Avenue and Pellissippi Campuses, and Saturday mornings at the Pellissippi Campus. Call to register.
Download the State of Tennessee Parenting Plan Form Here
Parent Education courses should be completed as soon as possible.
It took some time for you to decide to divorce your spouse. That means your children have most likely been exposed to the tension, negativity, and breakdown in communication between their parents. Ideally you should complete your Parent Education prior to mediation as it will help you design a stronger co-parenting agreement. Because couples learn communication skills in this course it has sometimes lead to reconciliation - however that is not a goal of the class.
