The 2020-2021 school year is filled with uncertainty. Will students be allowed to return? Will they be sent home after a few days or weeks? And how will you balance your job and your child’s education? With the Coronavirus pandemic causing so much unpredictably, here’s what you can do to plan!
Tips for Balancing Your Job and the School Year
Talk to Your Employer
Your first step should be to clarify your job expectations. Can you work from home? And for how long? Will you need to be available at certain hours? Or can you adjust your schedule to accommodate your child’s school day? Someone who must be on-site from nine to five every weekday will need to make different arrangements than someone who can work remotely with flexible hours. In addition, if you feel as though you are in an impossible situation, ask about the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. The FFCRA extends up to ten weeks of paid leave (at two thirds’ pay) to employees who can’t work because their children’s school or daycare is closed due to coronavirus.
Explore Alternative Methods of Schooling
Maybe you are concerned about sending your child back to the classroom? Maybe you hate the idea of virtual learning? Or maybe you know you can’t juggle your job AND your child’s education? Depending on the situation, you may wish to consider any of the following options.
- Private School – While many public schools are switching over to virtual or hybrid models, many private schools are continuing to provide in-person instruction. However, tuition costs make this option unrealistic for some families.
- Homeschooling – If you can take time off from work and/or switch over to a more flexible schedule, homeschooling may be your best choice. You could follow the curriculum set by your child’s current school or explore other homeschooling programs.
- A Full or Part-time Private Tutor – For many parents, the idea of educating their own children is overwhelming. If you suspect you’ll need help, you may decide to find a tutor. Although some people prefer to hire certified teachers, a college student or a retiree could be just as effective and more affordable.
- Learning Pods – In an effort to manage both costs and responsibilities, some families are joining forces and forming learning or pandemic pods. These are small, in-person groups of children learning together. Parents may either split the cost and hire a tutor or share homeschooling duties. If you think a learning pod could be right for you, reach out to like-minded families within your community.
Set Ground Rules
Whatever your family decides, you’ll need to establish clear guidelines. For example, everyone should stick to a workday/school day schedule even when you’re working/learning from home. Creating designated office and classroom spaces can be beneficial also.
Are You Looking for a More Family-Friendly Job During the 2020-2021 School Year?
The expert recruiters at BOS Staffing can help you find the right job to fit your current lifestyle. We placed talented employees in Atlanta, GA, and beyond. Learn more about the advantages of job searching through BOS Staffing today!
