School

Getting the girls into school was not quite as easy as we hoped it would be.  We knew we wanted them in a local school so that they could have that local experience.

Let me start by saying, the school system over is here different than back home.  You don't automatically go to the closest school, but apply for a spot at schools that you prefer.  Then the county will place the kids.  All this needs to be done before the schools close for the summer (about mid-July) because no one works in the offices during summer holiday.  Then you are pretty much on a 6 week wait until offices open back up, the day before school starts.

So upon arriving here, we knew we had a tight window to find a house and a school nearby.  We got lucky, found our house quickly, got our list of schools ready, and applications submitted!  The original deadline for letting us know placement came and went.  I got in contact with the county, there had been some issues come up and they would be late with placements.  By this point we had a week before schools let out.  Finally we heard that there were issues getting the girls placed at the same school.  Two different schools were not preferable.  

Needless to say, we didn't hear anything before school let out.  I had been in contact with the county several times and there just wasn't much they could do until schools opened back up, but they were doing everything they could.  

I had pretty much assumed that the girls would not be attending school on the first day since we hadn't heard anything.  I was crushed that they wouldn't get to see their new school or meet their new teacher before kids went back.

We finally got word the afternoon before the first day of school that the girls had a place at the same school.  The girls and I were in London at the time, so Zach rushed over to the school to check it out and meet the teachers.  It was so wonderful to let the girls know that they were going to school the next day!

The first day of school finally arrived.  

That morning we were able to go in a little early and let the girls see their new school and meet their teachers.  That afternoon, both reported having made new friends and having a great day!  While it wasn't an easy process, I am so thankful that they are together and enjoying their new school.