Section 8.11 Education Expenses

• Library: Family Law Deskbook and 2014 Supp

E. (§8.11) Education Expenses

Postsecondary Educational Expenses: With regard to the postsecondary educational expense of the children—defined as postsecondary college, university, vocational, or technical school, whether state or private—each party will pay a portion of the children’s postsecondary educational expenses based on each party’s proportionate income as determined by the then applicable child support chart.

a. “Postsecondary educational expenses” include the then current cost of tuition, fees, books, and costs for room and board. It does not include room and board while residing with either parent.

b. The “postsecondary educational expenses” that the parents are responsible for paying are the actual cost for a child—i.e., if a child receives a scholarship or other aid that reduces postsecondary education expenses, the parties’ obligation to pay “postsecondary educational expenses” will also be reduced. For this purpose, loans to a child are not to be considered a scholarship or other aid.

c. A child must carry a minimum of at least twelve credit hours each semester. The parents agree that a
child should not be employed during the first year of college while classes are in session. Following the
first year, the parents and child will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of part-time employment during college. The parents acknowledge that current Missouri law (§ 452.340.5, RSMo) provides that support will continue for a child taking as few as nine credit hours...