Gearing Up for the School Year

As the summer draws to a close and the school year approaches, parents everywhere are preparing for the hustle and bustle that comes with getting their children back into the swing of things. For military families, this process can often be filled with unique challenges but also wonderful opportunities.

Family had the privilege of chatting with Paulette Fryar, a remarkable military spouse and family advocate who has dedicated her time and energy to supporting and connecting military families. In this article, Paulette shares her personal experiences and reflections on preparing her children for the school year, how her approach has evolved over time, and the valuable insights she wishes she had known earlier.

Paulette is the spouse of Captain Troy Fryar of the United States Coast Guard. Capt. Fryar has been on active duty for 34 years, and he is currently located at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, DC. The Fryar’s have four grown sons, as part of a blended family for the last 17 years: Westin Fryar, 26; Jacob Todd, 26; Casey Todd, 24; and Rhys Fryar, 23.

Is there something particular you would do with your kiddos before school started?

Usually, during the summer, we would report to a new duty station. So, the first thing I would do prior to school starting would be to find places where they would be able to make some connections and have friends before the first day of school, such as church groups and sports organizations. This helped them to acclimate faster.

Also, as a spouse, gearing up for the school year can mean finding those places to plug in and serve. Which opens connections even more! And don’t feel like you must serve a lot. Since my children have left the nest, I have more opportunities to serve my military family community. But every little bit helps you find your people. From 2020-2021 I was the Armed Forces Insurance Overall Military Spouse of the Year, plus the Armed Forces Insurance Coast Guard Spouse of the Year. Currently, I serve on the Mission:MilSpouse Board Member 2022-present and the National Council of Coast Guard Spouse Clubs Executive Board Member 2022-present. And I have served as a Military Mother’s Of Preschoolers International (MOPS Intl.) Mentor 2017-2023. These are a few of the organizations that I volunteer for. I am a huge advocate for connection and support for Military Spouses, as I believe that no one should do this military life alone. #TogetherWeAreStronger

Looking back, is there something you wish you would’ve known that you think might help a parent as they get back into the swing of things?

Yes! Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask about resources. There are so many resources available to all military families. And it doesn’t matter what branch of service your service member is in, either. We are a Coast Guard family, and we have never lived on a base. Oftentimes, this kept us pretty isolated from other Coast Guard families in general. Even though I’m a volunteer and advocate, years ago, I did not realize the amount of resources available to Coast Guard families from the other branches. Some groups include Operation Home Front, Military MOPS, USO programs, and so many more! Plus, you may find your dearest friends when you start reaching out and connecting. And the same goes for your children. Finding those personal connections before school starts will help the entire family transition smoothly.