possible relocation to Notre Dame (South Bend, Granger: environment, health, houses)

[dbcox1313]

Hi,
My husband is interviewing at ND, we currently live in Hawaii. I know most would think we are crazy for even thinking about moving, but believe me paradise isn't all it's cracked up to be! Anyway, here's the deal, we have adopted three special needs children (two of which have autism of varying levels, one high functioning the other with mixed disability). We have had great difficulty here getting services for each of them and on top of that there is a cultural difference that plays a role when you are in this position. Our sons are Filipino (we are both white), that is not an issue here though. My questions are these, how is the DOE in regard to special education, does anyone out there have experience with the DOE in the ND area, what schools are the best and closest to ND. Where is the closest best area to look for houses, does anyone know of an ABA/VB therapist, are there any DAN doctors there, is racism an issue there (I realize there is some everywhere, but is the area diverse enough that it wouldn't be a huge issue), are there good health food stores or organic farms anywhere?
Thanks,
Donna

[domergurl]

The Penn Harris Madison school district would be your best bet, in Granger. It's near ND and many employees live there. Here is the district's website:

News from Penn-Harris-Madison — Penn Harris Madison School Corporation

As for racism ... I wouldn't get too stressed out about it. South Bend/Granger is pretty diverse. You'll find ig-nernt buttheads anywhere, but you'll find the ND environment very welcoming.