wanting to move to Baltimore area (Columbia: houses, neighborhoods, public schools)

[vicki panther]

Hi, my name is Vicki and I currently live in the mid-west. My husband's business is going to require us to move to the northeast, near D.C. area. We have a 10 year old son with high functioning autism and a 5 year old that that doesn't have any special needs. I'm looking forward to the move back east because the midwest has never been very open to my oldest son, i.e. not very socially accepted by his peers at his school etc... . We are hoping that the more cultural diverse nature of the northeast, as well as the awareness of autism in that area due to the Kennedy Kreiger Institute would make for more social openness and acceptance. We obviously need good schools and tolerance for special needs kiddos. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Also my son with autism has good language and is very social and no behavior issues in school. Thanks

[Rennfam]

Hi Vicky.
There are some great places in Baltimore to consider - it is a city of neighborhoods. As such you need to choose the correct one for your lifestyle. The diversity and city life can be great although as the world knows, public transportation here is awful.

One point which will probably not make me very popular here is that you should resign yourself to private education - Balt. City public schools are struggling. Therefore what I would do is look at schools then search for neighborhoods.

If you narrow down your search, I'll be glad to provide you my humble opinion.

KB

[sirc625]

I'm not sure what your income level is, but Columbia would be a great area for you to look. Close to D.C. and Baltimore and a great school system. However, because of this the houses also have great big price tags.