Howard County schools - autism (Columbia: renting, neighborhoods, buy)

[AnnArbor12]

Hello- we are moving to Maryland this year for my husband's job (in Columbia). My 6 year old has mild autism. We are looking for recommendations about school districts that have good special education services, as well as all-around good schools. We are also a little confused about the school ratings in Howard County - we've been told that all HoCo schools are good but many don't have ratings that are that good. Is this due to the achievement gap? Any help will be greatly appreciated.Thanks in advance.

[J_Lurk]

I'd suggest you reach out to the Howard County Autism Society; they also have a Facebook group. Main Index - Howard County Autism Society Different folks have different experiences of schools and you'll get more personal stories there. My child has PDD-NOS and once we got a 504 we did fine in the elementary school she attended, but I know folks with an autism diagnosis who felt strongly that the same elementary did not provide the support they needed. Yes, the difference in Howard County schools is very much driven by the achievement gap. Also, note that because of growth the Howard County schools redistrict fairly frequently, and you can't count on attending the school that was your assignment at the time you buy a property. The next redistricting will probably be when the new elementary school near Turf Valley opens.

[cjmeck]

I live and work in Howard County (and have contacts with the HoCo Autism Society if you need recommendations message me).

Don't get too hung up on the school ratings; I know its easier said than done when you're evaluating an unknown area. They only measure the state test scores, nothing else. The curriculum is more or less the same across the county. Additionally, due to years of growth outpacing infrastructure development, we are treated to "redistricting" every couple of years. People buy in one neighborhood because they want their kids to go to "xyz" school only to have that neighborhood moved to a different school. The boundary lines don't necessarily make logical sense; they're supposed to keep contiguous neighborhoods together and factor into balancing FARM numbers but that has not been true across the board. This is a very big hot button issue right now in Howard County.

That said, I'm happy with the schools and love Howard County. I know people with kids in "high performing" schools who are miserable and many others in "lower ranked" schools who are thriving. And many people move into the district with kids on the autism spectrum. My own kids have IEPs/504s. Its such a big, diverse district with so many resources. Have you been able to visit any of the schools you're considering? I think its great to stop in and talk with the principal or guidance counselor if you're able. If you're coming from out of state, I'd consider renting for a year to get your feet wet and learn about the different villages of Columbia.

Welcome!

[Tortiq]

Hello,
We are currently looking at moving into the county this year and would love resources about which schools are best for autistic kids (our kid is autistic and non-verbal). Any referral to the HoCo Autism Society would be appreciated.
Thanks