Choosing schools in Collierville, TN (Germantown, Winchester: neighborhoods, middle schools, relocating to)

[saffer]

We will be relocating to Collierville from South Africa and would love some advice on choosing the right schools for our children. They are currently at a private school in South Africa, and we are looking at Schilling Farms Middle School, Collierville High School, Briarcrest, and St George's. We have a daughter in High School and a son in Middle School. Our son has high functioning autism, so would need a great support program for that. Our must-have items for a prospective school would be: knowledgeable, caring teachers, excellent support for our son (RTI/ Special Ed), inclusive, welcoming community, and down-to-earth parent body (we are not interested in the stereotypical, overcompetitive private school snobs). We would love to hear your thoughts and experiences with these schools - thank you in advance!

[Geneyus]

Schilling Farms Middle School (off Winchester Rd) moved to the old high school location a few years ago and became "West Collierville Middle". The old SFMS building is now "Schilling Farms Elementary School (K-5th). There are two public middle schools in Collierville called: Collierville Middle (580 Quinn Rd) and West Collierville Middle (1101 N Byhalia Rd). It's confusing that they named them so similar. Collierville Middle is more diverse, but both schools are equally great. I'm a big fan of the Collierville High principal, Roger Jones.
With public schools, you'll probably get the "down-to-Earth" parents you're looking for, because those schools serve all neighborhoods. There will be a wide variety of families. They have "Individual Education Plans" (IEP) and will do what they can to adjust to student needs.
Personally, I would give public schools in Collierville a try before you pay for private school. Collierville schools are often ranked amongst the best in TN.

If you look at Germantown, TN (also great schools), just know that Germantown Elementary/Middle/High are not run by Germantown government. Those 3 schools are run by the county system.

[saffer]

Thank you for your response. I discovered the change in Collierville Middle Schools and was surprised by how many websites haven't been updated!

[Crazybreakfast]

So sorry this is so late, but for your son, I'd consider sending him to Lausanne. I think they do a fantastic job creating a wonderful environment for their students. I'm an alum and loved my time there. However, I have heard it has changed some- it is at least worth a visit though and seeing if it fits with what you need.
Best of luck!

[saffer]

Thank you for your feedback!