What about Howard County schools?

[Anonymous]

I don't see much mentioned on this site about Howard County schools. As an overall, are they good? We live in Anne Arundel County and I'm not really happy with my public school options. We like Columbia but don't know much about the schools. What are the good elementary schools and what neighborhoods should I look at? Thanks.

[Anonymous]

Howard County schools are excellent. There are some crime problems at certain high schools. I'd probably avoid the Long Reach area without some closer research.

This is just my opinion: River Hill, Centennial, Glenelg, Atholton, and Mt. Hebron are all very good. Wild Lake and Oakland Mills are in the "next tier." I don't know much about Reservoir.

[Anonymous]

PP is mainly talking about differences btw. schools located in the eastern and western sections of the county. West is zoned for larger pieces of property, which draws in the wealthy.

There tends to be more diversity on the eastern side (cultural and socioeconomic).

Despite the differences, the entire system is well run b/c it's smaller - thanks to the smart growth practiced by Ho. Co. Furthermore, they are very inclusive when it comes to teaching students in special education.

Check out the county's website if you haven't already done so. http://www.hcpss.org/