Private High school options for child with ADHD/Anxiety

[Anonymous]

We are looking for 2022. Our 7th grade DD has trouble focusing on tasks, following instructions, and other ADHD symptoms. She also has anxiety/worry. Her current school ends in 8th grade and we think she would flounder in a large public high school. We've identified Commonwealth Academy, New School of Northern Virginia, and Field as options. Christian schools are not an option for us. Any comments on these schools, or other possibilities? Given where we live, DC, Alexandria, Arlington, Eastrern Fairfax would work, Western Fairfax, Loudon and Maryland likely not.

[Anonymous]

Have you considered Fusion?

[Anonymous]

Add Burke to your list.

[Anonymous]

GW Community School was recommended to us, for a similar profile. It's too far away, so we didn't look at it.

Also look at Nora, if the location is possible for you.

[Anonymous]

Parkmont?

[Anonymous]

Commonwealth is a strong option if you can get in.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Add Burke to your list.

Is this referring to FCPS Burke school????

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Add Burke to your list.

Is this referring to FCPS Burke school????

Not the PP, but I'm sure they were referring to the private school in DC.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Parkmont?

+1

[Anonymous]

Mclean School in Potomac MD 100%

[Anonymous]

OP, is your child medicated for the ADHD? Most, if not all schools, special needs or not, will most likely highly suggest/require that based on your child’s profile that you mentioned. This is so that your child can access the curriculum. I would say this is especially true in high school if your child has not been previously medicated and has not been successful at school. My 2 suggestions would be Commonwealth in Virginia and McLean in Potomac.

[Anonymous]

The issue is really degree of impairment from the anxiety and adhd because that will decide class size needed and level of support needed in terms of school counselor, etc. of course sometimes a child who seems really impaired in the public school can not need much at a small private school that accommodates special needs so it's not a perfect science judging the right fit.Also, how does she test cognitively? That is definitely a factor when applying. Does she make friends easily? Will she need social skills support there?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Mclean School in Potomac MD 100%

+ 1. Great school.

[Anonymous]

You should also consider Howard Gardner. It was a lifesaver for our ADD/high anxiety kid.

[Anonymous]

Oakton (the private school-there is a also a public school with the same name) will accommodate.

What is the full profile?

How does the anxiety affect her? You said there are issues following directions. Are there language issues too or is it purely attentional? How does she do in school? Is she behind by more than a grade-level? How does she test on the WISC-low, average, above average or gifted? (Most schools mentioned are reluctant to work with below average). Does she get along well in school? Are there behavioral and social issues? Most schools don't want to work with behavioral issues unless VERY mild.

You don't have to answer any of these questions. These are what an ed consultant might ask and then the person would meet your child too. It's just you can say any diagnosis and sure some kids with those diagnoses thrive at these schools, others don't and some don't get in at all. It's all a matter of severity and level and need.