Reply to Overwhelmed - How does public school system in MD work, and how research "best" schools?

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Reply to "Overwhelmed - How does public school system in MD work, and how research "best" schools?"

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[quote=Anonymous]My son will  no start kindergarten until 2016, but we are going to be moving hopefully this year and I need to take his schooling into account in deciding where to live.  I know where I like as far as commutes, safety, "charm," and convenience - but am at a loss regarding schools.  Where I grew up there were a handful of elementary schools then everyone went to the same middle and high school.  There were no "special" programs in one school but not another.

I am assuming that if we live within a county's boundaries my son will go to that county's school system without doing anything more.  But I came across some people talking about testing and lotteries to get into certain schools (I think in MoCo) with "special" programs.  I understand testing to get into advanced classes, but what's with the lottery?

And what are the best resources for determining the "best" schools?  I know about greatschools.org and know that Zillow does a school rating on its listings.  And of course I can look at test scores (which I personally find only partially accurate).  Arts, sports and extracurricular activities are also important to us - and I've heard not all the schools offer the same things.

I really know nothing - so I apologize if my questions are obvious or don't even make sense.  We are currently looking in MoCo (which is just so huge!) and near Annapolis.  (on a side note if anyone has ever lived in or know anyone who has/does live near there I'd love to pick their brain about it and the commute to DC!)

I am a clueless, first time parent kind of freaking out about choosing the happiest median place for my son to grow and thrive - and all advice is really appreciated! [/quote]

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