A lot of parents prefer privates for ADD or ADhD kids because it is just easier to work with the teachers and administration - and for them to work with the students -- in a smaller environment of private and without the red tape of public schools. Some privates also teach in ways that reduce the need for accommodations (such as routinely allowing kids to take tests using computers so the kids with disgraphia don't need a 504 plan or IEP for just that). Anyone who has had a child with an IEP probably knows how variable that process can be -- and sometimes how frustrating.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

They aren't necessarily but in our case our DC did better with smaller classes, ability to have frequent meetings with teachers, and it was easier to schedule extra time on tests, etc. We were also concerned that at our MCPS (where we have a child so know it very well) he would be in grade level classes rather than AP/honors and that wouldn't be the best fit, but that APs and honors would be too fast a pace. Also in private school our DC only had 5 academic classes rather than 7 so it was just easier to focus and manage.

I'm not sure that you will find a significant difference between expectations in the AP/honors and general education classes between high schools around the county in the core subjects. But, that being said, if you are thinking your son needs additional time on tests and/or other accommodations, you are only going to get that through an IEP or 504 plan. You might want to start that process now.

One last thing, if you are considering moving for a school, the consortium school assignments have already been made so if you want a particular school within a consortium, you have to move into an area where that is the home school in order to be guaranteed your first choice.

Anonymous wrote:Why are private schools better equipped to handle kids with ADHD unless they are specifically chartered to do so?

They aren't necessarily but in our case our DC did better with smaller classes, ability to have frequent meetings with teachers, and it was easier to schedule extra time on tests, etc. We were also concerned that at our MCPS (where we have a child so know it very well) he would be in grade level classes rather than AP/honors and that wouldn't be the best fit, but that APs and honors would be too fast a pace. Also in private school our DC only had 5 academic classes rather than 7 so it was just easier to focus and manage.

ADHD is such a common diagnosis these days that I would think whatever your local high school is will be able to make accomodations and have lots of experience. Make an appointment to meet with the special ed department to discuss what is needed and what they can provide.

Why are private schools better equipped to handle kids with ADHD unless they are specifically chartered to do so?

Op here. I'm in moco now. We would just move if we had to. We in the Rockville high school area now.

Your options are based on where you live. In some areas of the county, there is high school choice, but not all areas. And, the choice is between three schools. There are some specialized high school programs that are available by application and acceptance only, such as Poolesville, Edison and some of the programs at Blair.

Unless you live in the DCC you probably need to consider the one you are zoned for. Sounds like the magnets are probably not going to be a good fit.

We have one in an MCPS HS, but chose to keep our ADHD kid in private school.

DS has ADHD (combination type). He also has slow processing issues. Currently in private mainstreamed. We would like to look at public for high school. Which moco high school is good to consider?