Of course once you eliminate all of those schools Atholton and Mt Hebron are the only schools remaining with any minorities other than Asians. So, if the OP wants those groups then she will be limited after excluding most of the Columbia Schools.

If you are going to avoid those schools then I'm not sure how you could possibly recommend Hammond. Wilde Lake scores are better than Hammond and in general better than Reservoir. They are usually a step behind Howard on standardize test.

I would pick Atholton.

Both are diverse, but Atholton is better academically. It has higher SAT and state test scores. I think the percentage of FARM students brings down the state test scores and SAT scores at Hammond. However, they're both good schools. The only high schools that I will avoid in Howard County are Wilde Lake, Oakland Mills, and Long Reach. You could compare both schools on the Great School's website http://www.greatschools.com. Also, look at each individual school's website http://www.hcpss.org to obtain additonal information. Atholton provides more extra-curricular activities and clubs than Hammond. Also, there seems to be more parental involvement at Atholton.

Is there really that much if a difference. We want a good school with diversity near the FT Meade area. We will rent and it seems that Atholton rentals are rate and expensive. My twins are coming out of private schools.