Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:Assuming that this is a good-faith post (and you aren't trolling), the difference can be explained through socio-economic status.
I'm not saying that AACPS are worse than Howard, just that you have to look at SES to understand what goes into the rankings and performance of the schools. Also, when it comes to high school performance, AACPS high schools have programs like IB that accept students from non-feeder schools, which tends to improve the performance of schools with higher concentrations of poverty. Other than ROTC, which isn't based on academics, HCPSS has no special programs - you go to the high school for which you are zoned.
This is not true. Howard has many academic, performing arts, and extensive college level research programs in their schools.
My own child is in the following programs: Project Lead The Way Engineering Program which is a four-year program, accelerated GT Math Program, in addition to those two programs, she is also a part of the GT Music program. Since this is her last year in PTLW she has to research and design a senior engineering project.
Here is information about my child's PTLW Engineering Program
https://www.pltw.org/our-programs/pltw-engineering
HCPSS offers research opportunities, internships, and apprenticeships for students going into certain fields due to their connections with various organizations and businesses. HCPSS has its own Applied Research Lab, Jump Start Program which is partnered with Howard Community College, and offers Career Academies. Students have the choice to join an academy or not.
Here is a link to the course catalog which explains the various programs, academies, and high school course offerings.
https://www.hcpss.org/f/academics/hs-catalog-2023-24.pdf
Yes, in HCPSS students attend the schools that they are zoned to because most programs, AP courses, and GT courses, are offered at a student's home school. There are GT resource teachers and Career Academy teachers at every high school, however students in certain academies like computer, science, aerospace engineering, biotechnology, etc. have to take courses at the HCPSS Applied Research Lab.
Also, HCPSS has a great performing arts and Humanities program for students who are not interested in STEM. There is something for everyone here in HCPSS no matter your child's interests.