As a parent of a neurodivergent kid, finding the ideal school can feel like seeking a needle in a haystack. Not only is it essential to find the right academic support, but a nurturing environment tailored to your child’s needs is equally critical. If you’re looking for special education schools in Maryland, you’ve come to the right place.
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In this blog post, we’ll discuss the different types of special education schools in Maryland and the factors you should consider when choosing a school for your child. We’ll also list some of the best special education schools in Maryland. So whether you’re just starting your search or narrowing down your options, read on for helpful information that will make the process easier.
Top 5 Special Education Schools in Maryland
Choosing the right school is paramount. Not to mention, living in Maryland, you’re in luck! Here, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 special education schools in Maryland. That is to say, these schools have been praised by parents and caregivers alike. Moreover, they offer a variety of programs catering to different needs and learning backgrounds.
| Name | Rating | Number of Reviews | Address | Hours of Operation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Harbour School | 3.7 | 18 | Annapolis, MD, United States | Open â‹… Closes 4 PM | The Harbour School is known for its vibrant arts program, enhancing creativity in special education. |
| Central Special School | 4.7 | 3 | Edgewater, MD, United States | N/A | With a high rating, Central Special School emphasizes personalized learning plans, catering to each student’s unique needs. |
| The Pathways School – Anne Arundel | 4.0 | 5 | Annapolis, MD, United States | Open â‹… Closes 3:30 PM | Specializing in therapeutic services, The Pathways School offers a unique blend of academics and mental health support. |
| Gateway School | 4.1 | 9 | Baltimore, MD, United States | Open â‹… Closes 4 PM | Gateway School focuses on vocational training, preparing students for real-world employment. |
| High Road School of Anne Arundel | 2.1 | 9 | Millersville, MD, United States | N/A | Despite its lower rating, High Road School offers intensive behavioral intervention programs tailored for students with severe challenges. |
What is Special Education in Maryland?
In Maryland, special education is more than just a tailored curriculum. It revitalizes the learning process for kids with thinking and learning differences. Each child is provided with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). However, it goes beyond academics. It’s also about psycho-social growth and life skills. In Maryland, special education is a holistic approach to fostering growth in neurodivergent kids.
Who is Eligible for Special Education in Maryland?
Maryland is proactive in recognizing and responding to various learning differences. Any kid struggling academically or socially might be eligible for special education services. This includes kids with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, cerebral palsy, and many other conditions. That is to say, eligibility isn’t limited to predefined boxes.
What is the Best County in Maryland for Autism?
Each county in Maryland has its strengths when it comes to autism support. However, Anne Arundel County often garners high praise. Above all, their broad range of services and inclusive practices make the county stand out. Their tailored strategies help kids with autism improve communication, social skills, and academic outcomes.
Read more: Autism Schools in Maryland | Parent Guide
How Do I Request an IEP Evaluation in Maryland?
Requesting an IEP evaluation in Maryland is a straightforward process. Firstly, you want to put your request in writing. Additionally, the letter should include the date, your child’s name, and the reasons for the request. Further, after submitting the request, the school has 90 days to complete the assessment.
Read more: Your Questions Answered About The IEP Process
How Goally Can Help
Goally can be used in a variety of ways in the classroom. Teachers can use it as a supplement to their regular curriculum, or they can use it as a standalone intervention for students who need extra support. Goally can also be used as a tool for assessment, as it tracks student progress and provides teachers with data on their learning.
Evidence shows that kids learn best when they’re having fun. Many teachers recommend using learning tech like Goally to engage with kids in a way they love.
In the classroom, Goally can help kids with:
- Following directions by providing visual supports to help them understand what they are supposed to do.
- Staying on task by providing timers and reminders to help them stay focused.
- Learning new concepts by playing games that make learning fun and engaging.
- Communicating with their teachers and peers by using the AAC Talker app to express themselves.
- Goally’s distraction-free kid’s tablet can be used as a therapy tool to help teach executive function, language, emotional regulation, finger dexterity skills, and more!
Choosing the right school for a neurodivergent kid can be a steep climb. But with the right guide, you’ll get to the top. And guess what? You’re no longer climbing by yourself. Maryland’s special education schools reveal a landscape with choice and opportunity for learning differences. And that’s where Goally pitches in. Our learning tablet for kids complements the rich educational landscape of special education schools in Maryland. It aids learning and makes daily routines exciting again, making it the perfect companion for your child’s educational journey. Above all, it’s empowering for both the parent and the child.
Hennah is an experienced writer and researcher, helping children with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions. As a blog contributor for Goally, she combines her deep understanding of neurodiversity with practical advice, offering valuable insights to parents and educators.
