School Choices & Education Pathways in Anne Arundel County

Complete guide to Anne Arundel County Public Schools, school ratings, special programs, private school options, and homeschooling resources for parents

School Choices & Education Pathways in Anne Arundel County

Understanding Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS)

District Overview

Anne Arundel County Public Schools serves approximately 55,000+ students across 80+ schools. As one of Maryland’s largest and highest-performing districts, AACPS offers diverse educational options for students from kindergarten through 12th grade.

Key District Facts:

  • Superintendent: Dr. Mark T. Bedell (began term July 1, 2022)
  • Total Students: ~55,000+
  • Total Schools: 80+ (19 high schools, 13 middle schools, 40+ elementary schools, specialty schools)
  • Teacher-Student Ratio: Approximately 1:16
  • Website: www.aacps.org
  • Phone: 410-222-4500
  • Address: 1 County Grounds, Annapolis, MD 21401

District Performance

AACPS consistently ranks among Maryland’s top school districts:

Overall Strengths:

  • High graduation rate (~92%)
  • Strong college readiness programs
  • Extensive special education services
  • Diverse course offerings
  • Robust extracurricular activities

State Performance Metrics:

  • Maryland State Department of Education ratings available online
  • Multiple schools receiving state and national recognition
  • Strong STEM program development
  • Advanced placement and honors course availability

School Performance Metrics

Understanding School Ratings

When evaluating schools, consider these key metrics:

Test Scores & Academic Performance:

  • Maryland Comprehensive Assessment (MCA) scores
  • State standardized testing results
  • National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)
  • College readiness indicators

Graduation Rates:

  • AACPS average: ~92%
  • Individual school rates vary
  • 4-year vs. 5-6 year graduation rates
  • Cohort tracking available online

College Acceptance Rates:

  • College matriculation reports published annually
  • NCAA Division I, II, III institutions
  • State colleges and universities
  • Private and out-of-state options

Student-Teacher Ratios:

  • Varies by school and grade level
  • Elementary: Typically 1:14-1:16
  • Middle school: 1:15-1:17
  • High school: 1:16-1:18
  • AP/honors classes often smaller

Where to Find School Data

Official Sources:

  1. AACPS School Profiles: www.aacps.org/schools
  2. **Maryland State Department of Education:**marylandpublicschools.org
  3. GreatSchools.org: greatschools.org - School ratings and reviews
  4. Niche.com: niche.com - School rankings and parent reviews
  5. SchoolDigger.com: schooldigger.com - Comparative rankings

What to Look For:

  • 5-year performance trends
  • Subgroup performance (equity indicators)
  • College and career readiness metrics
  • Attendance rates
  • Suspension rates
  • Parent satisfaction surveys

Individual School Profiles

High Schools

Annapolis High School

  • Address: 100 School Lane, Annapolis, MD 21401
  • Grades: 9-12
  • Enrollment: ~850 students
  • Ratings: Strong academics, arts programs
  • Notable: Small school feel, strong college prep
  • Website: www.aacps.org/annapolishigh

Arnold High School

  • Address: 100 School Lane, Arnold, MD 21012
  • Grades: 9-12
  • Enrollment: ~1,200 students
  • Strengths: STEM programs, athletics
  • Magnet Programs: International Baccalaureate available

Crofton High School

  • Address: 1560 Defense Highway, Crofton, MD 21114
  • Grades: 9-12
  • Enrollment: ~1,500 students
  • Strengths: Excellent academics, extensive AP courses
  • Ratings: Consistently top-rated in county

Glen Burnie High School

  • Address: 800 Ritchie Highway, Glen Burnie, MD 21061
  • Grades: 9-12
  • Enrollment: ~1,600 students
  • Strengths: Diverse programs, strong athletics
  • Note: Largest high school in county

Owen Browne High School

  • Address: 10201 Ritchie Highway, Odenton, MD 21113
  • Grades: 9-12
  • Enrollment: ~1,300 students
  • Strengths: Modern facilities, STEM focus

Severn High School

  • Address: 5551 Defense Highway, Severn, MD 21144
  • Grades: 9-12
  • Enrollment: ~1,300 students
  • Strengths: Strong academics, community involvement

John Hanson High School

  • Address: 100 School Lane, Glen Burnie, MD 21061
  • Grades: 9-12
  • Enrollment: ~1,100 students
  • Focus: International Baccalaureate program

North County High School

  • Address: 4400 Northgate Drive, Glen Burnie, MD 21061
  • Grades: 9-12
  • Enrollment: ~1,400 students
  • Strengths: Comprehensive programs

Edgewater High School

  • Address: 4385 Quinby Road, Edgewater, MD 21037
  • Grades: 9-12
  • Enrollment: ~900 students
  • Strengths: Smaller school environment

Arnold Academy

  • Alternative education program
  • Address: Arnold, MD

Note: School attendance boundaries change - verify your zone based on specific address.

Middle Schools

AACPS operates 13 middle schools (grades 6-8):

Notable Middle Schools:

  • Chesapeake Middle (Annapolis): Strong arts program
  • Crofton Middle: Excellent academics
  • Severna Park Middle: Strong community involvement
  • Glen Burnie Middle: Comprehensive programs
  • Odenton Middle: Modern facilities

Elementary Schools

40+ elementary schools (K-5) throughout the county. Assignment based on specific address zone.

Research your zone: www.aacps.org/schools/findyourschool

Special Programs & Opportunities

Magnet Programs

AACPS offers several magnet programs for students with specific interests:

STEM Magnet Programs:

  • Crofton High School: STEM academy
  • Glen Burnie High School: Engineering focus
  • Multiple elementary/middle schools: STEM enrichment

International Baccalaureate (IB):

  • John Hanson High School: IB Diploma Programme
  • Several middle schools: IB Middle Years Programme
  • Rigorous college-preparatory curriculum
  • International recognition

Arts Programs:

  • Annapolis High: Strong theater and visual arts
  • Glen Burnie High: Performing arts focus
  • County-wide: Music, visual arts, dance programs
  • Anne Arundel County School of the Arts: Specialized training

Math & Science Academy:

  • Selective enrollment
  • Advanced coursework
  • College partnerships

Maritime Academies:

  • Partnership with maritime institutions
  • Nautical science focus
  • Leadership development

Gifted & Talented Programs

Identification:

  • IQ testing (when appropriate)
  • Achievement test scores
  • Teacher recommendations
  • Portfolio reviews

Services Include:

  • Cluster grouping in regular classes
  • Pull-out enrichment programs
  • Advanced coursework
  • Competitions and academic challenges

Contact: AACPS Gifted Education Coordinator at 410-222-4500

Special Education Services

AACPS provides comprehensive special education services:

Services Include:

  • Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
  • Special education classrooms
  • Resource room support
  • Related services (speech, occupational therapy)
  • Transition planning
  • Parent training and support

Key Resources:

  • Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC)
  • Parent Training and Information Center
  • Transition services for students 14+
  • Self-advocacy training

Getting Started:

  1. Request evaluation in writing
  2. Participate in IEP meetings
  3. Understand your child’s rights
  4. Build relationships with teachers

Contact: AACPS Special Education Division

Advanced Placement & Honors

AP Coursework:

  • 20+ AP courses offered at most high schools
  • College credit available for scores of 3+
  • Free/Reduced AP testing available

Honors Courses:

  • Available at middle and high school levels
  • Rigorous curriculum
  • Teacher recommendation often required

College Credit:

  • AP exams: Score of 3-5 earns credit at most colleges
  • Dual enrollment programs with local colleges

Private School Alternatives

Catholic Schools

DeMatha Catholic High School (Hyattsville, nearby)

  • Grades 9-12
  • All-boys Catholic high school
  • Strong academics, athletics
  • College prep focus
  • Website: www.dmatha.org

St. Mary’s Ryken High School (Leonardtown, nearby)

  • Grades 9-12
  • All-boys Catholic
  • Strong college preparation

Annapolis Area Catholic Schools (AAC):

  • Annapolis Junior High: Grades 6-8
  • St. Jude Elementary: Grades K-8
  • Strong faith-based education

Other Catholic Options:

  • Various parochial elementary schools
  • Parish-sponsored religious education

Independent/Private Schools

Anne Arundel County Private School Options:

Calvert School of Maryland (Baltimore, nearby)

  • K-12
  • Individualized instruction
  • Strong academics

Tolota Academy (Annapolis)

  • K-8
  • Small class sizes
  • Academic focus

Chesapeake Country Day School (nearby)

  • Preschool through 8th grade
  • College preparatory
  • Strong academics

Note: Private school tuition varies widely ($10,000-$35,000+ annually)

Homeschooling Resources

Maryland Homeschool Requirements:

Legal Requirements:

  1. File Notice of Intent to homeschool with county superintendent
  2. Provide letter of credentials (parent qualifications)
  3. Maintain attendance records
  4. File annual evaluation results

Homeschool Evaluation:

  • Standardized test scores
  • Portfolio review
  • Teacher evaluation
  • Psychoeducational evaluation

Resources for Anne Arundel Homeschoolers:

Anne Arundel County Public Schools - Homeschool Office:

Homeschool Organizations:

  • Maryland Homeschoolers Association
  • Local Facebook homeschool groups
  • Co-op opportunities

Homeschool Supplies:

  • Access to public school resources (sometimes)
  • Curriculum options
  • Field trips and extracurriculars
  • Homeschool groups for social activities

Advantages of Homeschooling:

  • Customized learning pace
  • Flexibility in scheduling
  • Individualized instruction
  • Family-centered approach

Challenges to Consider:

  • Time commitment for parents
  • Socialization planning
  • Resource limitations
  • Self-study requirements

School Selection Process

Step 1: Research Your Zone

Public School Assignment:

  • Elementary, middle, and high schools assigned by address
  • Use AACPS school finder tool
  • Verify boundaries before purchasing/renting

Resources:

Step 2: Evaluate School Performance

Research Metrics:

  • Test scores and trends
  • Graduation rates
  • College acceptance
  • Teacher qualifications
  • Class sizes
  • Extracurricular offerings

Visit Schools:

  • Attend open houses
  • Schedule tours
  • Meet with principals
  • Talk to current parents
  • Observe classes if possible

Step 3: Consider Your Child’s Needs

Questions to Ask:

  • Does the school match my child’s learning style?
  • Are there appropriate challenge/support levels?
  • How does the school handle behavioral issues?
  • What extracurricular options exist?
  • How does the school communicate with parents?
  • What support services are available?

Step 4: Visit and Compare

During School Visits:

  • Meet with teachers
  • Tour facilities
  • Review curriculum materials
  • Ask about parent involvement
  • Understand school culture
  • Check technology resources

Enrollment Process

Public School Enrollment

Required Documentation:

  1. Proof of Residency:

    • Lease agreement or deed
    • Utility bills (last 30 days)
    • Maryland driver’s license or ID

  2. Child Documentation:

    • Birth certificate
    • Social Security card
    • Immunization records
    • Previous school records
    • Report cards and transcripts
    • IEP or 504 plan (if applicable)

  3. Parent/Guardian:

    • Photo ID
    • Custody documents (if applicable)

Enrollment Steps:

  1. Contact assigned school or district office
  2. Complete enrollment forms
  3. Submit documentation
  4. Schedule health screening (if required)
  5. Attend orientation
  6. Purchase uniforms (if required)
  7. Obtain books/materials

Timeline:

  • Register before school starts if possible
  • Spring/Summer for fall enrollment
  • Rolling enrollment throughout year for transfers

Private School Enrollment

Varies by school, but typically:

  • Application form and fee
  • Entrance exam (some schools)
  • Interview with parent/student
  • Transcripts and records
  • Reference letters
  • Tuition agreement
  • Health records

Application Timelines:

  • Fall enrollment: Apply 6-12 months in advance
  • Rolling admissions (some schools)
  • Waiting lists common for popular schools

Homeschool Registration

Process:

  1. File Notice of Intent with county superintendent
  2. Submit letter of credentials
  3. Maintain required records
  4. Submit annual evaluation

Deadline: Must file before beginning homeschool instruction

Transportation & Busing

School Bus Service

Eligibility:

  • Available for students walking more than specified distance
  • Elementary students: Typically 1.5+ miles
  • Middle/High school: Typically 2+ miles
  • Special education students: As determined by IEP

Service Hours:

  • Morning: 6:30-7:30 AM pickup windows
  • Afternoon: 2:30-4:30 PM drop-off windows
  • Extended care available (some schools)

Contact: AACPS Transportation Division

Parent Carpooling

Organizing Carpool:

  • Use school parent directory (with privacy safeguards)
  • Create carpool groups by neighborhood
  • Establish schedules and responsibilities
  • Set up communication system (text group, app)

Safety:

  • Verify driver’s license and insurance
  • Establish rules and expectations
  • Ensure proper car seats/booster seats
  • Create emergency contact system

Extracurricular Activities

Athletics

Sports Offered:

  • Football, basketball, soccer, baseball, softball
  • Swimming, tennis, golf
  • Track and field
  • Volleyball
  • Lacrosse
  • Wrestling
  • Cross country

Registration:

  • Through school athletic department
  • Physical exam required
  • Insurance waiver forms
  • Seasonal registration

AAU vs. School Sports:

  • School sports: No cost, team building
  • AAU/Club: Additional cost, more competition

Clubs & Organizations

Common Clubs:

  • Student government
  • Drama/theater
  • Music ensembles
  • Academic clubs (Science Bowl, Math Team)
  • Language clubs
  • Robotics
  • National Honor Society
  • Club sports

Benefits:

  • Leadership development
  • College applications
  • Social connection
  • Skill building

Parent Resources & Involvement

Parent-Teacher Associations

PTA/PTO:

  • Most schools have active PTAs
  • Volunteer opportunities
  • Fundraising activities
  • Parent involvement platform
  • Meeting attendance provides school insights

How to Get Involved:

  • Attend first PTA meeting of school year
  • Fill out volunteer forms
  • Choose committees of interest
  • Attend parent workshops

Parent Communication

School Communication Channels:

  • Email newsletters
  • School websites
  • Parent portals (PowerSchool, etc.)
  • Mobile apps
  • Parent-teacher conferences (typically fall and spring)
  • Phone calls for issues

Best Practices:

  • Respond promptly to school communications
  • Attend parent-teacher conferences
  • Volunteer when possible
  • Build relationships with teachers
  • Stay informed about school policies

College & Career Preparation

College Counseling

High School Resources:

  • College counselors at each high school
  • College fairs and visitation days
  • Application assistance
  • Financial aid guidance
  • Scholarship information

Timeline:

  • 9th-10th grade: Explore colleges, maintain grades
  • 11th grade: Standardized tests (SAT/ACT), college visits
  • 12th grade: Applications, essays, decisions

Resources:

  • AACPS College Counseling Office
  • Common Application
  • Maryland State Higher Education Coordinating Board
  • College Board (SAT/AP)

Career Readiness

Career Technical Education (CTE):

  • Career-focused programs
  • Industry certifications
  • Work-based learning
  • Apprenticeship opportunities

Internship Programs:

  • School-sponsored internships
  • Summer employment programs
  • Job shadowing opportunities

Special Circumstances

Military Families

Naval Academy Area Schools:

  • Several schools near Annapolis
  • Strong understanding of military lifestyle
  • Resources for military children
  • Transition support

Fort Meade/Joint Base Andrews:

  • Schools serving military families
  • Understanding of deployment cycles
  • Military-specific support services

Transfers

Incoming to AACPS:

  • Provide all school records
  • Placement testing (may be required)
  • English language support (if applicable)
  • Credit transfer evaluation

Out of AACPS:

  • Provide transcripts
  • Transfer records to new district
  • Update immunization records

Useful Contacts & Resources

AACPS Main Contacts

  • District Office: 410-222-4500
  • Website: www.aacps.org
  • Enrollment Office: 410-222-4500
  • Special Education: 410-222-4500
  • Transportation: 410-222-4500

Maryland State Resources

  • Maryland State Department of Education: marylandpublicschools.org
  • Phone: 410-767-0100
  • School Report Cards: marylandpublicschools.org/schooldashboard

External Resources

  • GreatSchools: greatschools.org
  • Niche: niche.com
  • Parent Teacher Federation: ptfmd.org

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in Anne Arundel County. Take your time, research thoroughly, visit schools, and trust your instincts.

Remember:

  • There’s no “perfect” school - find the best fit for your child
  • Your involvement makes a huge difference in your child’s success
  • AACPS offers diverse options for different learning styles
  • School choice is an ongoing conversation as your child grows

Good luck with your school search!