We are in the process of relocating to Chicago this summer, my husband is already working there (at O’Hare) and staying in a hotel while he looks for places to live. The kids and I will join him after the school year ends and our current house sells.
My concern is schools, and finding a place to live/buy that will give them the opportunity to go to a good school for their needs.
I have a son and daughter, both Autistic with IEPs that will be a Sophomore and Freshman in High School this fall when the new school year starts. They will both be coming from public schools in our current district, but both of their schools were smaller, specialized schools that had high neurodiverse populations.
Other important note- I will need to be able to get them to/from school via district transportation or public transportation, because I am disabled and cannot drive.
Both kids are in mainstream classes and are using district wide curriculum, but receive supports/interventions like extra time, resource co-teachers, access to quiet spaces, access to music/headphones, preferred seating, movement breaks, mental health services, scribes, etc.
Any advice on schools/what neighborhoods to be looking at?
A lot of people suggested Naperville/Aurora areas, but I’m not sure we can afford that (450k House Budget) and I worry about getting around/transportation.
Several people have told my spouse that BECAUSE our kids have IEPs, we should stay within the areas serviced by Chicago Public Schools.
I’m so confused! Help? TIA!