When it comes to choosing the right college, parents are often overwhelmed by glossy brochures, school rankings, and admissions representatives. But if you’re raising a neurodivergent learner, you know the decision goes far deeper than test scores or acceptance rates. At MRM Education, we believe it’s not about the prestige of a school, it’s about how well a school supports your child’s unique learning needs, strengths, and future.
In this post, we’re diving into how to evaluate a college through a neuroinclusive lens. We’ll go beyond reputation and help you explore what really matters: the right fit, the right support, and the right mindset for your child.
1. Redefining What “Good School” Means
Before diving into your search, pause and ask yourself: What does a good school mean for my child?
Traditional school rankings can be tricky. They tend to prioritize traditional academic and cultural metrics. While these metrics have value, they don’t tell the whole story, especially if your child is autistic, has ADHD, struggles with executive functioning, or is navigating school as a culturally marginalized student. So what qualities does a ‘good school’ have?
A truly “good” school is one where your child is:
- Understood for who they are
- Supported in how they learn
- Encouraged to express themselves
- Not just included, but valued
Start by writing down what your child needs emotionally, socially, and academically. Now search for schools with this list in mind. It will be your compass and your north star as you decide which schools are best.
Pro Tip: Schools must pay to promote themselves via popular rankings lists. This means that many great options get overlooked.
2. Dig Into Their Support Services and Their Culture
Not all support programs are created equal. Two schools may have a “learning center,” but one might be a dynamic hub with tailored plans and one-on-one coaching, while the other just provides occasional test accommodations.
Every school will say they’re inclusive, but how can you really know? Inclusion isn’t just about having a special education department. True inclusion shows up in daily interactions, classroom setups, teaching styles, and leadership decisions.
When evaluating a school, ask:
- What academic accommodations are available—and how easy is it to access them?
- Ask to speak to the learning specialist or DSP counselor.
- Does the school offer executive functioning coaching, mental health counseling, or social-emotional learning?
- How does the school create or implement 504 Plans? Do families have a real seat at the table?
- Does the school use strength-based, people-first language?
- Do faculty and leadership reflect the diversity of the student body? Do students see themselves in the curriculum and classroom materials?
If possible, ask to sit in on a class or two. You can learn a lot by observing how students and faculty interact in real time.
Pro Tip: You want a school that sees inclusion as a value, not as a burden or check box. So seek out schools that practice active inclusion – these are the schools that are more likely to foster your child’s confidence and growth.
3. Talk to Other Families
One of the most powerful insights comes from families already walking the path. Reach out to parent groups, neurodivergent family networks, or multicultural community spaces to find families whose children attend the schools you’re considering.
Ask them:
- What has the real experience been like for your child?
- How responsive is the school when challenges arise?
- Would you choose the same school again?
Often, it’s these informal conversations that provide the clearest picture of a school’s true climate.
4. Trust Your Gut and Your Child’s
Never underestimate the power of intuition. The single most effective metric of success for a student choosing a school is “it just felt right.” If something feels off during a school visit, investigate. If your child lights up in one environment and shuts down in another, take note.
The right school doesn’t have to be perfect. No school will check every box. That’s okay. What matters most is finding a place where your child feels seen, safe, and supported. A school that’s willing to listen, learn, and grow with your family is worth far more than one with a high ranking but no real understanding of neurodiverse needs.
At MRM Education, our philosophy is that the best education is rooted in empathy and belonging. When you choose a school that honors who your child is, not who the system expects them to be, you’re setting them up for a future full of confidence and possibility.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a school is a big decision, especially when your child doesn’t fit into a traditional mold. But by asking the right questions, observing the school environment, and listening to your child’s needs and desires, you can find a space that nurtures both their potential and their humanity.
If you’re looking for more guidance or one-on-one support in navigating school choices for your neurodivergent or diverse learner, MRM Education is here to help. We offer personalized coaching, educational consulting, executive functioning coaching and advocacy to ensure your child has the tools and the team to thrive.
Visit MRM Education to learn more or schedule a consultation.
Because every child deserves a school that sees them clearly and supports them completely.
Meet the Authors:
Matt McGee is the founder of MRM Education and has worked as a college admissions specialist for the past 15 years, helping students gain entry into their “best-fit” college. He specializes in supporting neurodiverse students, student athletes and high achieving students.
Natasha M. Nurse, Esq. is the Managing Director, Partnerships & Business Operations at MRM Education. As a Neurodivergent parent, she leads efforts to build meaningful partnerships and foster strong community engagement.Through collaborative initiatives, innovative programming, and purposeful communication, Natasha helps strengthen connections between educators, families, and communities. Her passion for learning and authentic relationship-building fuels her mission to make education more equitable and impactful for all.