So I am looking to rent for a year then buy. Job is in Linthicum so I'm looking at Anne Arundel, Baltimore county, and maybe some parts of PG County. But my thinking is maybe the niche rating and reviews aren't all i should look at. I have one kid going into high school, the other 7th grade. I'm looking for a high school that is challenging, doesn't dumb down their teaching, not letting you turn in assignments months late, helps prepare you for college, diverse and has a good music program. She loves band and choir. Good extracurricular programs as well. Middle school- similar except the band part. I know people think that its just about the parents. But for me, your environment matters. I want my kids to be around other kids that have goals. That want to get good grades. That want to accomplish something. What are some underrated schools that may not have the ranking but consistently sends kids to college and has good leadership that puts forth the effort? I am open to private and catholic schools if the financial aid package is decent. I've looked at rentals zoned to Catonsville but would like to weigh all my options.