We’re building the rocket while flying it.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No. We are an informal group right now.

    While we aren't formal, we abide by the homeschooling co-op rules in Maryland which outlines what a co-op can do, how often, and whom can participate.

  • Our profile for start up are at or above grade level students that identify as neurodiverse, twice-exceptional, gifted, ADHD, autistic, adhd, anxious, or struggle with learning disabilities that are not in a traditional school setting.

    We're happy to take high schoolers if they are 'on board' mentoring our younger members.

    Some of our kids are homeschooled, unschooled, enrolled in virtual or hybrid programs.

    Because of the fragile nature of many of our kids, we need to be selective in the types of behaviors and profiles we can manage.

  • Secular and inclusive. Non-partisan, no religious affiliation, and lean towards acceptance of our kids unique profiles.

  • Not yet, but we are getting close.

    We are working on a partnership with an educational company that aligns with our value of creating a neuro-affirming learning environment.

  • A clowder is a group of cats. Cats like to do their own thing. They don't fall in line like dogs or sheep. Hence, 'herding cats' is probably the closest we will get to getting all our independent spirits in the same place at the same time.

  • Right now, we are just figuring it out.

    The goal is to create a local network of participants that can collaborate on creating a structure, events, and sharing cost.

    Based on the outcome of our planning, we may seek 501C3 status.

  • We will meet all over the county and likely a bit in DC.

    If we can get a core group, we will rent space for in-person meet ups.

    But, our rule is "no traditional classrooms." Instead, we'll look for creative and comfortable 'third-spaces' to meet and greet.

  • We're all over the county, but quite a few of us are in 'upper' MoCo -- Rockville, Gaithersburg, Germantown.

    We also welcome families from right over the 'border' in Frederick, Co.

    If this works out, we are happy to expand into DC and VA.

  • Ours too.

    We aim for small groups -- no more than 8 children at a time. This will help to keep it manageable for those with sensory issues or anxiety.

    We will also add some structure to interactions as social-communication isn't always a strong suit for our 2E NDs. There is nothing worse than having ASD and standing in a room filled with people not knowing what to do!

    We will also aim for 'low sensory' activities and places. And/or we will try to list possible sensory triggers for an activity. For example, if we are going to the Planetarium then sensory issues may include flashing lights and loud noises.

  • Sorry, but no.

    We're parent involved right now. So, come with your kids.

    Feel free to bring your work laptop and coffee -- we're all multitasking.

  • Right now, it is parent directed. Because each member has their own unique needs, we'll require some form of parent interaction until relationships are established.

    One day we hope to create a drop-off situation or a co-working space.

  • Join the club.

    Most participants have or are eligible for an IEP or 504 Plan in public school.

    Because we aren't a school, we don't work through the IEP framework.

    BUT, since we have a 'clowder' of learners with sensory sensitivities, varying attention issues, social emotional challenges, and anxiety -- we are pretty accommodating and accepting.

  • We hate to say no, but we aren't ready for that yet.

    While all of our learners have their moments, we need to be cautious about taking on higher needs individuals right now. Many of our participants are recovering from trauma, burnout, or have anxiety so we need to keep it calm for them.

  • Our goal is to provide a safe, neutral space for our curious renegades to get together in a structured(ish) way.

    Activities may include:

    • Hands on science experiments

    • Field Trips to local sights

    • Board Game Meet Up

    • Arts or other Hands-on Activities

    • Special Interest sharing

    • Group 'PE' activity

    • Tutorial Instruction on a special topic

  • We're just starting up, so send in an inquiry form in the 'contact' section.

  • We need to team with other parents who can coordinate activities. Having a variety of families will support the broad range of interests and abilities.

    If you have a talent or an interest or just willing to give a few hours, please let us know.

It is likely the same story that brought you here.

There aren’t choices for twice-exceptional learners in the area. Budget cuts, programs restructured, large class sizes, and limited special education support have left many without an appropriate placement.

Hence, we are banding together to create something that works for our double-awesome, 2E, ND students.

What’s the real story behind Curious Renegades?

Get Involved

Interested in being part of our launch?

Send in an interest form.