Family in the City (Baltimore, Riverside: how much, neighborhoods, elementary school)

[Buddy123]

My family is looking to move into Baltimore City. We understand that there are some better options in the suberbs... but we want to be in the city and are wondering if any of the neighborhoods have a concentration of young families? Mt. Vernon, Boltin Hill, Canton, Federal Hill, Locust Point? Please don't just tell they are all terrible, where is the BEST place to raise a family in the city?

[carolott]

I live in Barre Circle in Pigtown and we seem to have quite a few ladies expecting...and we have a few young children, too. My son is 7 and one of my neighbors down the street has twin boys -- they're...maybe a year or so old. I think in a couple of years our neighborhood will have lots of kids.

Federal Hill is a great neighborhood for young families and the elementary school is excellent -- my son goes there and we're really happy with the education he's getting. There's a members-only swim club within walking distance (Otterbein) and two beautiful parks with play areas (Riverside Park and Federal Hill). Lots of things for kids to do, and it's pretty easy to meet people and get plugged into neighborhood events.

Good luck!

[Buddy123]

Good insights Carolott- I haven't heard much about the neighborhood you live in- it's good to consider- Also, I have been interested in Federal Hill/Riverside but have been told everyone moves when their kids turn 5-6 for school.

Anyone else know much about family life in Fells Point/Canton- I've heard there are some decent charter schools there?

Also, I have heard similar reports about midtown...Mt Vernon/Boltin Hill but have yet to have them confirmed?

[carolott]

Originally Posted by Buddy123

Good insights Carolott- I haven't heard much about the neighborhood you live in- it's good to consider- Also, I have been interested in Federal Hill/Riverside but have been told everyone moves when their kids turn 5-6 for school.

Anyone else know much about family life in Fells Point/Canton- I've heard there are some decent charter schools there?

Also, I have heard similar reports about midtown...Mt Vernon/Boltin Hill but have yet to have them confirmed?

There are a few good schools in Federal Hill, including the local elementary school that my son attends. If you're interested in a Catholic school, Catholic Community is well-regarded and has a lot of parent participation. With regard to charter schools...I found that the numbers weren't as impressive as what I would be getting from the local schools, but that's where my experience ended -- so maybe there's someone here who can offer more insight into the charter schools.

[barante]

My walking group did Federal Hill this week and we parachuted on a former colleague, who has been very active in the community association. He told us something very interesting -- that increasing numbers of Federal Hill yuppies now send their children to the local public school, called Federal Hill Preparatory School.
I don't have kids so I don't have any real first-hand information on any of this. But this seems to be a trend in many of the wealthier in-town neighborhoods. It goes in tandem with charter schools.
So while there is still lots of handwringing about schools, it seems that something good is happening. Certainly this is worth investigating.

[carolott]

Originally Posted by barante

My walking group did Federal Hill this week and we parachuted on a former colleague, who has been very active in the community association. He told us something very interesting -- that increasing numbers of Federal Hill yuppies now send their children to the local public school, called Federal Hill Preparatory School.
I don't have kids so I don't have any real first-hand information on any of this. But this seems to be a trend in many of the wealthier in-town neighborhoods. It goes in tandem with charter schools.
So while there is still lots of handwringing about schools, it seems that something good is happening. Certainly this is worth investigating.

That's the school my son attends. He's been there since he was in Pre-K, and he's in the first grade now. They were the original site for the Ingenuity Project (for elementary grades) and now it's called...the advanced math and science program...I think. I can't believe the things my son is studying -- things I didn't learn about until I was in high school...

[Be More]

Buddy.....

I live in the same area as Carol. There are a lot of people expecting in the area. Fed Hill is also a great place to have a family. Barante is correct, a lot of people are sending their kids to public schools.

I teach at a charter school in the Fells Point area. I can't tell you how much fun it is. If you would like more information on the school please pm me. How old are your children?

[Scudder]

It seems like young families are starting to pop up all over. Mt. Vernon finished their children's park and most send their kids to Grace & St. Peter's or the Bolton school.

[Be More]

Yes, Mt. Vernon is another area. I believe more than a few send their kids to Midtown Academy...another charter school. Its nice that there are a variety of neighborhoods to choose from to raise a family.