[travelbug99]

We have 2 young children and are looking to move to Monroe or Trumbull. The school district is a top priority for us. Are these districts comparable?

[kidyankee764]

Yes, they are pretty comparable. Monroe is a smaller town and a bit more rural, but overall they are both great school districts.

Where will you be working and what are your requirements in a community?

[JayCT]

Both school systems are very good. I doubt you would notice much difference. That said, I would give Trumbull a slight edge over Monroe but not by that much. Connecticut Mastery and Connecticut Academic Performance Tests results are generally better in Trumbull. It seems that every year Monroe struggles to get their budget approved (of which Educaiton is the largest compnent) while Trumbull is more open to spending on schools. Again though this so far has not been an issue. Review the link below for more information on schools in Connecticut. Jay

State Department of Education - CEDaR

[kidyankee764]

The one issue with Trumbull that I am always hesitant to mention is the Bridgeport influence in the schools. I know that there have been issues in the past with students using Trumbull addresses to enroll in their schools.

[travelbug99]

Thanks for your responses. I'm a stay at home mom and my husband works in Stamford. He currently drives to Bridgeport and takes the train from there. I tend to lean toward Trumbull because of the schools, but like Monroe because of the smaller size of the town. We are looking for a family friendly town with good schools and recreational activities. Lot sizes, taxes, and the commute to Stamford are also factors. We may also consider the southern part of Newtown.

[Stratford, Ct. Resident]

Originally Posted by kidyankee764

The one issue with Trumbull that I am always hesitant to mention is the Bridgeport influence in the schools. I know that there have been issues in the past with students using Trumbull addresses to enroll in their schools.

Yes. And, while Trumbull's "mill rate" may appear to be decent, your actual real estate tax bill will usually be greater than what you would pay in a neighboring town. Check those property taxes before you buy in Trumbull!

[Stratford, Ct. Resident]

Originally Posted by JayCT

Both school systems are very good. I doubt you would notice much difference. That said, I would give Trumbull a slight edge over Monroe but not by that much. Connecticut Mastery and Connecticut Academic Performance Tests results are generally better in Trumbull. It seems that every year Monroe struggles to get their budget approved (of which Educaiton is the largest compnent) while Trumbull is more open to spending on schools. Again though this so far has not been an issue. Review the link below for more information on schools in Connecticut. Jay

State Department of Education - CEDaR

Monroe allocates significantly......SIGNIFICANTLY less than Trumbull to their BOE. And the results for both towns are essentially the same. Monroe wins.

[kidyankee764]

Originally Posted by travelbug99

Thanks for your responses. I'm a stay at home mom and my husband works in Stamford. He currently drives to Bridgeport and takes the train from there. I tend to lean toward Trumbull because of the schools, but like Monroe because of the smaller size of the town. We are looking for a family friendly town with good schools and recreational activities. Lot sizes, taxes, and the commute to Stamford are also factors. We may also consider the southern part of Newtown.

I would pick Newtown, but parts can be a bit remote and far from trains, etc. For commuting purposes, can you afford Fairfield? The schools are fantastic and the commute would be about 15-20 minutes less each way.

[mlassoff]

I think you'll find the schools about even. There is lot of positive for both towns. Good luck with your decision.

[andthentherewere3]

Monroe and Trumbull schools are comparable, both very good school districts, with numerous family activities. Trumbull has more of a dense feel in many areas, with lot sizes of 1/4-1/2 acre. Monroe has 1 acre zoning throughout the town. Using test scores/class size etc. to compare, Monroe rated 22nd the past year, Trumbull 30th. One of Monroe's elementary schools recently earned the status of a "School of distinction", one of only 46 schools in the state. You really can't go wrong with either town, though. Although I must say, some residents of Trumbull can be a bit snooty for whatever reason. And there is a spillover of Bridgeport students in Trumbull.

Connecticut State Cities - CT City School Rankings / Monroe Rank