[rdrkm]

Hi, we are looking to buy in Cheshire. We have 2 elementary-aged kids. Our motivation is the school system available.
Would you consider one elementary school to be better than another? My two kids are entirely different - one is very cerebral and bookish, the other athletic and inquisitive with a love of math. Different personalities, different abilities etc.
Can you tell me your experience with the schools? What impresses you? What depresses you
Is there a distinction between the areas of town or is it fairly similar throughout?
Thanks in advance

[Rich Lee]

I've lived in Cheshire since 11/1991. Unfortunately, I can't comment on the schools per state real estate licensing laws. But I can say the following: residents of some streets in Cheshire can choose between Chapman and Highland Elementary Schools. This sounds like it might be one viable option for you.

As for the layout of the town, many folks feel that the south end of town has a more residential feel with a tighter network of streets. Nob Hill is an older, distinguished part of town. There's also the Strathmore subdivision built in the '70s and newer subdivisions with the larger houses. The west part of town has older Capes, Splits, and Ranches on smaller lots.

Please keep in mind that this is a very simplified overview. There's a lot more that I didn't cover.

[JayCT]

Because the school systems in Connecticut are relatively small and usually very good, the school district a child is in is not really that important. Towns like Cheshire work very hard to assure all students get a good education. Their curriculum is fairly uniform. I would concentrate more on the neighborhood feel and house than worry about the schoolsdistrict. JMHO, Jay

[KH02]

They are both good schools, I wouldn't think it would matter which one you are zoned for like the PP said. All the kids eventually meld together into one school anyway.

IMHO the only downside to the Cheshire school system is once the kids get to high school and sometimes before that there tend to be alot of "spoiled" rich kids.
My DH grew up there and much preferred being with his friends from other towns who were more down to earth and "less showy" they didn't "brag as much"
Quotes from DH.

anyhow good luck with Cheshire...any elementary there should be good!!

[rdrkm]

thanks so much for all your replies and advice. So far my kids are oblivious to labels and possessions so hopefully that will hold up. I appreciate the info regarding the similarity of the schools. I didn't want to buy and then find out that I shoulda, coulda etc...
Any other hints for a family with children? We have been casing the area, been on the biking trail, the awesome playground near the pool etc. The kids are really getting to like the idea of a move.