Living, schools, close to Athens or maybe Madison.... (Atlanta, Social Circle: private schools, universities)

[homer]

Does anyone have any info./help on schools or quality of life around the Athens, Watkinsville, Madison areas, especially the people and thoughts about living close to a college town. Can you escape the college atmosphere in Athens and still enjoy the benefits?? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.

[aztec31]

You have identified one of the best areas in the country to live. Just retired from the University and elected to stay in the area. Be advised the area is much more than the University. Any of the counties in the north east reagon is perfect for your objectives.

Schools in Oconee County have good reputation. Also excellent private schools available. You may not be aware that children of State residents can attend colleges, universities or tech schools free. Only need to maintain B average.

[homer]

Thanks for the info. Also, if you are in the area you might know if the area outside of Athens and toward Madison, is all rural, even close-minded...or, possibly, progressive in thinking at all. We can enjoy most places, but would be making a life-changing move and would like some input. We are in creative fields and like diversity and cultural events also, which I've read is in Athens. This time we really don't want to live in another "suburb", though we have 3 children ranging from 15 to 5....all of this said, if anyone has input, it's greatly appreciated!

[brandiwine]

I live in Rutledge and grew up in Mansfield. My husband and I have been in Rutlege for 8 years now and have two boys ages 5 and 1. We love it here! My oldest son attends a Christian school in Social Circle currently but we will probably move him to a nearby private school within the next couple of years. I have no major concerns with the public schools in Morgan county. My husband and I both attended private schools and frankly the size of public schools just scare me! I feel more comfortable with the type of school where everybody knows everbody.

The property prices here are high but they are only getting higher! If I were you, I would try to make a decision pretty quickly.

[larryb]

Madison is one of the most beautiful cities in Ga. Still somewhat conservative which is what I like. Welcoming to outsiders as long as they aren't troublemakers. Usually the more liberal and "openminded" a place is the more it becomes like Atlanta. Madison is not like that. Good place to bring up a family.