Private schools and Public Schools in Winston Salem Area (Clemmons: elementary school, move to)

[sarahHelena]

We are considering a move to the W-S area. We have elementary school-aged children who are currently in a private (independent, i.e., not religious) school where they are receiving a great education. Does anyone have recommendations on great private schools in the general area. I've looked at data on the public schools, but my experience in our current city is that the data don't tell enough of the story. They look great on paper, but the atmosphere in the school just wasn't nearly as great as we had hoped. So, if anyone has personal experience with public schools that they think are truly fabulous, I'd love to know the districts and schools to look for.

Thanks.

[arbyunc]

Hi Sarah, I'll try to help if I can. First, there are some very good public schools in this area. I think most would say that the Clemmons and Lewisville districts are best all-around (considering the high schools as well), along with the Mt. Tabor district. Clemmons Elem., Lewisville Elem., and Southwest Elem. are in this area, and all get rave reviews from parents I know. But that's not to suggest the other districts are bad, it's just that overall these areas seem to get the best feedback.

I'm aware of two private, non-religious schools--Forsyth Country Day and the Summit School. Both are very expen$ive, with tuition ranging from $15-20,000 per year depending on grade level. I would say there's no compelling reason to pay for a private school unless you have money to burn. I know a number of very wealthy families who send their kids to public schools, because the quality is very good and they don't feel a need to look elsewhere. While I'm sure the private schools offer a great education, you can get as good or better for free IMO.

Hope this helps.