Moving to Wichita area need info

[mity_spader]

Originally Posted by ordinaryaveragegirl

The better school districts in the area tend to be Maize, Andover, Goddard, and Derby, and we did a ton of research before we moved here. I personally know people who live in all four areas, and are very happy. We happen to live on the west side (Reflection Ridge area), and love where we are. There's a lot here, but still plenty of room for growth. But you also have very easy access to almost anywhere in town via 96, 235, or Kellogg. As for school districts, I can't say enough about Maize schools; the support from the staff and parents is incredible. My oldest son has continually done well, and my second oldest son, who is autistic, is thriving, thanks to a very innovative structured program. I look very forward to my daughter starting school, and I'm sure she will also have success. There's a lot of opportunity here in Wichita. It's growing steadily without the nasty problems like pollution and sprawl.

We just moved here & buying a home in Derby. My only child just turned 4. I'd like to start him in preschool . Do preschools operate year round.?

[Paul_Bettes]

Derby is a good choice. It's far enough from Wichita to avoid the worst of the gang problems, but close enough for shopping. As far as preschools, I don't really know yet, my daughter is a bit too young for that yet (next year though...) I'm poor, so I live in Oaklawn. It's not quite as bad as you've probably heard, but has LOTS of room for improvement. I tend to shop in Derby more than Wichita because it's nice to not have to deal with the traffic. The B1Bs' are gone from the base, now just kc-135s', but they're not as loud thankfully.

[sanfranmike]

Wichita does have a somewhat high crime rate, however most violent crime is limited to "ghetto" areas. I have worked within the school district for 10 years, and at schools in all locations.In my opinion if your husband doesnt mind a 20 minute commute, I would suggest NW wichita, Northwest high is definately ahead of the other high schools in the metro area as are the elementary and middle schools in that area.I work as a counselor for the state so Im not biased as if I worked for a specific school.Another area to consider is Derby, its close to Mconnell and also has great schools. The high schools have great caring staff and great programs.As for elementary I would suggest Park Hill in Derby. Housing can be found in NW wichita or Derby for between $90,000-150,000 for something decent with a finished basement and garage.Both are convenient to the city as well.

[Grgranny]

We moved to Mulvane in 1953. We think it is probably the best place. The schools here a very good. The only problem I see is the casino which I am against. It doesn't take long to get to the base and you hardly ever hear any planes. Just look at a map to see where the rr tracks are as they surround the town pretty much. There are quite a few houses for sale in Countrywalk.

[4myfam]

We just moved to Augusta from Wichita. I grew up in Derby 20 years ago and my wife grew up in Mulvane. Derby is a great town. If you got the bid on the house, congrats! Enjoy. If not, look into Augusta or Andover. We have 4 kids ranging from 11 to 3 and they can walk anywhere they want without fear of major roads to cross. Derby and Mulvane have their high schools and waterparks on the other side of major roads that we didn't want our kids crossing.

Augusta is very historical. My wife loves the brick streets and the historical downtown. There is a city lake with parks around it and though there is a highway going through the south part of town, the speed limit is 30 for that mile with 3 stoplights, so it is easy to cross.


The schools are awesome!! We just found out our 11 yr old has dyslexia and the teachers are giving him absolutely everything needed to succeed. They also keep in constant contact through phone calls and email.

Everyone here has been wonderful to meet, treating us as their own.

It's not as hicki-sh as some would think; just a great small town atmosphere! I haven't seen too many cowboy boots.

http://www.chamberofaugusta.org/
Good luck with your adventure.