Opportunities for Teachers/Social Workers ABQ or Las Cruces (Albuquerque: neighborhood, movies)

[orchid77]

My husband and I are hoping to relocate out west later this year and are considering ABQ or Las Cruces (along with smaller cities outside of Portland and Seattle). I have a few questions for those of you familiar with the areas:

1. What are the school systems like? How are the public schools? Are there any good charter schools? Opportunities for teachers (high school SS)? Any you would specifically recommend looking in to?

2. I am a social worker and would be looking for a position in a nonprofit and/or social service agency. I figure there would be opportunities in ABQ; how about in Las Cruces?

3. Social Scene: Again, I would presume there would be more to do in ABQ, but could someone give us an idea of what there is to do (or refer us somewhere to read more) in either city? We are no so much into night clubs or opera, but like friendly neighborhood pubs with local beers and pool tables; movies, local arts scene, etc.

4. We are moving from Atlanta, Georgia and are looking for more outdoor hiking/camping/biking opportunities. This may be a silly question, but are we correct in assuming we'll find lots of things to do?

5. Biking/Public Transportation - Is it possible to do with one (or 0) cars in either city?

Thank you!!

[abqsunport]

1. Unfortunately, Albuquerque Public Schools is a largely underfunded school system. However, something that is nice is that in the State of New Mexico, students can get a lottery scholarship if they simply get a 3.0. This gives any student free tuition to any state school;obviously, this is a fantastic opportunity to kids.

2. I believe there are more opportunities in Albuquerque, but I am pretty sure you could find what you are looking for in Las Cruces as well.

3. Albuquerque is definitely better of the two, but both have local pubs, bars, etc.

4/5. Albuquerque wasn't rated the Fittest city in America in 2007 for nothing. There is tons of hiking, biking, and everything else. Public Transportation here sucks, but streets are bike friendly. You will absolutely need at least one vehicle. Don't worry though, streets are easy to navigate.

Hope this helped!

[kensgirl]

One other teaching option for ABQ area is the Rio Rancho schools. They are currently building a second high school. You may want to check out their website for info.