Northampton public schools vs. Amherst public schools (Belmont, Longmeadow: top schools, taxes)

[vogue1]

I am confused. Some say Northampton has great schools, others that only good schools can be found in Amherst--hence higher taxes, I guess.
Is there anybody who know firsthand about it?
I am looking for good elementary schools with strong programs and parental involment. Diversity would be welcomed, but that is secondary to excellent teachers and motivated kids. Thanks in advance!

[wmass]

I guess the only people who could answer would be someone who has/had a kid in both schools. However, I think both school systems are good.

I'd suggest you call a few area realtors and ask their perceptions/opinions.

[Carefully]

Both places are expensive to live, so likely have good schools.

[JuJu83]

Both Amherst and Northampton have excellent public school systems -- two of the best in Western Massachusetts.

One of the other public school systems that continually receives praise is Longmeadow's.

[Justin Sparks]

Originally Posted by vogue1

I am confused.

excellent teachers and motivated kids.

Perhaps I'm jaded but IMO one needs to think private schools to find the requisites mentioned.

[in_newengland]

I always heard that Amherst had really good schools. They have UMass that has a big education department and gets involved in the schools. I've heard bad things about Northampton schools but that could have changed for the better.

Of course Longmeadow has the best (according to test scores) but it sounds like the OP isn't living around Longmeadow. Longmeadow is very competitive and high pressure anyway, which is not always that good for kids.

[wmass]

[quote=in_newengland;17980604]I always heard that Amherst had really good schools. They have UMass that has a big education department and gets involved in the schools.

Marks Meadow Elementary School, which was associated with UMass School of Education has been closed
http://www.masslive.com/news/index.s...n_amherst.html

[wmass]

Not that I put a lot of stock in rating systesms, but Northampton High School was ranked one of the top schools in the U.S. by Newsweek. (#14 in MA, Amherst doesn't make their cut)

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[nei]

Yea, I've heard more good things about Northampton public schools than Amherst's. I'm sure both are good, though.

[vogue1]

Thanks so much, I appreciate all the info. We are in Belmont and have no clue, so I am trying to sort out different opinions, and do my best and get some insider scoop before visiting both.