stafford schools (Falmouth: home, private school, bus)

[jkvande]

Can anyone tell me how the schools are in stafford county?We are looking to build a home there.I was interested in finding out if falmouth ele.,edward drew middle, and stafford high were atleast average,and safe schools.I have 3 kids and dont want them going to some place where there is a lot of fighting or close mindedness.I was a little leary when i checked out the schools ratings but i dont think you can always rely on just numbers.
Thank you so much!

[texas_bound]

Hi, and welcome to Stafford!

Stafford is a great place to raise a family; and overall,the schools are great. There are a handful of schools to avoid; check out greatschools dot net for specific demographs such as school test scores, teacher creds, and student info.

I agree that numbers aren't everything (such as SOL scores) but don't ignore the numbers that point to problems. There are several schools here I would NEVER EVER allow my kids to attend (I'd go into debt with private school first) and it's a personal decision based on various standards.

If you're in the area already; go to the schools you've mentioned and ask for a tour/look around while school is in session (1 week until summer break now). Also ask moms at the bus stops in the area you're building for their experiences. The locals are friendly here; and love to help newcomers to the area.

I've had kids in 3 elem schools in Stafford; none in the schools you've mentioned; I've been REALLY REALLY happy with our experiences and highly recommend these schools: Garrisonville ES, Hartwood ES, Brent ES. I have 2 friends with kids previously in Falmouth. Unfortunately, they pulled their kids and now drive them to another elem within the county; to each his own.

Hope this helps, and welcome to the area!