Looking for best family neighborhoods in Valpo (Gary, Valparaiso: homes, YMCA)

[tayshat]

We're moving to Valparaiso this summer and are looking for a family friendly area. We like to play outside with the neighborhood kids, ride our bikes, etc. Which are the best elementary and middle schools (kids will be in 4th and 2nd and have a 2.5yr old)? We would like to be close to schools, library, parks and the YMCA. My husband will be working in Gary and our families are in Ohio. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

[domergurl]

Valpo is very family friendly overall (we lived in a neighborhood called Aberdeen for 2 years). All the schools are great ... sorry to be so milquetoast, but as long as you are in the Valpo school boundary district, you'll be fine.

[Chuckity]

You can check greatschools.net (I think that's the site) which will give you a school by school break down.

But domergirl is right - if you're in Valpo school district (and a word of warning - a Valpo address doesn't necessarily equal Valpo schools) you're good. All the elementary schools in particular have HUGE parental involvement.

There are two middle schools in town - Thomas Jefferson & Benjamin Franklin. Huge (good natured) rivalry ... I do believe though that BF edges out TJ academically - but they are pretty similar.

Unless you're in town in Valpo, you're not really going to be able to walk to parks & the library ... but if you like big beautiful old homes, you're sure to find something that suits you in that area.