I don't get it...Traditional, Charter, Regular, Academy Schools??? (Phoenix: real estate, homes)

[tiredofrain]

Hi all...we are seriously considering re-locating to the Phoenix area. One of my main concerns when choosing a house/area is schools, price (under 130,000), and jobs. In looking at schools, I'm totally confused. What is the difference in all of these different types--regular, traditional, charter, academy. Here in Puyallup, WA there is public or private--that's it. Private is mucho expensive. What are your opinions and what I should consider for my academically excelling child (meaning he's considered "gifted" in this district). He's also Chinese, so I'd like a school with some diversity. Any other hints you can give would be great--I'm considering Surprise, Chandler, Gilbert, Avondale....We'll be there in April to check out the areas (I want to live and work within a 30 minute commute--no job yet).

Thanks!!!!!

[homesweetazhome]

Regular schools - Public school districts = no tuition
Charter schools - Funded like public schools through the state = no tuition
Traditional schools - can be public or charter, the traditional term refers to the curriculum emphasis, which is back to basics, the 3 R's no frills.
Academy's - are most often Private schools that require a tuition.

In Chandler & Gilbert, there are several outstanding Charter Schools AND the public schools are award winning.

Hope this helps clear some of your confusion.

[Ponderosa]

Originally Posted by homesweetazhome

In Chandler & Gilbert, there are several outstanding Charter Schools AND the public schools are award winning.

And precious few homes priced near 130K in those nice schools attendance boundaries.

[tiredofrain]

Can you give me an idea of what areas in Gilbert, Chandler have the best schools? Is there a certain zip code?

thanks

[aztoga]

I can't speak to the real estate costs, but as an educator I would advise doing your homework on those charter schools. Some are EXCELLENT and others... uh... not so much. For example, find out how long they have had their charter, who runs the school (Is it a board? A husband and wife team?) I know these seem silly but there really are schools out there that are family run. Finally, when you contact them, what kind of reply do you get? Are they welcoming and willing to give you a tour or do they seem put out? Best of luck.

[pbenjamin]

You can also see test scores online for charter schools, and you will find a wild disparity. Some are astonishingly good, others make you wonder why the state lets them exist.