Roosevelt High School District (Seattle: renting, crime, homes)

[kmanz]

It looks very good (trying not to jinx it) we're moving to Seattle. My daughter is a sophomore in high school and is involved in marching band here here. I did some research and found Roosevelt HS to be great academically and they have an excellent marching band. Of course, choosing schools (I also have 2 in elementary) isn't based on the marching band. lol. It was just a pleasant surprise since we want to live in that area anyway.

We plan on renting a 4 bedroom (2,000-3,000/month) and I've come across a few nice homes via online ads. How close is the commute to the city? Is there reliable public transport? Where are the "pockets" in this area you feel a family with 2 small children should avoid, if any? Any information is welcome!

Thoughts on Roosevelt High School as well as the elementary schools in the area would be helpful. Goodschools.org can only provide so much information.

[Ira500]

Most of the elementary schools that feed into Roosevelt High are very good. Bryant, Wedgwood, and Laurelhurst are all considered top notch. There are lots of buses that run into downtown, and the light rail being built will serve the area too( and have a stop right near Roosevelt HS)

[suziq999]

It gets a 7 on the greatschool ranking, as does Ballard High. So I think it's OK. That's the school district we are in (although my child isn't school age yet) and we are not terrified of the prospect.

[kmanz]

Thank you Suzi and Ira. We are flying out there in about 2 weeks and I hope to take a drive through this area in order to confirm my research. Your input helps to solidify our decision as well!

How wonderful about the easy bus access! And, I love that the light rail will be extended out that way - more good news )

[Ira500]

The area that is assigned as Roosevelt High school's is quite large. Goes as far north as 85th, and extends west as far as just beyond Aurora. So there are a lot of elementary schools that are hooked up with Roosevelt. And there are places to avoid living in. If I had young kids I'd probably avoid living right in the University District. Nearby Ravenna and Wallingford are fine. I'd avoid living within a block or two of I-5. It's noisy. Stay at least a block or two away from Aurora Avenue. It's perceived as crime ridden, a perception that's not so accurate anymore. Aurora is not bad at all right around Greenlake.
But the neighborhoods that send their kids to Roosevelt are mostly just fine. Wallingford, Maple Leaf, Greenlake, Roosevelt, Ravenna, Wedgwood are all nice neighborhoods. I'm partial to Wedgwood because they've got a good bakery. View Ridge is a tiny bit further, and also has a good elementary school.