spokane, spokane and more spokane (Liberty Lake: crime, neighborhoods, school districts)

[jlwells1205]

My family and I are moving to Spokane this summer. I've read posts that have offered some ambigious or harsh responses. I get the whole crime and drug thing, I get that it gets cold, and something about homeless people. Some have mentioned nicer, more affordable housing "a few miles" outside of the city, which areas would these be? I have young kids and I'm looking for a suburban type of atmosphere... family-friendly neighborhoods, well kept parks, solid schools, restaurants, stores, access to outdoor rec, etc. Liberty Lake seemed nice, but are their others. My husband will be working downtown, so we'd like to stay within a decent commute. I'm also having a problem discerning the different school districts and which are some of the strongest. If they are all about the same, then that is fair too. I'm a teacher, so I'm really interested in any districts that frequently face turmoil and disorganization as well as schools and districts that are known to be schools with poor results and lacking opportunities for children. Thanks a ton for your help!!!