how are the schools in abingdon? (Triangle, Big Stone Gap: insurance, crime rate, appliances)

[kevin7196699]

We moved from Raleigh to Big Stone Gap last October by my wife's choice over my vote for Abingdon. Well, Big Stone hasnt been anywhere near what we hoped, too drastic of a change for us and she is finally considering Abingdon. Her biggest concern is how the schools are for our 3 yr old daughter to grow up attending. I dont see how they could be anything but better than the ones here.

There's not much to do here in BSG, not many jobs, and it's too far to anything.

We moved to get away from crime, traffic,and 105 deg summers which did work out, but we went too far. I'm hoping Abingdon would be a better fit.

We both are only high school graduates but I supervise disadvantaged workers at a local business and repair and sell appliances on the side, my wife is in accounting for a large insurance company so I doubt if we would have trouble finding jobs.

I've always liked Abingdon when we stayed there or passed through but is living there a completely different thing like here in Big Stone?
Is there much crime? Are the schools pretty safe? (they all have police and metal detectors in Raleigh because they need them)

thank you

[abdnva]

Abingdon would be a nice medium between Big Stone Gap & Raleigh. I moved to Abingdon from Raleigh myself about 6 years ago. Of course, I am originally from SW Va, so it was a return to my roots for me. I'm not originally from Abingdon, but another, much smaller town in SW Va.

Anyway, Abingdon has lots of activities that aren't available in BSG. Plays, music, entertainment, shopping, etc. The schools are better than in BSG, but truthfully not as good as those in Raleigh. Well, most of those in Raleigh. Nothing approaching Broughton or Creedmoor, etc. But, the point is that your daughter should be well educated in Abingdon. Of the Triangle schools, I'd say that Clayton would be a good comparison. Most importantly, though, is what she does with the education provided her, but I'm sure you already realize that.

As for Abingdon in general? The weather is great, the pace is relaxing, the atmosphere is very friendly. There are lots of activities, both indoor & outdoor, that promote a healthy lifestyle. The crime rate is lower, but it's not Mayberry. Nowhere is, anymore. It's a charming town - not to sound like a travel brochure - that offers you a slice of small town, rural life that's not as common as it should be...

Good luck in your transition, whatever you decide...

[familymom]

Does Abingdon offer much activities for kids? Bowling alleys, skating parks or even a good rec. department with community center? How about town pools? Where is the nearest mall for kids to shop? Lots of questions, hope someone can give me some answers. Thanks

[RSMTN]

Familymom ...... Google Harry L. Coomes Recreation Center for information. Really a nice facility.