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Hello. My husband might be getting a job with American University as an assistant art professor. Complications: coming from Iowa, we like our green space--or, at least, neighborhoods with mature trees. Also, we have a high school age daughter and have heard the schools are less than exemplary. Private schooling probably would be out of our budget, however I guess we could home school if nec. Also, as a professor, he'd need to be at the U. during odd hours so the commute would have to be reasonable. Any suggestions?
AU is surrounded by some very nice areas, some of which are also on the really expensive side. AU Park, Palisades, Foxhall, Woodley Park, Cleveland Park, Tenleytown, Chevy Chase, Friendship Heights. All areas with some beautiful places in them. Yes, the DC school system is generally bad alright, but there are a few exceptions particularly (what a shock!) in upscale neighborhoods. It might pay to look into particular DC schools in that area, but just in case, you could take a step up schoolwise by moving across Western Avenue into Maryland. Pretty much anything along the border from Rock Creek Park southwest to the Potomac would give you some nice choices. Many of these areas are not at all urban and mature trees are common. If you wanted to get even more country/woodsy about things, heading out River Road or MacArthur Boulevard toward Glen Echo and eventually Cabin John would offer that. Prices are going to be higher than what's typically seen in Iowa thoughout this area, but otherwise, many of these choices might fit the bill quite nicely...
Saganista is absolutely correct. If you're going to move to DC, the AU Park neighborhood is the right spot. I grew up there, right next to AU, and it's so green. Greener than most cities, in fact.
As for schools, again Saganista is on target. The AU area, however, has the best schools DC can offer, including Janney Elementary (excellent). Private schools are everywhere, too.
Arlington is more affordable and not too far, but Bethesda would be a more viable option. Two bus lines run by AU, and AU offers a shuttle service from the Tenleytown Metro station.
No, it's not Iowa, but if you're going to live and work in DC, AU Park is THE place to be. If I could afford it, I'd live there, too. Few housing issues there since it's so very popular. Good luck and welcome to DC.
congrats on the position, my wife is an alumni. I'll just echo everything else that has been said. AU park is a great neighborhood.
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