Moving to Fargo from SLC

[MNboundmommy]

I too will be moving to Fargo. I have 2 small children, so schools is a big thing for me. Are there any neighborhoods or areas (as far as buying a house goes) that we should stay away from?

[dutchinnd]

A lot of the reputations of the schools really depend on the whole socioeconomic level of the surrounding area. One's perspective always depends on what you already know and what you're comparing the new situation to. The worst of Fargo schools would be quite good compared to parts of North Minneapolis. But for some folks coming from very small towns in ND, some Fargo schools would seem quite rough in comparison. That being said . . .
Perceptions are that on the North side of town, Longfellow Elementary is desirable, then in rank McKinley and Washingon, Horace Mann/Roosevelt (paired buildings w/ a shared principal), and most people would not find the Madison School area desirable.
For South Fargo, Jefferson and Lewis & Clark schools probably have the most challenging populations. Kennedy and Bennett are new and have very suburban settings; Clara Barton/Hawthorne (another pairing) and Lincoln have always been solid neighborhoods and enjoyed reputations as good schools. I myself wouldn't go for the Centennial area because Centennial is such a huge elementary. However, my kids' current principal will be there next year and we have enjoyed a good working relationship with him over the past five years.
But again--there are great and not-so-great teachers in every building, and overall the school district is very committed to the kids.

[MNboundmommy]

Great starting point! Thanks so much!