How to choose a Virginia Beach City Public Schools (houses, neighborhood)

[MidwestBeachMom3]

My family is moving to Virginia Beach soon. We had the chance to visit many schools before our final move and this is what we have found important.

We have read report cards from Virginia Beach City Public Schools and also independent websites devoted to accessing schools. Also, if you get the chance to visit before moving, talk to people who live there. All of this information has been really helpful to help guide our decision. I know much of this advise has been given before-but believe me is very helpful.

We have visited many schools, some I might add have been deemed on the "best" end and some on the "worst" end for some individuals. While I do not want to comment on our favorites, I can say we have seen really only very professional and helpful staff across much of the the Virginia Beach City School system.





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[Erma]

Glad to hear you did your research prior to making your decision.

[emilyanne36]

I have narrowed down to Kellam, Cox and First Colonial. Any opinions?

[GreatDaneMom]

All 3 are good schools. My 2 sons & I graduated from Cox, my nephews graduated from First Colonial, and my sibling teaches at Kellam. You won't do wrong with any of these. IMHO, I would look next to which of the 3 areas you prefer to live in for other reasons.

[shellytc]

GreatDaneMom is dead on. You have narrowed down to 3 school districts that you feel will meet the needs of your children. Will they all be in high school? or are you also dealing with middle and elementary? so drill down into those schools as well.

Now, after that, start looking at price ranges, and value for your money... so you can find the neighborhood that feels right to you.

Shelly

[twinArmageddons]

I may be a bit biased in my opinion, but Princess Anne was, and in my opinion, still is, the best High School in the area.

[Erma]

Originally Posted by Langlen

I may be a bit biased in my opinion, but Princess Anne was, and in my opinion, still is, the best High School in the area.

My neighbor lady said the same thing. She moved to the area for Princess Anne high just so her son could graduate from there. Many others who have kids going there feel the same and will not move anywhere else just because they think so much of PA high.

[shellytc]

PA is a good high school, and certainly has the test scores, but remember.... it houses the IB program so its test scores are difinately affected by those high performing students : )

Shelly

[twinArmageddons]

Originally Posted by shellytc

PA is a good high school, and certainly has the test scores, but remember.... it houses the IB program so its test scores are difinately affected by those high performing students : )

Shelly

It's not just the test scores, however. THe school itself is really great. The teachers are fantastic, the environment is fun, and it's just an overall great experience.

I often say that PAHS was probably the best years of my teenage life.

[shellytc]

that is awesome Langlen!! it is always good to have a true testimonial!! Good for you : )