Moving to Springfield, Il in fall 2016 (Lincoln, Washington: houses, established neighborhood, catholic schools)

[bobcitydoc]

Moving to Springfield Il in the fall. I want to live in the Washington Park area but am concerned about the public elementary schools (and middle schools) in the area. Does anyone have an opinion on the Catholic or Lutheran Schools in this area? I was raised Catholic, but my kid was not and has only attended public schools (she is entering 4th grade) Concerned mostly about the resources of these schools for kids who have (slight) learning disabilities. Also, if I must, I could live in the Chatham district, but I want to avoid living in what I would call a "house farm." I know that these hoods tend to draw many young families, but I find them unduly depressing having grown up (and currently live) in older, established suburbs with trees, shops and gridded street networks. Also, any thoughts on lake front living near UIS? Is there any community to be had in these lake facing houses?

Thanks

Bob

[Maintainschaos]

I went to both Catholic elementary and high schools in Springfield. Unfortunately, the elementary school I attended has closed and was converted to part of Benedictine University. The Catholic schools that are still open are all excellent, and the educational opportunities afforded at these schools are very good, although you will pay a premium for them. However, if memory serves me, there is ample opportunity for financial aid, although it will not totally defer the costs incurred.

I agree with your assessment about preferring to live in the Washington Park area over Chatham, as the park neighborhoods are more established and have a nicer feel to them. You may also want to look around Lincoln park for established neighborhoods and homes. However, I *think* these options will be pricier for you over Chatham. Rochester has a nice feel to it, is a little more quaint than Chatham, and also has good schools, which could be another alternative.

I have an aunt who lives along the lake not far from UIS. Most of the neighborhoods, save for a few, aren't as cohesive as you might get along the parks and other parts of Springfield, but the locations can be very beautiful.

[DougStark]

Why on earth are you moving to Springfield, IL? I can't think of a more depressing state capital.

[Maintainschaos]

Originally Posted by DougStark

Why on earth are you moving to Springfield, IL? I can't think of a more depressing state capital.

There definitely are.

Springfield is a perfectly fine albeit sleepy place.

[ElenaL]

My advice? Look for a home near Washington Park, and go to public schools. Catholic schools in Springfield are overrated and offer little-to-no special education services. If you can live near Washington Park and get your student into Butler Elementary and Franklin Middle School, you will be set. These are the hidden gems in Springfield education. Franklin is nothing to look at but the kids there achieve. Both schools have special ed support you will NOT get at private. That also puts you in Springfield HS, which I think might be a better bet than Chatham.

The neighborhood feel of the lake depends on which area you're in.