Miami / Ft Lauderdale to Lexington

[lenahl]

ECPCVC - thanks for clarifying as I looked at Lexington's elementary school and noticed that they have changed to full day for kindergarten. I'm happy to hear that maybe in the good school districts they are less likely to cut certain programs.

Salamandersmile- you bring up many good points especially about the weather. It was very insightful what you said about how MA essentially invented the test. Here in FL i sometimes feel that have welcomed being the guinea pigs of high stake testing with open arms. So many of the horror stories that the Washington Post writes about gives FL as an example. But I definitely will keep my eyes open about MA. I'm not against testing, but the way the school districts near me have implemented is frightening - that's all. I still believe in public education.

Chicagoliz - yes there are other elements but the other elements I'm not struggling with and am clear as to the pros and cons of each. It is the education part that I'm struggling with and doing my research before I visit. I actually have considered other parts of Boston but don't have any questions about that at this time.

[lenahl]

I realize the criteria for a good school is different for different people. So I'm going to go out on a limb and put together my wishlist. I'm looking for a school that is focused on fostering a joy in learning and life-long curiosity. For kids when they are little to have a little fun while learning. And when they are older for the kids to aim as high as they can. My kids don't have to go to the Ivies but would be great if they thought it was at least achievable.

I'd like the kids to have recess and other enrichment programs. For the school not to be overcrowded and for everyone to speak English at school. To have other parents who are involved and also want their kids to get into top colleges / get a job. For the teachers to teach and not just teach to the test or have the kids teach themselves on the computer.

[ECPCVC]

Just to be clear I don't live in Lexington anymore. To be honest, I think Lexington would be too high pressure for what you are looking for. Many public/private schools in the MA area would probably be a better fit. Why just Lexington?

[jms0479]

I would love to hear what school systems you think match the criteria listed here. We are looking at a move to MA from Los Angeles and have the same criteria - good schools that are prioritizing children's love of learning vs. just homework and testing. Realize testing will always be an important part of public schools but we had ruled out Lexington because I feel that it's too much of a pressure cooker (I grew up in MA and this was my impression.) We are looking at Brookline, Newton, Wellesley and Arlington.

Thank you!

[turf3]

I live in Lexington. It's a very nice town with highly rated schools, but the going price for a normal single family house is ridiculous. In another 10 years there will be no housing in town except McMansions, condos, and giant apartment complexes.


If you have a million dollars to spend on a house, it's great.

[lenahl]

Originally Posted by jms0479

I would love to hear what school systems you think match the criteria listed here. We are looking at a move to MA from Los Angeles and have the same criteria - good schools that are prioritizing children's love of learning vs. just homework and testing. Realize testing will always be an important part of public schools but we had ruled out Lexington because I feel that it's too much of a pressure cooker (I grew up in MA and this was my impression.) We are looking at Brookline, Newton, Wellesley and Arlington.

Thank you!

I'm still asking myself the same question but I think it is hard to say / generalize that one particular school system matches the criteria listed here. Even in neighboring towns e.g. Winchester schools may be very different from Lexington school. Even within a school one teacher might be really good while others not so much.

I've heard the same thing about Lexington being a pressure cooker but that is also what I grew up with while still loving learning. Good luck. No easy or right answer.