How to find good school districts and family oriented neighborhoods

[welovedurham]

Originally Posted by findingmesomeday

Now where in the world did I get the idea that there was a national compulsory age for starting school (age 6)?

It's state by state. And *internationally* ... some countries require preschool!

[Miai]

Thanks to everyone who responded to my query regarding family friendly neighborhood/community and schools. The trend where we are moving from was to hold back your child (esp boys) for another year of pre-school, let them start Kindergarden at or near 6 years of age. School district getting less accomodating on that, but compulsory attendance starts at 1st grade here. Children are eligible to start kindergarden at 5. Husband will have his office at home, so commuting daily not much of an issue. Can't wait to make our first trip out to explore. Any further suggestions regarding communities to explore will be appreciated. Ideal would be living near a cozy downtown area where we could walk to shops, resturants, etc....$400,000 range. Is that realistic?