Westchester Schools (Chappaqua, Scarsdale, Briarcliff) vs Rockland Schools (Pearl River, South Orangetown, Clarkstown) (home)

[formerchigal]

We are currently living in Rockland, recently transplanted from Chicago, and are trying to determine where to settle. School quality is a major factor. We recognize the value in attending a top university and want to set up our children with the ability to do so providing they work hard and want it.

I would love perspective on Westchester schools such as Chappaqua and Briarcliff vs Rockland schools such as Pearl River, South Orangetown, and Clarkstown.

I know Chappaqua is considered one of the top districts but also has a "pressure cooker" reputation. Is it worth the price of admission for living in the area? Or, can I get roughly comparable end results from one of the top Rockland County school districts at a lower price and with less pressure?

My husband grew up in Pearl River and was not impressed by the district at that time but from what I have read and heard locally, the district has greatly improved in the 20+ years since he graduated and rates well on sites such as greatschools. I also hear good things about South Orangetown and Clarkstown. But, I'm not yet convinced that they meet our needs.

Are well-rated Westchester school districts that much better than the well-rated Rockland school districts? I know the answer is somewhat subjective, but would love to get thoughts from those that have some experience with them.

Thanks for any input!

[ponytrekker]

Both have real good school districts. The districts in Westchester you mention are home to kids of ultracompetitive types so that may affect your decision.

I have experience with both sides of the river. In my experience there are more urban professionals in Westchester due to better public transportation to Manhattan. But I know plenty of kids on both sides of the river who have excelled and gotten into great colleges.

[rubygreta]

Same answer I give all the time. If your kid is smart and motivated, he/she will do great in any of these districts and get into a fine college. If your kid is an average or below average student, and is lazy, he/she will do poorly in any of these districts, and will not get into a fine college.

And don't judge a school district by their SAT schools. I would guess that 99% of the Chappaqua parents are college graduates. The same cannot be said about the Pearl River parents. Since there is a strong correlation between the two, Chappaqua has higher SAT scores. So what?

Finally, I cannot prove it, but my hunch is if you had two college applicants who were exactly equal, one from Pearl River and one from Chappaqua, the Pearl River kid would have a better chance of getting admitted.

[hobby49]

you can "get roughly comparable" most anywhere, just depends who you speak with.

[Teach277]

As a person who grew up in Pearl River and taught in Chappaqua Schools, I can say both provide a great education. You will have to "keep up with the Jones'" in Westchester far more than in Rockland. Rockland is more wholesome than Westchester. However, taxes are much better in Rockland... I would base it on your work commutes.