You might also ask a realtor in the Lancaster area. Realtors are usually pretty helpful in giving information on local schools.

Looking up the ratings on this site or another, is a good place to start, but . . .

The people who bother to rate their schools at a site like this tend to be biased. MagnetMom is right when she recommends an inspection. In fact, I would recommend getting opinions from actual area residents and current parents of a considered school.

Please make sure though, you actually do a "boots on the ground" inspection as well. Ratings are great, but a change in principal or teacher turnover can make a big difference in less than a year.

And while everyone wants to think of the very best meaning the highest rating, the things that mean the most to your kids' happiness might not *just* be test scores.

My son had a miserable kindergarten experience at a school that I'm sure rates a 10, but it wasn't a good fit for him.

So look around the schools and perhaps do a little reading in the GreatSchools Library here: www.greatschools.net/content/schoolChoiceCenter.page

Good luck, and let us know how it goes!

I totally agree with my friend here, MSmomm, that is the best thing you can do, check the ratings of the schools and compared them, go for the best rated schools, is my best advise, so you won't regret later on. Good luck!

hope:

Please try using the "Research & Compare" button, located in the green strip above the words, "GreatSchools Parent Community." You can type in your Zip code and school level, and this site will show you schools in your area.

Good luck!