How to Choose the Best School District in the Philly Suburbs

Step-by-Step

1. 1

   Compare consensus top 5 districts

   T/E (Conestoga HS), Lower Merion HS, Radnor HS, Great Valley HS, and Downingtown HS East/West consistently rank in PA's top 25 public high schools.

2. 2

   Confirm elementary feeder by exact address

   Within each district, elementary feeders vary in test scores and demand. Use the district's address lookup tool before offering on any home.

3. 3

   Tour the high school, not just the elementary

   The high school is where the district reputation is built. Most districts allow prospective-parent tours.

4. 4

   Talk to 2–3 current parents per district

   Realtor introductions to current parents will reveal more than any ranking. Ask about class sizes, after-school programs, and special services.

5. 5

   Factor in tax-per-square-foot

   Lower Merion taxes can be 2x Great Valley on the same-sized home. Bake the annual tax into your monthly carrying cost comparison.

FAQs