St. Louis Area Rentals?

[KatWrangler]

Over the next couple of weeks we have to make the decision of renewing our lease or not. (it is a 60 day notice lease). We are in desperate need of a bigger place with a washer and dryer.

Currently we are in the Affton School District. We are very happy here, but there isn't anything available in our price range to rent. Where else should we look? I know LIndbergh, Rockwood, Kirkwood, Webster are good. Where else?

We were thinking of looking at St. Louis Hills area but then you have City Schools.  How are City schools?  I have to take into account Gabrielle's special needs and Conner having ADHD. 

My husband is going to Forest Park CC.  So we have to take that into consideration.

Hubby is continueing to look for another job.  So if you are hiring, let me know.  LOL

[IngaAnne]

I did just see a 4bdrm home within walking distance of an award winning elementary school in Kirkwood. It's a good price for the area at $1150 a month, but I'm assuming it's out of your price range since you're having trouble finding something. You did mention the best school districts that I know of without going way out into St. Charles or Illinois. The only other district I can think of is Parkway. I think it's considered comparable to Rockwood in quality. Have you looked at places in Ballwin and Manchester, MO? They are safe areas in Rockwood and Parkway school districts that have less expensive homes mixed in with the bigger, pricier places. It's a further drive downtown for your husband, but may be worth a look. The city could definitely be the cheapest for housing, but unfortunately, I've heard nothing but bad things about the public city schools (other than the magnet schools). Everyone I know that lives in St. Louis City either sends their children to private schools or they managed to get into the city magnet schools (there's usually a waiting list). Good luck on your search!

[Dar]

Maplewood has great schools, and it's close to FPCC. It's a tiny school district, though.. but I have a number of friends who are happy with it, including one whose kid was receiving special education services.

[KatWrangler]

Let me look further.  I thought Maplewood School District was ranked a 5 on GreatSchools.org.  Lindbergh and Webster are like 9 or 10.  Affton and Mehlville is 7.  Webster has a hgh ranking.

We have looked at a few places.  Most don't have anything at the moment.  But might have something come August.  But we need to get on the waiting list. 

This is so frustrating.  I hate finding another place to live.  But the thought of living in a such a tight space without a washer and dryer another year, is worse.  LOL

[Dar]

I think part of greatschool ratings is test scores, yes? I'm not sure about that bit in Maplewood, and it is a pretty diverse district with a high percentage of kids getting free lunch... but it's just such a nice, friendly place. The early childhood center (pre-grade 1) has chickens and gardens, and they serve some of the stuff they grow in school lunches. The high school principal and the high school counselor both went out of their way to help Rain get SAT fee waivers, and the times I visited the high school I was impressed by the politeness of the kids and the respectful way all of the teachers and staff members spoke to the kids. My friend whose son was in special ed really got a lot of flexibility and support from them - which they can do, because they are a tiny district with above-average funding.

And the 59 bus goes straight to Forest Park, or your husband could even bike.

City schools... no. We live across the street from one, and I get to hear the kids getting yelled at after recess to "line up before I whip your butt". I know people who are happy with the gifted magnets, but they're the only ones who seem happy...