No matter where you're moving - or even whether or not you have children - education is an important aspect for those who are considering relocation.

Anyone with children knows that finding a balance between working and raising kids is always challenging, and part of that balance usually includes some type of childcare. Luckily, there are many organizations that help families ease the burden of finding safe, quality care for their children.

Our area has more than 200 childcare facilities, including nonprofit, church and other community childcare centers; private centers; and company-sponsored childcare. Waiting lists tend to be long at some centers, so make visiting facilities, narrowing down options and getting on waiting lists a priority.

Parents can get information on individual childcare facilities (i.e. licensing, accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, etc.) from the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS).

One of the most important decisions parents make when moving is deciding where to send the kids to school. With all the education options available, it can be hard to wade through the myriad of schools and programs. A good starting place is the Academic Excellence Indicator System (AEIS). Every year the system collects a wide range of information on schools and districts in Texas and puts it into reports that are released in the fall.

List of Charter Schools

List of Area Colleges and Universities

List of Area Private Schools

List of Area Private Schools catering to LD students

List of Public School Districts