Originally Posted by
Chris Shaw
I am currently 18 and I am coming up on my last year of highschool this year. After that, I will be attending college likely at George Mason or JMU. My goal in five years is to become a history teacher focusing on US history and preferably politics. I watch FOX Business, Fox, and occasionally CNN and listen to all of the analysts and focus on the stock market, the agenda of the current administration, and legislation that is being moved through Congress. Basicly, I want to get my future students involved and engaged in politics and our democracy. I still have at least five years to think about all of this but I wanted to get started now.
The reason I am looking at Arlington is because it is close to Washington but it isn't Washington. I've heard mixed reviews about the city. Personally, I am looking for a suburb that has neighbors that are very friendly, talk to you .... Also, what is the yard size like in Arlington, what things are there to do, what is the crime rate like, what are the property taxes like on cars and houses, and can you share a detailed opinion of what it is generally like to live in Arlington? In addition, what do you think is the best neighborhood in Arlington?
Also, can you give me an idea of how much teachers make and how well they do in Arlington, specifically at High Schools?
reality check---unless you have money from your parents you will not be able to afford a home in Arlington. Its too expensive.
a startingteacher salary in the DC area starting pay will likely make you eligible for income restricted housing.
The only way you will be able to afford to live bnear your school would be if someone rents out a room or upstairs or basement of their home at something you can afford..
The trade off will be you having to deal with a horrendous commute.
Maybe school districts hae special housing rates for teachers who live in the district.
You may have better luck looking at the outter suburbs. or look in the district in some of the low income/high crime neighborhoods where housing could be cheaper.