Moving to hagerstown (Smithsburg: schools, shop, safe)

[allofus]

My family and I are moving from dc to hagerstown in the next week. Could anyone tell me anything about hagerstown; crime, schools. and things to do. Anything so we can be prepared for things. We are moving close to Mesa Terrace. We are an african american family and am also alittle worried about the kids being accepted. Any information about any of this would help. Thanks.

[BrandNew]

I am sure that you are moved in by now and can see that you had nothing to worry about. I just moved from Hagerstown to the DC area for school, so it is like we switched places!

In comparison to DC, you will probably feel like there isn't much to do, aside from shopping at either the mall or the prime outlets. For the kids, there are bowling alleys, skating rinks (roller and ice), and parks. If you head east, past Smithsburg, you can go to Cunningham Falls and Greenbrier State Park.

Hagerstown is a pretty safe place, so for the most part, you don't have much to worry about. I would just avoid walking through downtown at night.

Most of the schools in Hagerstown have been recognized for their quality of education. I cannot recall the schools at the top of the list, but you may want to check the Herald Mail's website - they may have archived articles regarding this.

Your children probably will not have any issues with being accepted. Although Hagerstown has been accused of being racist in the past, I think that today the community is open and accepting.

Best of luck!