This comment is spot on. I moved after 46 years of living there due to two burglaries and an unresponsive police department. The sidewalk and home inspections are very selective. It was a winner of a community up until about 1970. The number one talk show announcer stated numerous times that the city of Shaker Heights has been destroyed by high taxes and the politicians. Shaker also has some of the highest court costs in the county. Before moving there check the taxes, the population decline and the high crime neighboring section of Cleveland south of Lee Road. For those in the know Shaker is now one of the worst values in the county. From first to worst in 40 years.
Frank | Solon, OH | Report Abuse

Our experience with the Shaker schools has been outstanding. The opportunities kids have in this District are unbelievable - they start learning Mandarin in first grade and have several languages to choose from by the time they get to Middle School. They also have a fantastic music and fine arts program, International Baccalaureate and AP classes in every subject imaginable - the list is extensive. Most importantly, I feel like my kids have always had teachers who really care about their development and find just the right way to motivate them. We've made great friends with other parents here, too - parents in Shaker are really involved and care about their kids' education.
JG | Beachwood, OH | Report Abuse

I could not disagree more with the above statement. I went through the Shaker schools and moved back here to put three children in the Shaker schools. We could not be happier with the rigorous curriculum, the chance to pursue an IB diploma and the focus on a global education. We could have chosen from any surrounding communities, or sent our children to private schools, but we chose Shaker Heights public schools. The most defining characteristic about this community is the value it places on a quality school system and vast educational opportunities for all students. We are a diverse community and we educate children from all backgrounds and levels of ability. We are proud of how well we educate children at the very top and all levels in between. We consistently have the highest number of National Merit semifinalists in the state and our students are admitted each year to top tier colleges, including the Ivies.
JM | Beachwood, OH | Report Abuse

Re: Home inspections. In a community in which the houses were built primarily in the 1920s, it is important to have a citywide standard regarding maintenance. This is a beautiful community and everyone needs to do their part in preserving it. The city does an exterior inspection every five years to be sure houses are painted and maintained. There is also a Point of Sale inspection to make sure all homes are sold are in good condition. What a nice service for the home buyer, don't you think?Would you be happy if you maintained your house and your neighbor didn't? This helps to ensure that doesn't happen. If you do your part and keep up your house, there is nothing to worry about with inspections. I feel the same about the sidewalks. They are an asset in the community so I don't want them to be destroyed. I believe Shaker is worth every penny and I regard the "hassles" as a service that protects my investment in my home.
JM | Beachwood, OH | Report Abuse