You might want to look at outskirts of Firewheel, which itself is pretty nice - and expensive. The border neighborhoods are pretty reasonable, though, and of near/same quality; just smaller. For education: in Garland you have choice-of-schooling. Which, unless things have changed, is a rare advantage allowing you a little more freedom of living accomodations/areas. You might also find Sachse (pronounced sack-see) to be worth looking at. Personally, I don't see the appeal, but I know a ton of people who do.

Back to education: Garland offers IB programs (which is sort of like AP with twice as much homework, and extra-curricular requirements). However, on paper, they (as a whole) haven't looked too swift under the new Bush requirements. I can assure you that your kid won't get "left-behind" in Garland, Richardson, or Plano, and you have a pretty safe bet going anywhere in that area. I don't know a ton about the Richardson school systems - outside of what I hear, which has always been praise, from the point of quality of education, and balance. Perhaps someone else can assist with more specific details there.

Boredom: Dallas is presumptuous, self-centered, and arrogant in nature; if you want social camaraderie, you might want to consider moving to Fort Worth, instead. A joke, but closer to a truth with a smile.

Plano schools are very good. (I've heard same about Richardson, but since I live in Plano school district I'm more of an expert on that district). Plano schools are comparable to some of the much more expensive areas and town, and have fantastic services and committed parents.

Hope this helps,
Ken

I grew up right there I am 22 so it wasn't that long bacak I recommend -
Lyles Middle School, Brandenbrurg or
South Garland HS or lakeview
All Great and in your area