When you're considering buying a piece of real estate in Scottsdale or Phoenix, one of the key factors is going to be the schools your children attend. Arizona has made remarkable progress in its school system with the advent of the AIMS test (Arizona Instrument to Measure Standards). It sets the bar for graduation by requiring students to pass the test before moving on. Despite early criticisms, the test seems to be finding friends among parents and administrators alike. To see how individual schools fared, visit the Arizona Department of Education website.
There you'll be able to find a school, query the results of the students and teachers, and find other useful information that will allow you to make a decision on real estate in Phoenix or Scottsdale that is right for your family.
Another excellent resource for your Scottsdale or Phoenix real estate decision is GreatSchools.net. They are a non-profit organization that exists to help you find schools that are right for your family. Visit them and check out all the excellent resources that will help you find the school that directs where you'll want to find your piece of real estate in Arizona.