Richmond, VA - what is it like?

[NewJeffCT]

For some strange reason lately, I have been getting contacted about good jobs for me outside my home state of Connecticut. The most recent one is in Richmond, VA.

The thing I like best about CT is that you don't have to go very far to find a town with good public schools, and with a daughter that is almost 2 years old, that is a concern for the future.

What can Virginians (or ex-Virginians) tell me about the Richmond area? Where would I live if I wanted a town with good public schools? Is the Richmond area Freeperville? I don't want to be the sole liberal in a town with a bunch of good ole boys riding around in pickups with confederate flags & shotguns.

Anything else?

Thanks