MADISON – Sally Alverson believes Madison is an incredible place to raise a family.

“The quality of the school system is the number one reason we love Madison,” Sally said. “A close second is the family-friendly atmosphere.”

During 10 years as residents, the family “has met so many wonderful friends from all over the country. We can’t imagine what we would do without their support,” Sally said. “Also, we love that the low cost of living allows our family to travel and then return home to top-notch schools and easy living.”

Sally was born in Overland Park, Kansas. Her family moved to Huntsville in the early 1980s for her father’s aerospace engineering job. After graduating from Grissom High School, she earned a bachelors’ degree in civil engineering at Auburn.

After graduating from Auburn, she moved to Atlanta and met future husband and fellow Auburn graduate Marty Alverson. “We quickly realized how hard it would be to raise a family in Atlanta,” Sally said.

After a two-year stint in Vestavia Hills, the Alversons moved to Madison in 2007. “There’s no comparison regarding commutes and ease of everyday activities. The shorter commute times allow our family to spend more time together,” she said.

Their son Luke is in fourth grade and involved in wrestling, soccer, flag football, running and math team. Their daughter Kate, a first-grader, participates in soccer, basketball and gymnastics. Both children attend Heritage Elementary School.

Sally thoroughly enjoys volunteering at Heritage. “I’ve been blown away by the top-notch teachers and administrators at Heritage. I do whatever I can to support them in their efforts,” she said.

At Heritage, she serves as a reading tutor. In December, Sally will graduate with a master’s degree in elementary education. Marty is Senior Director of Subcontracts at SAIC in Huntsville.

Marley, the family’s four-year-old dachshund, enjoys relaxing naps on the couch. Marley does get motivated to walk … but only on Rainbow Mountain and to the food bowl.

“Dave Matthews Band is my all-time favorite band, but the majority of my time is spent driving around listening to pop music with my kids,” Sally said. Eating pizza at Sam & Greg’s on Friday nights has become a family tradition.