family community and school in Ottawa

Hi . I have search the boards but didn't find anything specific to what I need help with ..
I have lived in Ottawa but that was early 90's before I moved to the USA.. so I have no idea where to live when it comes to family friendly.
I have been digging and researching for quite a long time now but I am still on the fence about where is the best place to live in Ottawa with my son. He is going into Gr. 6 he is very smart but also has some special needs. I have looked at the School report cards and Kanata seems to be pretty outstanding but the rent/real estate prices are outrageous.
I am wanting a commute friendly area to live - most likely I will have a Gov't job ... but I also want a great school
Recommendations?
Also I assume while hunting I will need to put my cats up in a cat hotel of sorts - suggestions that are not too pricey?
Please help .. I am down to the wire on this by 4 weeks .. YIKES!

Orleans in the east end of town might have better property prices, though you'll still have a good commute if you're working downtown.

Closer in town, Nepean area and Westboro are good, shorter commutes. The Glebe is great, center south, but pricey. Further south on Bank St. you have Greenborough, not bad on all counts.