Family travel (San José)

My husband and two children and I are planning on spending a year in Costa Rica next year. We have done a lot of research, but run into a lot of sites that are not legit. I would like to get in contact with someone that has brought their young family to Costa Rica. Where is the best, safest places to stay? How is the education? Should I homeschool or do a international school? Are there any volunteer events to help in Costa Rica that you do not have to pay a lot to help? We are going for the cultural experience, and to show our children a life of giving. Would love any advice, direction, experiences.