We commute to school. It is a short commute, about 15 minutes each way, but longer than the 10-yard walk to the bus stop to go to our neighborhood school. About a year ago I did have about an hour round trip commute when my children were going to two different school (of course gas was not $4/gallon then). If the school is a good fit, it can be worth it, especially if you can be creative in the use of your time as you suggested in your post. If you do not foresee any significant negative consequences I recommend giving it a try.
Summer
