Valence! (the town not the electron, sorry dad)

So, the word is in, and I'll be an elementary school teacher in Valence, FR! Conveniently situated an hour in between Grenoble and Lyon, I think this charming little town will be perfect! Mom is quite happy that this smaller place will be safe, walkable, charming, quieter, SAFE. I have of course been stalking pictures of the place on my new favorite search engine, Bing, with pleasant surprise! I can't wait to see it in person- and the time has finally arrived when I can get down to business planning the more finite details of my trip. I've already met with the consulate in Atlanta for my visa, and I'll have it in 2 weeks!
I'll be teaching at l'école primaire Joliot Curie, named for Irène Joliot-Curie, a Nobel Prize winner for her research on artificial radioactivity and the daughter of Marie and Pierre Curie. I think physics might be a big deal in the area...
Valence is situated on the Ardèche river, and has numerous tourist attractions. It was established as early as the 4th century as a Roman bishopric. One of my favorite features is the Parc Jouvet in the center of town by the river that has 14 acres of trees gardens and ponds (maybe I can run there!?!)
In the meantime, I'm searching for housing in the area. I would love to live with a French girl, if such an opportunity is available, but I need to find one and have her pick me. I feel like I'm in sorority rush again! If anybody knows anybody with a cousin who has a friend in Valence, FR, holla atcha girl!