targeted search

Hi,
I got a directory of schools that I am slowly rolling out across the different states. I only have three states so far but I have already noticed that the search does not seem to be as targeted as I would like.

1. I would like someone to say search all non-state schools near them / in a specific location.

Instead the list of categories have every listing of that category – which is fine for an first landing on the home page but then they should be able to narrow it down and I can’t see how I can do that.

2. The home page map widget wants to load every listing which means it just spins miserably. Previously, it would ask my location and then show me local schools. I have updated everything recently (after renewing membership). I have followed some advise in the forum about setting a default location but it did not make any difference. Not being sure if it was due to browser settings, I tried loading on my phone but the map is still not working.

3. my categories are a bit of a mess. I would like to add more searchable categories like types of sport offered, vocational courses, languages offered etc. so that a parents can search e.g all schools in the ACT offering French and hockey or all state schools offering French and Hockey etc.;i.e. not be locked into choosing type of schools to be able to search subjects offered.How?

And, yes, I am an amateur just doing this as an enthusiast project.

Thanks
Lise