Replumbing in-ground Pool

Greetings,
I am replumbing my pool as I had a broken valve. My pool is a cement, in-ground, and 18x36. I have 2 intakes, from the skimmer and from the bottom. Is it critical the valves that control these intakes be near ground level? For ease of use, I'd like to replumb the system so they are about 2 feet above ground, but I'm concerned I might have issues with priming next spring. Also, I'm in Michigan where we freeze during the winter.
Any advice would be appreciated!!

Thanks!