2024 Best Private K-12 Schools in Illinois

• Chicago, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  140 reviews

Alum: The school is what you make of it. There are a lot of amazing teachers with a passion for their material, but if you don't make any effort to learn then you're not going to get much. I started coming during 8th grade and I think this was great timing. I wouldn't have been able to come before for a mixture of financial, mental, and academic reasons. It gave me time to transition into high school and meet new people, although I'd say I found my core group more near the end of sophomore year. It has a reputation as a 'professor's kid daycare' school but that's not fully accurate. The majority of kids are children of UChicago or Lab employees, but they have a diverse pool of jobs and aren't generally that preppy.... Read 140 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,051

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Chicago, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.67 out of 5  61 reviews

Parent: Our two children have attended BISC since nursery and they are now in 7th and 5th. Our children have developed a true love of learning and they love going to school. The teachers are so impressive—they work hard to understand their students keep them engaged. The curriculum is so well thought out and prepares students for higher learning and beyond, from an academic and life perspective. They emphasize values from a young age and encourage leadership. All of this and they worked unbelievably hard to ensure they continued delivering high quality learning during the pandemic. So so impressive!... Read 61 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 689

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Evanston, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.56 out of 5  156 reviews

Parent: Our family came to Roycemore in 8th grade from another independent school in the Chicagoland area. We chose Roycemore because of the small, individual attention each student receives. When my daughter started Roycemore she was quiet and lacked confidence and it made it difficult for her to connect with both her peers and teachers. Once she started at Roycemore she was making friends and building relationships with teachers. My daughter is now an upper school student at Roycemore. She is involved in the yearbook, student government, plays a sport and is involved in numerous other clubs and activities. She has blossomed into a confident, intelligent young person with a bright future and I credit this confidence and growth to the nurturing environment Roycemore offers. She has found her voice and a love for learning. We are so grateful to be a part of the Roycemore community!... Read 156 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 244

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Winnetka, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.42 out of 5  86 reviews

Parent: Our kids have been in the lower, middle, and upper schools at NSCD and we feel incredibly lucky. They are very different kids but both have thrived there. The opportunity to do everything--academics, sports, arts--really helped them grow and broaden their interests. The high school in particular is a hidden gem on the North Shore. The level of individual attention our kids got was remarkable and so different from what we hear about at other local high schools. The combo of small classes and hands-on learning is incredibly impactful. Our current college student found her freshman year to be a breeze because of her academic preparation! College counseling program is amazing and college outcomes strong. Also, the ability to play athletics at a high level all through high school was fabulous. The school doesn't offer every sport you might think of, but the chance to play multiple sports for four years rather than getting cut early on was important to us. Top to bottom a great experience.... Read 86 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 547

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Chicago, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  114 reviews

Middle School Student: At Latin there is an excellent academic program. The staff tries their best to make sure we succeed no matter what we are trying to do. You can choose almost any sport and the teachers will train you and help you grow. There is almost any club you can choose and if you don’t see one you like you can make your own. They are super organized and have been so prepared for any issues that come their way. In general Latin has given me an amazing experience and I definitely recommend!... Read 114 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,155

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Chicago, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  20 reviews

Senior: It's a small school. Everyone knows each other. It's very much a community of foreigners in Chicago. However, there are Americans. Students always come out of my school as bilingual in French and English. I myself am and have also learned German. It's a great opportunity for all children. They have two programs once you reach high school: the IB program and the Bac program. Both are wonderful. My sister has graduated from the IB program and I will graduate from the Bac program later this year. However, this is a very small school. Don't come here if you're searching for the stereotypical high school experience with football and homecoming. I, however, have loved my school as I have gone here since I was three years old. The teachers are all very accommodating and will know you by name even years after teaching you. It's a very nice environment to grow up in. It can feel stifling at times with the small size. I recommend this school for the bilingual experience!... Read 20 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 746

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Chicago, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.42 out of 5  131 reviews

Parent: I have 2 children at Morgan Park Academy in the Early Childhood program and we love it! My kids are engaged and challenged academically and are taught about kindness in a world that seems to have forgotten about it. I love that my children could sing and count in French, Spanish, and Mandarin from the age of 3. The teachers truly care about the students and work hard to make it a great learning environment. Morgan Park Academy is a small school but an awesome community.... Read 131 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 490

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Chicago, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  65 reviews

Parent: As a former black student at Parker, I’ll try an give as unbiased a review as possible. My experience was from 7th grade until sophomore year between the years of 2002-2006. I was fortunate enough to have had the experience of going to a public, private, military, and reform school, so I believe I can say with some accuracy, which school gave me the best education, best connections, and best overall experience, and that was Parker. The access, the small class sizes, the teachers, and the curriculum are all stellar. You essentially get what you pay for as most students who graduate are well rounded, well adjusted, and are given the tools to think critically and contextualize most, if not all situations. With that being said, Parker has always had, and will probably always have an issue garnering more POC and black students into its community. This has mainly to do with the cost of tuition. Ultimately, even with this being the case, Parker is worth it and will give your child a leg up.... Read 65 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 935

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Elgin, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.28 out of 5  43 reviews

Parent: Our rising junior will be entering their 14th year at Elgin Academy, having attended since pre-K. That alone speaks volumes - we've offered our child the opportunity to change schools at lower school, middle school, and high school entrance points. There was no question he wanted to stay. Our child is happy, challenged, and displays growing confidence each year. EA sets the kids up for success by the ready accessibility of the teachers, the challenging curriculum, and approaching each student in a holistic manner. I was especially impressed with how my child's teachers were able to successfully pivot their curriculum to live-streaming during our first go-round with Covid-19 remote learning. They didn't miss a beat; classes were live, with instructors and students fully participating. The commitment of the Elgin Academy teachers and staff are evident across the board. If you're looking for a school that truly cares about your child and their success, check out EA!... Read 43 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 227

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Northfield, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.66 out of 5  106 reviews

Parent: CHA’s Christ-centered culture, and its heart for Christ and for His Kingdom uniquely permeate all aspects of the community! The staff, faculty, administrators are earnestly seeking God and serving Him faithfully – they regard their work at CHA as a ministry that God have called them into, rather than just a daily job. They intentionally model Christ for the students in everything and in various ways. It’s so incredible and a tremendous blessing to have such kind of life-to-life discipleship taking place every day inside and outside of classrooms. Their Christ-like love, kindness, and care have touched and impacted many students and families, ourselves included.... Read 106 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 442

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Elgin, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  15 reviews

Parent: This school is exactly what gifted students need. Students are able (and encouraged) to work up to their own individual potential, always above grade level. When students leave Einstein to attend public school or pursue college, they are more than well-equipped to handle the academics they will encounter. Sports? We're talking about gifted kids here. Yes, some are also talented in various sports, but the primary focus of this school is on well-rounded academics... not having star athletes.... Read 15 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 89

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Chicago, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.7 out of 5  53 reviews

Parent: Our family loves the focus on learning by doing at Bennett. Students and teachers are always working together in project-based learning, and they are being prepared for the real world from a young age through their natural curiosity. Bennett has a great 'best of' approach with a Singapore-based math program focused on depth and mastery to complement the Reggio Emilia approach, which inspires the collaborative learning environment. There is a grading and assessment system in middle and upper school in particular that focuses on developing competencies with deep feedback about student mastery that converts to letter grades for college, but is much more comprehensive with detailed feedback vs traditional letter grades. The upper school students score well above national averages on standardized tests, and on national benchmarked surveys, where students nationally say school makes them feel tired, bored, and stressed, tstudents at Bennett say they are excited, engaged, and love school!... Read 53 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 353

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Rockford, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  68 reviews

Parent: Keith is the perfect setting for students wanting/needing an individualized education curriculum. While the rigor is that of a college preparatory school, the teachers are very supportive in assisting students meet the academic expectations. The emphasis on the arts from LS all the way through the US is quite awesome! The opportunities for growth and development in Art, Music, and Drama is introduced at the PreK level and continues on through LS, MS and US. Keith allows everyone the opportunity for and encourages participation in extracurriculars from sports to quiz bowl to robotics and even individualized clubs.... Read 68 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 248

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Naperville, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.56 out of 5  18 reviews

Parent: NCA has been utterly transformative in the lives of our children. Three of our children are NCA graduates and two more are on their ways. This is a place where our children have been loved, nurtured, guided, and also challenged. They have been immersed in great literature and have engaged in hundreds of hours of thoughtful discussion, wrestling with ideas that have shaped and influenced them in profound ways. In a culture that is increasingly at odds with our Judeo-Christian beliefs, our children have learned how to discern Truth from error and then winsomely and humbly defend it. These are skills that will last them a lifetime and for which we are most grateful. The good, the true, and the beautiful is truly a part of the DNA of this school!... Read 18 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 128

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Chicago, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  40 reviews

Alum: The Chicago Waldorf school prioritizes creativity and experiential learning. It was a great fit for me as a student. Small class sizes allow for more individualized attention and opportunities to participate. I would say, if you are a student who is interested in sports or needs additional educational support, this school might not be the best fit for you.... Read 40 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 366

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Peoria, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  7 reviews

Sophomore: The school provides a unique approach where children learn basic subjects while incorporating Islamic values into each lesson. Students receive instruction in Arabic language, Quranic studies, and Islamic history. The school environment is supportive and inclusive, promoting kindness, respect, and social responsibility among students. Students receive instruction in the Arabic language, Quranic studies, and Islamic history. This approach offers students an education that is both well-rounded and focused, providing a strong foundation for their future academic pursuits and spiritual development.The school's foundational Islamic values are evident in the students' positive behavior, which is reflected in their academic performance and social interactions. In conclusion, I believe this Islamic school is an excellent institution that promotes both academic excellence and spiritual development, offering a dynamic learning environment for students... Read 7 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 206

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Belleville, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  70 reviews

Parent: I have 2 daughters at Governor French Academy (ages 8 & 5). Both girls were enrolled at age 4, so we've been a part of the school for several years now. I can honestly say that we absolutely love & appreciate the faculty & curriculum at GFA! The teachers are focused on providing the best education possible & I can see the progress in my children's learning & progress. I highly recommend this school!... Read 70 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 104

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Hinsdale, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  21 reviews

Senior: Hinsdale Adventist Academy is a Seventh-day Adventist pre-k to 12 school. Committed to the highest standards of academic excellence and Christian values. Where students are strengthened for the lives of purpose, service, and leadership. At this school, teachers provide the best academic learning for all students in a God loving atmosphere. Everyone will get in touch with each other and grow a connection with God. Hinsdale Adventist Academy is such a warm welcoming place, and will start to feel like a little family that you will never forget. There are many fun learning opportunities as well as any help that you may need. No one will ever feel out of place when you are constantly being surrounded by people who care and have a love for Jesus.... Read 21 reviews

• grade A

• Students 171

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Schaumburg, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  78 reviews

Senior: I have been at Schaumburg Christian School for seven years now. It has changed a lot since I started coming to this school. If you are looking for a Christian school with Christian values, this is the place to go. I found my faith at this school and grew as a person. I learned a lot because the teachers here are amazing and they have given me a literal college course in high school. My math teacher told me one time that one of his students who is in college right now is bored in math because they remember what they learned from his class. This is the school you want to go to if you are looking for a good education. The only downside I can think of at this school is that it doesn't have as many opportunities when it comes to dual credit courses or ap courses. It also doesn't have that many clubs, but if you ask around, you can find something fun to do. Overall, if you are looking for a decent private school, this is the place to go.... Read 78 reviews

• grade A

• Students 858

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Du Quoin, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  2 reviews

Sophomore: It is a great school. Teachers are always friendly and willing to help. Classes are of smaller numbers, so you get more of a one on one learning experience. Students are always nice, and willing to help eachother also.... Read 2 reviews

• grade A

• Students 60

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Elmhurst, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  152 reviews

Senior: I’m a senior in high school at Timothy and I've been a student here since preschool. I absolutely love it here. The community is amazing, it's super easy to make friends and the academics are challenging for those who want it. There is also a great support system if you fall behind that puts you right back on track. The teachers are very nice and understanding, and I often become friends with them throughout the school year. There are plenty of extracurricular activities that are open to all students from athletics, to academic clubs like Scholastic Bowl and Mock Trial. The arts are also a strong suit at Timothy with a concert band, orchestra, choirs, theater, and plenty of art classes. I personally am involved with band, both concert and jazz, scholastic bowl, National Honors Society, cross country, and track. Overall, I have loved my experience at Timothy and highly recommend it to anyone.... Read 152 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,273

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Hoffman Estates, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.65 out of 5  26 reviews

Parent: Valeo Academy has been a great school for my son and daughter. They each started in Kindergarten and one has already graduated. The academics are rigorous and classical. They train your student to think and reflect independently. To understand the humanities through a biblical worldview and most importantly, they are continually reminding the students that have great value and have a purpose to fulfill.... Read 26 reviews

• grade A

• Students 104

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Villa Park, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  49 reviews

Senior: Despite the lack of variety regarding classes to choose/take, the teachers are EXPERTS!, the staff is very kind, and us high schoolers all get along well with each other. The classes are very well-taught and useful for future medical experts. The building is very big and has a mosque connected to it! Very religious school to top it off.... Read 49 reviews

• grade A

• Students 636

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Niles, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 2.89 out of 5  9 reviews

Sophomore: I love Logos Christian Academy! Great Romanian Christian school! Teachers are great and care about you individually as a person.... Read 9 reviews

• grade A

• Students 241

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Cary, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.83 out of 5  6 reviews

Alum: Great kids go here, but the opportunities are limited. Grow your character, but don't expect an array of options or assistance.... Read 6 reviews

• grade A

• Students 214

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1