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2022 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

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963 results

  1. Payton College Preparatory High School

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 9-12
    • 391 reviews
    #1 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Junior: Although Walter Payton is a PWI, the school culture and atmosphere are very welcoming and feels like a community. There are people of many cultures and backgrounds which makes finding friends easier and natural in this school setting. Even academically the teachers are very welcoming and want you to succeed. There are afterschool and enrichment clubs and programs created by students and teachers that offer tutoring and community building. There are clubs that allow you to explore your hobbies and find new ones! Also, clubs that connect you to others of similar ethnic/ racial backgrounds as you like BSU (Black student union) and LAC (Latin American coalition). Walter Payton wants everyone to feel like they belong and makes sure to discuss injustices that happen in the world around us to promote allyship and support minority students. Overall Walter Payton offers great academic classes that prepare you well for college and makes sure you know you belong and are capable of great things...Read 391 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,220 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  2. Northside College Preparatory High School

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 9-12
    • 588 reviews
    #2 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: Northside is very inclusive and lively. Students are involved in all parts of the school such as the production of a musical, the display of sculptural work, and even the spread of awareness for minority groups. At Northside, the individual is strengthened in personal and academic identity. It’s rigorous tasks and unique class schedules prepare students for college academia. As a fellow Northsider, I can say that there was a difficult adjustment to Northside’s expectations, however, I have found an amazing and supportive community alongside it. If you are considering Northside, I hope you are warmed by it’s strengths in education and community!...Read 588 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,078 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  3. Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy

    • Public School
    • AURORA, IL
    • 10-12
    • 338 reviews
    #3 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: I'm a senior here and the academics are top-noch, although it would be nice to see some more Engineering-focused options. However, for those looking to studying in medical, chemistry, mathematics, or physics-related industries, this is definitely a school you want on your list!...Read 338 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 631 Students
    • 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  4. Adlai E. Stevenson High School

    • Adlai E. Stevenson High School District No. 125, IL
    • 9-12
    • 1,230 reviews
    #4 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: Stevenson is one of the best schools not just in rating systems like Niche, but in real life too. The teachers are (usually) super welcoming, eager to help and understanding of your circumstances. The club/extracurricular list alone is staggering, the food options are always diverse and special events are planned like a private philanthropic event. The school is incredibly competitive, but after a while you learn to focus on yourself and leave comparisons in the past. I've loved my time at Stevenson!...Read 1,230 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 4,271 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  5. Whitney M. Young Magnet High School

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 7-12
    • 1,123 reviews
    #5 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: Whitney Young is a school for everyone. I wanted to go because it was diverse and artistic. I personally have never seen any overt bullying, and everyone is really nice there. The teachers genuinely care about their job and want to help us learn, as well. No matter who you are, you will have an amazing education and find amazing friends. Just make sure to keep up with the homework!...Read 1,123 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,198 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  6. Jones College Prep High School

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 9-12
    • 702 reviews
    #6 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: My experience at Jones was wonderful! Every teacher I had was passionate about their subject and advocated for their students. They did a great job at navigating what high school looks like during a pandemic. If I could go back in time and re-choose where to attend high school, I would still choose Jones in a heartbeat...Read 702 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,968 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  9. Glenbrook North High School

    • Glenbrook High Schools District 225, IL
    • 9-12
    • 434 reviews
    #7 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Sophomore: In general, Glenbrook North High school offers one of the best education program and curriculum in Illinois! Our school provides many educational opportunities and challenges for each and every student currently attending this specific high school! In other words, GBN provides high-level sport activities, clubs, as well as projects! As a current sophomore, I've been able to obtain leadership and social skills as a community member of GBN! As a regular participant of Key Club and Medical Club, I've been able to achieve long-term goals I've set for my overall high school experience through interacting with other students and assisting their needs. I am proud to say every single teacher at our school is fair and equal to each and every student of Glenbrook North High school...Read 434 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,040 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  10. Hinsdale Central High School

    • Hinsdale Township High School District No. 86, IL
    • 9-12
    • 368 reviews
    #8 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Alum: My experience prepared me well for college and provided a number of opportunities for academic competition. I especially enjoyed participating on the Math Team and Scholastic Bowl team. Competition between students was intense, but it never interfered with our relationships. I formed some lasting friendships...The teachers were of high caliber. They cared about our success and challenged us. Some of the toughest classes were also some of the most enjoyable because of the quality instruction.One area for improvement would be better integration with the program for the hearing-impaired. A few deaf students attended normal classes with the help of a sign-language interpreter, but it would have been beneficial for all if a higher number of deaf students were incorporated into the mainstream curriculum. An initial sign-language class for all freshmen could have gone a long way to building relationships between the otherwise very segregated hearing and hearing-impaired students...Read 368 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,682 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  11. New Trier Township High School

    • New Trier Township High School District No. 203, IL
    • 10-12
    • 549 reviews
    #9 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: New Trier is among the highest performing high schools of the country, however that comes with its downsides. While the teachers and students are incredibly gifted and driven, there is absolutely a significant amount of stress that follows. The pressure at New Trier to succeed at the same level of one's classmates is ever present. Although there is danger in the comparison among students, the staff is wonderfully equipped to tend to each students individual needs. It also tends to be an inclusive environment for students of all abilities, which is unique for most high schools!...Read 549 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,034 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  12. Glenbrook South High School

    • Glenbrook High Schools District 225, IL
    • 9-12
    • 520 reviews
    #10 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Alum: The school’s education is incredibly thorough, and has options for every level of learning. There are also clubs for any interest which are well-funded and allow for fun experiences. The teachers are great, and the cafeteria food is really good!...Read 520 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,123 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  13. Vernon Hills High School

    • Community High School District 128, IL
    • 9-12
    • 361 reviews
    #11 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: My experience at Vernon Hills High School has been wonderful! I have grown to enjoy my academic studies, have had the ability to join clubs and athletics, and had the chance to grow amazing connections with teachers that I am able to call my role models. The hands-on environment from the community grants superb opportunities that most schools do not support. I also love that I was able to know most of my classmates due to the number of people who also attend Vernon Hills High School. It allows me to create more friendships and connections with unforgettable people. My time at VHHS has been great, and I learned important life lessons from all aspects of high school!...Read 361 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,482 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  14. Neuqua Valley High School

    • Indian Prairie Community Unit School District No. 204, IL
    • 9-12
    • 1,102 reviews
    #12 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: I loved my time at Neuqua, because for the most part, I had excellent teachers who were excited and knowledgeable about the material they were teaching; if I ever struggled with classroom material, it was easy to meet with teachers in the morning before school and clarify. Most of my teachers were approachable and committed to their classes, and if you take AP classes, the AP teachers are excellent at challenging and supporting you when teaching the material and when reviewing for AP Exams. Neuqua is also a large school, with about 4,000 total students, so it is easy to meet a lot of new friends even if you move in to the district like I did. There are countless extracurricular opportunities, and lots of sports available as well. Overall, even though Neuqua made me work really hard, it was all in preparation for college. I will never forget my experience!...Read 1,102 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,477 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  15. Lake Forest High School

    • Public School
    • LAKE FOREST, IL
    • 9-12
    • 169 reviews
    #13 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Alum: This school is a very high-top type of school. The outside environment is beautiful! The teachers here are very well educated and want the best for your education and future. This school is very diverse and offers very diverse programs to learn about different cultures and perspectives. The classes are very well taught and this school also provides fun activities. It isn't just booked, this school gives you the whole experience. To dances, clubs, sports teams, and other fun things and events. During my years at LFHS, I was able to gain the skills to become a great student and feel well educated. If I would have kids, I would 100% make sure they attend this high school...Read 169 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,537 Students
    • 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  16. William Fremd High School

    • Township High School District No. 211, IL
    • 9-12
    • 611 reviews
    #14 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: I love Fremd high school, it is like a second home to me. This school does so much for its students, both in academics and extracurriculars. The course options are incredible with unique classes like fashion design and bioengineering, and there are so many clubs and sports to be a part of! From theatre to bowling to photography to coding, there are so many extracurriculars to choose from. The teachers are all very nice, I've personally had VERY few negative experiences with teachers. Everyone seems to look out for each other at Fremd, and there is plenty of kindness to go around. The atmosphere is positive and uplifting, and this allows students to get so much work done! I can confidently say that this school has made me brighter, it has helped me develop my skills, and it has made me much more confident in myself as not only a student, but as a person...Read 611 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,599 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  17. University of Illinois High School

    • Public School
    • URBANA, IL
    • 7-12
    • 171 reviews
    #15 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: A pretty good school in the heart of Central Illinois, Champaign-Urbana! A very interesting place, though.Read 171 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 306 Students
    • 306:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  18. Lane Tech College Prep High School

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 7-12
    • 3,118 reviews
    #16 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: Lane Tech is an amazing school where the students are diverse and the resources are numerous. Students have access to well-qualified teachers and aid. Lane Tech excels in all areas: the sports teams dominate their fields, there are over 100 student-led clubs, our theater productions and choirs are superb. This list can continue endlessly because Lane Tech stops at nothing to succeed and provide its students with as many resources and opportunities as possible. The only problem with Lane Tech is that its students do not always feel heard, thus this year alone Lane Tech has started numerous committees dedicated to voicing the opinions of the student body and bringing problems directly to the administration. I would highly recommend this school to anyone because it serves everyone. My biggest piece of advice is to network and not to prohibit yourself from branching out. Instead, put yourself out there! There will always be a group willing to accept you with open and loving arms...Read 3,118 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 4,500 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  19. Deerfield High School

    • Township High School District No. 113, IL
    • 9-12
    • 306 reviews
    #17 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: I honestly love the school, great teachers, amazing University level resources, great athletics, etc. However, there's a huge huge lack of diversity, and many of the students are truly bent on this idea of perfection and care more for academics than their own mental health. It's honestly a blessing and a curse because it shows how competitive students are, but also shows how much students hold down not only themselves but their peers as well when performance is not up to par with their standards...Read 306 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,588 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  22. Highland Park High School

    • Township High School District No. 113, IL
    • 9-12
    • 271 reviews
    #18 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Alum: I had an an incredible experience at Highland Park High School, particularly in their theatre department. The creative outlet that theater has provided me has shaped who I am and what I want to do with the rest of my life. I started acting in High school and acting classes and rehearsals gave me a new purpose for school and newfound passion. In Highschool, I did Acting I, ll, lll, directing, and ATP as well as being taking part in over 12 productions. I had incredible teachers and mentors who helped me balance my passion for the arts with my academics. Majority of my teachers were incredibly accommodating to my busy rehearsal schedules leading up to performances. Aside from theatre I found that most of my teachers were extremely willing to meet to give extra help. Math and science have always been struggles that I have struggled with and almost all my teachers were more than happy to meet before or after school for extra help...Read 271 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,879 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  23. Glenbard West High School

    • Glenbard Township High School District No. 87, IL
    • 9-12
    • 349 reviews
    #19 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Parent: My children are currently the third generation to attend Glenbard West High School. This is not unusual, because families move to and stay in the community for the school. It is an amazing school with top notch and caring teachers, a dedicated administration and a high maintenance parent community. They continually exceed expectations and when they don't, the school addresses concerns to improve. When graduates attend college, they often reference that they were well prepared and were able to thrive in their higher education environment. The school works hard to be an environment that is welcoming to everyone!...Read 349 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,360 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  24. Metea Valley High School

    • Indian Prairie Community Unit School District No. 204, IL
    • 9-12
    • 666 reviews
    #20 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Alum: Overall, Metea Valley High School was an excellent experience. The teachers there were always very helpful and considerate! The administration was amazing when it came to college preparation and understanding special circumstances such as study abroad. The facilities were always clean and easy to get to. School spirit was always high and energetic and I will always remember the music department for the amazing memories we created together...Read 666 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,917 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  25. James B. Conant High School

    • Township High School District No. 211, IL
    • 9-12
    • 531 reviews
    #21 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: Conant High School is an amazing school! They work hard to ensure that every student gets the education that they need and that everyone is supported. They also have fantastic extracurricular opportunities! Forms sports to music, you can find a club for any interest that you may have. Currently, with the corona virus, Conant is doing an excellent job making sure that every student is taken care of, and is making it a priority to try and hold a graduation ceremony for the seniors this summer...Read 531 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,355 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  26. Naperville Central High School

    • Naperville Community Unit School District No. 203, IL
    • 9-12
    • 583 reviews
    #22 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: Naperville Central High School provides a numerous amount of opportunities and involvement for their students. Additionally, they have representation of all genders, races, and religions through their activities and in classes. I am also incredibly proud that my school is helping students in need during a pandemic by helping them with meal assistance!...However, I feel as if my school should take in consideration of extra education about safety. More specifically, the safety of individuals themselves. These reasons have made my overall experience with this school very enlightening. I feel very included and cared for at all times.Read 583 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,677 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  27. Naperville North High School

    • Naperville Community Unit School District No. 203, IL
    • 9-12
    • 519 reviews
    #23 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Junior: Naperville North is a school where everyone can feel included and welcome. In addition, the teachers are passionate, caring, and talented, creating a positive learning environment for everyone. With the hundreds of clubs, sports, and activities to get involved in, there is truly something for everyone! In addition, the school has many different types of classes so students can really explore future career choices and get to know themselves better. Not only is there a wide variety of classes, but these courses prepare students for further education in college or various trade studies. There are many AP classes available to students as a way to test out of specific college classes. Overall, Naperville North is a wonderful place to spend the four years of high school. Between the passionate teachers, positive learning environment, and wide variety of classes, students are truly on a path to excel...Read 519 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,700 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  28. Evanston Township High School

    • Evanston Township High School District No. 202, IL
    • 9-12
    • 691 reviews
    #24 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: I love that ETHS's has a variety of clubs and resources. One of the few clubs I have the joy of participating in is Asian Heritage Alliance, and Science Olympiad. Resources that I have accessed are The Hub, Wildkit Academy, and Counseling Colege and Career Services. There is also a new program where you can conduct your own research with other science teacher, anyone is allowed to participate and I have had the chance to work with another student on preventing algal blooms. Through ETHS I have been able to explore my passion in science and get the support I need to do well for my future. I think that ETHS can improve in listening to the students more. Although ETHS holds activities and clubs that students can participate in but I feel that sometimes our suggestions towards the school don't actually improve anything...Read 691 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,602 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  29. Libertyville High School

    • Community High School District 128, IL
    • 9-12
    • 482 reviews
    #25 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Junior: I love Libertyville High School! There are so many different classes and clubs available so that you can focus on your interests, and there are multitudinous resources available before, during, and after school. The teachers are always offering help to all their students and are willing to meet with them if they have questions. There's a lot of school spirit and fun events-they even rent out huge areas in Chicago (ex/the botanical gardens, Navy Pier, etc) for their prom!...Read 482 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,805 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  30. Sponsored

    Prince George's County Public Schools

    • School District
    • UPPER MARLBORO, MD
    • 551 reviews

    Freshman: I have been going to this school since 2018, first as a dual enrollment student, and now fulltime. I know the school very well, gone as an evening student, day to day student, and finally now as a virtual online student. The school has everything, from facilities, to resources, to programs, and great food! If you are looking for a cheap and affordable community college education, Prince Georges County Community College is the perfect place to enroll...Read 551 Reviews

    • 135,952 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  35. Sponsored

    Woodberry Forest School

    • Private School
    • WOODBERRY FOREST, VA
    • 9-12
    • 38 reviews

    Junior: Woodberry has been the best decision I have ever made. The teachers are second to none at offering their assistance to students who have trouble studying or do not understand the ideas they teach. At Woodberry, academic success is less about the grades and more about the spirit you develop when tackling problems. Being at Woodberry has taught me that the best way to problem solve is to meet the adversary head on and not be afraid to fail. At Woodberry, failing after attempting something challenging is met with compassion and teachers who are more than happy to help you up again and give you another shot...Read 38 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 406 Students
    • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  36. Sponsored

    The New School of Northern Virginia

    • Private School
    • FAIRFAX, VA
    • 6-12
    • 26 reviews

    Parent: Both of our kids started at The New School in ninth grade, after eight years of public school. It was one of the best parenting decisions we've ever made. Everything about this school is terrific. The teachers are passionate, inspired, and inspiring. Small, topics-driven, seminar-style classes foster creativity and independent thinking, while the welcoming atmosphere makes everyone feel at home. Our two kids turned out to be very different kinds of learners, but both thrived at The New School. Our youngest graduates next year, and we'll be sad to think of not having that day-to-day connection. Can't say enough about this wonderful school!...Read 26 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 140 Students
    • 5:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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