2024 Best School Districts in the Chicago Area

• Lincolnshire, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.24 out of 5  121 reviews

Alum: As a former student for Stevenson, I recommend sending your child here! They have great resources and the teachers are always going to push your child to be the best. If I was falling behind, they would set me up with resources that made me succeed. Because of this, I was able to graduate with honors! The food is wonderful and they have a ton of healthy options. They take each student into consideration and always offer the best solution to any problem. The only reason why I took off a star is because of the sports. I played volleyball and I felt like sometimes politics got involved and it affected playing time for some of the students. This created a lot of toxicity within the team and created unnecessary drama. However, on the bright side, a lot of the sports teams perform really well and the coaches do care about the players well-being. That was the only downside of attending Stevenson. Overall, I really enjoyed being a student there and I recommend parents send their kid there!... Read 121 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 4,392

• Glenview, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.11 out of 5  74 reviews

Sophomore: I feel grateful to be in a school with many forms of education. I like how our schools had time to socialize and connect with friends in after school activities. However it is difficult to meet your friends if you have no classes with them during the day. The school has no windows in most classrooms so it feels stuffy during the day. Plus some of the bathrooms are too old and dirty. I want to see my school work on making the building more clean and bright with windows. This can reduce electricity use and increase fresh air during class. Having classes that benefit students for the future will also be a good choice for the school, like self defense in action and what to watch out for when in college and job life.... Read 74 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 4

• Students 5,132

• Evanston, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.2 out of 5  44 reviews

Senior: My experience at ETHS has had its highs and lows. The positives definitely outweigh the negatives since I do my best to see the good in everything. A few positive things that were there were the friends that I have made and all of the student activities I have attended such as sporting events and community service. I also have had good relationships with all my teachers and was treated with equality and respect. What I wish would change, and pretty much the whole student body agrees with this, is the cafeteria policies. We should be free to eat at whatever cafeteria they choose, being assigned a cafeteria and only having one cafeteria open to all with limited space doesn't make sense. For example, what if the weather conditions are too brutal to leave campus? Then what? Anyways, the only negative experience I've ever dealt with was getting a poor grade on something and having to retake them to raise my grade, but other than that I think I've had a pretty normal experience at ETHS.... Read 44 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 3,727

• Highland Park, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4 out of 5  17 reviews

Senior: Some teachers are very kind and will do all in their power to help you succeed. While some other teachers- like in the math department have more difficulty aiding students. Otherwise, school atmosphere is great. Student's can find many different classes that fit in their target major and can take many advanced courses. School lunch has been aimed to be more healthy, including salads, fruit cups, and changing menu. There are many recourses in the school that help aid students in their educational development, such as counselors, college counselors, ARC, Testing center, and teacher-student meeting times.... Read 17 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 3,298

• Hinsdale, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.32 out of 5  41 reviews

Alum: I loved going to hinsdale central all four years of my high school experience. Education wise, i enjoyed every inch of it and learned so many new things and the teachers at central were involved and helped with every area of my education. I also was in various clubs and activities that helped with making and meeting new friends and new people. The school also made me feel safe and welcome as a person of color. The only thing I would like to change would probably be the lunch period of twenty five minutes. The line for food is already long as it is and the wait time is about ten to fifteen minutes which leaves you with little to no time to eat and socialize.... Read 41 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 3

• Students 3,894

• Palatine, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.25 out of 5  112 reviews

Senior: I’ve spent all of my 4 years if high school at D211. However, I only got to understand the depth of the culture and community during my Junior and Senior years. I had Zoom learning Freshman and Sophomore year so I couldn’t bond with the students and staff at my school as usual. When I did come back in-person, I started to notice how involving the district is for education, extracurriculars, and careers. One major thing I can commemorate D211 for is not giving up on students up until graduation day. Even after spending less time in-person at this district I can confidently say that they care very much about student involvement. One thing I would improve or change would be testing students on their abilities on an advanced level to see if they would be capable of taking harder curriculums. Other than that D211 is doing a splendid job at ensuring students futures and involvement.... Read 112 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 7

• Students 12,121

• Skokie, IL•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.29 out of 5  56 reviews

Junior: I believe that Niles Township Community High School is incredible and here's why. The teachers have a huge impact on my education because they are very understanding, push me towards my goals and they bring positive energy with them in each lesson. Another reason why I like Niles Township community High School is because of the new opportunities that they have laid out for students. These opportunities are about personal interest or to simply get further into your education. These opportunities are open to all students.... Read 56 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 4

• Students 4,619

• Northfield, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.04 out of 5  48 reviews

Alum: I graduated from New Trier a little over a decade ago and am currently working in education. As I continue to advance in my career and experience new school districts, it becomes increasingly evident to me that New Trier is truly one of the best schools in the nation (if not the best!). Though I was a bit jaded as a teenager and didn't realize how good I had it, New Trier offers endless academic and extracurricular opportunities that are practically unheard of in a majority of school districts. I was able to start a service club with my best friend that still exists to this day! Beyond that, though New Trier has a reputation for lacking diversity, I personally formed friendships with a wide range of peers from different cultures who were first-generation Americans like myself. To this day, I constantly hear news of my former classmates excelling in their careers (even more so than my peers from college) -- which is just another reason I am so grateful to call myself a New Trier alum!... Read 48 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 3,889

• Vernon Hills, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 3.14 out of 5  42 reviews

Senior: Libertyville Highschool is an amazing school to learn at and an environment to learn at. There are many amazing teachers that are very passionate about teaching and helping you no matter what, even if they have to stay a little longer. There are various courses you can take ranging from philosophy and film to jewelry making. At Libertyville Highschool there is also a long list of clubs that are available for all students to join such as the Cr-8 which is the engineering club at the school or the cosmetic club. In addition, it has energizing traditions such as having pep rallies before the dances and wearing kid backpacks when you are a senior.... Read 42 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 3,359

• Naperville, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.3 out of 5  82 reviews

Senior: I wouldn't change anything. I enjoyed my four years at Central! The entire faculty work very hard to ensure that all students receive a quality education.... Read 82 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 22

• Students 16,245

• Barrington, IL•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  63 reviews

Parent: Barrington school district is awesome, but still clings to its sports side, in my opinion. It is a great school district for athletes, I just wish they would appreciate academic excellence just as much as they appreciate athletes. However, there are a lot of amazing academic programs. There are two language immersion programs (Spanish and Chinese) those attract families to the district, very solid extended programs (math, English, science, art) for children who tend to learn faster than their peers, many-many fantastic teachers at every school and extensive support programs for children who need help. What I love the most about our school district is that how flexible it is. The administration listens to parents and students, they do try to accommodate different needs and "wants". They handled the pandemic situation much, much better than many sister school districts. We moved to Barrington from another district because of schools, and would do it again in a heartbeat!... Read 63 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 12

• Students 8,161

• Arlington Heights, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.23 out of 5  87 reviews

Alum: As a 2019 alum of Rolling Meadows High School, I can say that my overall experience at the school was positive. The school provided a rigorous academic curriculum with many opportunities for extracurricular activities, sports, and clubs. One of the strengths of Rolling Meadows High School was the diversity of the student body. I had the opportunity to meet and learn from students with different backgrounds and experiences, which helped me to develop my own perspective on the world. The teachers at Rolling Meadows High School were knowledgeable and dedicated. They pushed me to think critically and to develop my analytical skills. The school offered many advanced courses, such as AP and honors classes, which prepared me well for college-level work. One area that could be improved was the school's facilities. Some of the classrooms and equipment were outdated, and the school could benefit from modernization and renovation.... Read 87 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 10

• Students 12,073

• Aurora, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.3 out of 5  97 reviews

Junior: Being a student within the school district 204 is great as is it with all of it's amazing statistcal scholar levels, but being a student at Metea Valley is a huge bonus for me. The school has tons of diversity for students to branch out and learn something new and unfamilar to their personal culture and traditions. There's so many clubs that are open and welcoming to all individuals that it would make you question just about how many clubs can one think of! My school is not like the others because our school spirit screams louder than a chalk board being scratched.Our teachers pour their heart and soul into applying their teaching methods upon us just to see us graduate and though it may be tough for them sometimes, we all succeed in the end. We have an motto that we go by there, and it's L.I.F.E. L as in live, I as in integrity, F as in focus, and E as in effort. It may not be the biggest of school, but once you come, you won't want to leave. So with that being said, GO GO MUSTANGS!... Read 97 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 33

• Students 25,815

• Crystal Lake, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.4 out of 5  57 reviews

Senior: Prairie Ridge High School has been nothing but supportive, and caring, and it has honestly brought out the best versions of myself. I feel like I have truly found myself through PRHS. The teachers, staff, and students are the best of the best. This school district is excellent, thank you District 155!... Read 57 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 5

• Students 5,598

• Orland Park, IL•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  63 reviews

Freshman: I’ve only attended a school in District 230 for 8 days, however since the start of my 8th grade year they’ve been engaged in finding a schedule to set me on the right track for the next four years. Each teacher goes above and beyond what I would have expected when taken into consideration they have hundreds if not thousands of other students in their classes. The advisors and counselors reach out before you have to, the entire environment radiates warmth. You wouldn’t expect to feel like such a piece of a puzzle in such a huge school but you definitely do.... Read 63 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 3

• Students 7,787

• Wheaton, IL•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.41 out of 5  22 reviews

Senior: I've grown up my whole life in CUSD200. Throughout the course of my academic career, I've encountered countless thoughtful and dedicated teachers that have made me more and more excited to learn. CUSD200 is a very close-knit and warm community that I am proud to be a part of. If I could change anything, it would be more mental health resources available to youth as society continues to change. Especially in middle school, I feel it is more important than ever to come alongside each and every student to brighten their future. My roots will always come back to CUSD200 and I am grateful for my time here.... Read 22 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 20

• Students 11,709

• Grayslake, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.38 out of 5  32 reviews

Senior: I enjoyed that Grayslake Central focused on student life as well as the involvement of students. Any student can create a club or join any club they wish, as we are offered 70 plus clubs to join. Our sports could improve in how they fund certain sports more than others, but all of the students put in the work to their desired sport. One improvement I would make is to change college preparation because I feel it truly should start as soon as high school does. Our introduction to college applications was a month into senior year and too late to get a good headstart on the opportunities and qualities to improve our applications.... Read 32 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 2,680

• New Lenox, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.17 out of 5  134 reviews

Senior: What I like about Lincoln-Way is the amount of attention given to students. All of the teachers and staff work very hard to help students succeed through their next chapter in life in college. My counselor has helped me with applying, early credit opportunities, and my mindset in general. Our sports teams our very committed and passionate about what it takes to run a team and thrive through games win or lose. Our group of students are very passionate about our academics and career opportunities through the variety of electives and classes that are offered here. I can truly say I am thankful for what I have been able to accomplish through Lincoln-Way and believe it will shape my future in college and my career.... Read 134 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 3

• Students 6,665

• Park Ridge, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.06 out of 5  69 reviews

Senior: As a student who had come from a small private school to a large public one such as Maine East, I felt welcomed and accepted within the community. I made sure to join after-school interests like theatre and joined sports teams such as Diving. Making friends was easy, and the teachers are nothing but supportive. Pursuing my passion for the arts was greatly supported by amazing teachers that encouraged creativity and experimentation. I am thankful that 8th grade me had chosen to attend Maine East for all the experience and opportunities this school has given me.... Read 69 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 4

• Students 6,335

• Glen Ellyn, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.1 out of 5  42 reviews

Alum: During my years at Glenbard Township High School District No. 87, I embraced a dynamic experience. I engaged in the golf team and baseball program, honing skills in precision, teamwork, and discipline. These sports enriched my athletic abilities, forged friendships, and taught resilience. The Advanced Placement (AP) courses offered a challenging academic avenue. The rigorous curriculum expanded my horizons and prepared me for higher education. These courses fueled my curiosity and equipped me with skills indispensable in my pursuits. Central to my experience were the dedicated teachers. Their commitment to fostering an enriching atmosphere left an impression. Their expertise and genuine interest in students' success propelled me forward. Their guidance extended beyond the classroom, instilling a love for learning. In sum, Glenbard Township High School District No. 87 offered a platform for growth.... Read 42 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 4

• Students 7,914

• Downers Grove, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.23 out of 5  165 reviews

Senior: What I've thoroughly enjoyed about my time at Downers Grove South (D99) are the connections I've made with students and teacher within the school community. I truly believe that there is a place for everyone at South and North and that everyone can find something to not only get involved in but also to help themselves and their community flourish. I've gotten a wonderful education from South and have met so many amazing people that challenge me to become a more mature, more focused, and more confident student. Specifically, I've loved the activities and unique opportunities at South, starting with its Choir and Speech programs which are second to none, as well as the abundance of other activities offered at the school. Downers South is one of one, not because it's perfect, but because it has an identity all it own that changes all who enter the space better and stronger and wiser.... Read 165 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 4,887

• Elmhurst, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.1 out of 5  30 reviews

Alum: I have been in the district from kindergarten to senior year of high school. Even though Elmhurst College is not a part of District 205, I attend the college in the area (soon to be university on June 2020. I've had great experience all though-out the twelve years and I made so many wonderful memories that I look back to. The teachers are helpful and caring in this district! I have always felt safe here because it is such a welcoming community.... Read 30 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 13

• Students 8,289

• Saint Charles, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.38 out of 5  88 reviews

Senior: I have had a positive, enriching learning experience going to D303 Schools. I felt like teachers and school staff cared about me in all three levels of D303 education. They were very supportive of me once I started discovering who I was, and the teachers that I have had all wanted to see me grow and succeed. The course offerings are plentiful here, they offer a lot of AP courses at the high schools for students that are on that track, along with meaningful elective courses that students would at least get a few good things out of. In addition, there are a lot of student clubs to join at the middle and high school levels, there is something for everyone. It is easy to be involved in multiple clubs and maintain a challenging course load, because of the hard working attitudes of the students that D303 helps foster.... Read 88 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 18

• Students 11,958

• Munster, IN•

• School District

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  Rating 4.04 out of 5  28 reviews

Senior: Honestly I appreciate the staff's continuing effort to make student life better. However, the students sometimes really suck and teachers don't really do anything about it. Though, I do recognize that it is the individual's fault and not that of the administration or institution. I believe the quality of education here is really great and it has helped to set me up for success better than the school I was attending previously would have.... Read 28 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 5

• Students 4,148

• Lake Villa, IL•

• School District

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  Rating 4.14 out of 5  22 reviews

Senior: The three years I have been at Lakes, it has been the best time ever. Lakes makes you feel wanted and loved. I am super sad to be graduating soon. I hope you have the best experience!... Read 22 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 3

• Students 2,646