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2022 Best Schools in Illinois

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5,686 results

  1. University of Chicago Laboratory Schools

    • Private School
    • CHICAGO, IL
    • PK, K-12
    • 129 reviews
    #1 Best Private High Schools in Illinois

    Sophomore: I was a student at lab since preschool, and I can say I thoroughly enjoyed it. The lower grades especially had something special about them. Elementary classes were based on projects and exploration, rather than rigid academics, which allowed me as a student to grow at my own pace. Middle school and high school were less special, but it remained a positive experience. Classes were challenging enough and there were a variety of more difficult options if we were advanced in a certain topic. One great thing about the upper grades are their clubs. Clubs and teams are open to anyone, no matter their skill. This allowed me to explore things I was interested in, without having the worry of tryouts or not being good enough. In my years at the school, I never experienced bullying, and rarely came across it with other students. That said my circle was a small and close-knit group, and that might not have been the experience of all.
    Read 129 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,051 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  2. Payton College Preparatory High School

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 9-12
    • 386 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 386 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,220 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  3. Lake Forest Academy

    • Private School
    • LAKE FOREST, IL
    • 9-12
    • 71 reviews
    #2 Best Private High Schools in Illinois

    Parent: Pretty good so far with good updates to parents and my son loves it there although he needs a bit of an adjustment due to different system from other country. Advisory, activities are great and opportunity to participate in clubs have also been tremendous.
    Read 71 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 435 Students
    • 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  4. Northside College Preparatory High School

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

    Senior: I am very lucky to attend Northside College Prep. Starting high school was a difficult transition- I had attended the same elementary school my entire life, so I had zero experience starting at a new school. However, I was lucky enough to find my niche. I joined the cross country team, and it was the best decision I could have made. I started the school year knowing people, which made the transition easier, and I found a hobby that I am passionate about. The best part about Northside is that it has a smaller community for everyone. I have found my place on the cross country and track teams; in the journalism class; and in the environmental club. There are places for everyone! From anime club, to the basketball team, to theater programs, Northside offers opportunities for everyone. Like any other school, Northside has its fair share of issues, but it provides countless opportunities for anything you might be interested in.
    Read 581 Reviews

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

    • Public School
    • AURORA, IL
    • 10-12
    • 325 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 325 Reviews

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

    • Adlai E. Stevenson High School District No. 125, IL
    • 9-12
    • 1,228 reviews
    #4 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Junior: Amazing, always caters to the students' future goals and ambitions. Classes for absolutely every interest and an awesomely decorated and qualified staff. I transferred here my Freshman year and it was the best decision my family and I have made. Although large in size and numbers, it's easy to fit in and find your tempo in this college-sized campus. Also, the coffee shops and cafeteria food adds this ambiance of adulthood and your student will learn the concepts of being independent just in time for university. The different departments are all staffed by the best in their fields and I truly felt like I was being educated much more thoroughly than at my previous school because of the abilities of the teachers. All productions, whether musical or athletic, are astronomically funded and pleasant to attend. Clubs, bands, classes, and more give a variety of choices to every student, making it simple to find comfort among those with your same interests. Go Pats!
    Read 1,228 Reviews

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

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 7-12
    • 1,119 reviews
    #5 Best Public High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: I love this school! I feel like there is a place for everyone, whether you are interested in sports, art, theater, or academic competitions. One of our flaws is that even though we have all of these programs, the basketball and football team are shown a lot of favoritism. This is something that has been improved in the time that I have attended Whitney Young, but it is still noticeable. The teachers and staff are mostly amazing! My teachers junior year especially were extremely supportive and easy to talk to. It made the stress of standardized testing and maintaining grades much easier to bear. If I was able to choose where my sister went to high school, I would bring her to Whitney Young without hesitation.
    Read 1,119 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,198 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  10. Latin School of Chicago

    • Private School
    • CHICAGO, IL
    • PK, K-12
    • 111 reviews
    #3 Best Private High Schools in Illinois

    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 111 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,155 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  11. North Shore Country Day

    • Private School
    • WINNETKA, IL
    • PK, K-12
    • 68 reviews
    #4 Best Private High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: North Shore is by no doubt an amazing school. While it is small and a bit sheltered, the school culture promotes independence and hard work in their students through rigorous courses and workloads. The school also requires its students to participate in the performing arts and athletics, which allows many students to be forced to develop their leadership skills and personality. MANY of the teachers are of high quality, compassionate, and care about developing relationships with their students. The humanities department is significantly more developed and better than that of STEM. STEM classes only prove to be worth it if it is an AP or required course. I wish North Shore would do better at is encouraging their students to take higher-level courses. The administration will usually discourage their students from taking AP classes based on their previous courses, and make it seem like the students aren't capable of taking all AP classes if they want to, nor do they even allow them to.
    Read 68 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 525 Students
    • 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  12. British International School of Chicago, South Loop

    • Private School
    • CHICAGO, IL
    • PK, K-12
    • 43 reviews
    #5 Best Private High Schools in Illinois

    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 43 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 604 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  13. Jones College Prep High School

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

    Senior: Jones is a very good high school. It's academically challenging while still providing necessary arts. It has great opportunities for enhancing learning! It's centered in downtown Chicago so the scenery, as well as the surrounding places, is nice. Though not everything is as great as it seems, it's still a great school overall. The teachers are very supportive and you get to meet people from all over Chicago!
    Read 695 Reviews

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

    • Glenbrook High Schools District 225, IL
    • 9-12
    • 433 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 433 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,040 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  15. Roycemore School

    • Private School
    • EVANSTON, IL
    • PK, K-12
    • 148 reviews
    #6 Best Private High Schools in Illinois

    Parent: We could not be happier with our son's high school experience. His teachers were all very strong, personable and with the small class sizes were able to taylor teaching to the student. The head of school did an absolutely outstanding job opening school and keeping it open during the pandemic. She created detailed and safe reopening plans that became the best practice for other schools. Throughout the difficult year she remained focused, dedicated, creative and humble. The head of upper school has a vibrant personality and is absolutely loved by the upper school class. She is approachable and motivates the kids to be kind, work hard and be their best. I would recommend Roycemore in a heartbeat! Lastly, Roycemore is a tight knit community and the various events hold a special place in our hearts.
    Read 148 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 230 Students
    • 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  16. Hinsdale Central High School

    • Hinsdale Township High School District No. 86, IL
    • 9-12
    • 366 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 366 Reviews

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

    • New Trier Township High School District No. 203, IL
    • 10-12
    • 546 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 546 Reviews

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

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

    Alum: My experience at Glenbrook South High School was extremely memorable and meaningful for these past four years! I made a few close-knit friends and became interested in both academics and extra-curricular, especially with clubs. Most of my teachers were invested and interested in the classes they taught and their students as well. Thank you, GBS for a great time.
    Read 516 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,123 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  19. Francis W. Parker School

    • Private School
    • CHICAGO, IL
    • PK, K-12
    • 58 reviews
    #7 Best Private High Schools in Illinois

    Senior: I have had an awesome experience at Francis W Parker. Teachers at Parker are creative (and free to make their own curricula because of Parker's progressive philosophy) and teach students mind-blowing ideas, along with critical thinking skills.
    However, the unavoidable smallness of each class makes some students too comfortable with one another - everyone knows everything about everyone. Additionally, many reputations stick from middle school.
    Yet the education, especially in history and English classes, is great. Parker has, however, been trying to improve their STEM classes - they finally introduced higher-level math courses into middle school curricula, and now high schoolers must take computer programming/coding for at least one year.
    Recently, because the administration in the high school has been changing for around 5 years now, some students feel that they have less influence in school processes than they used to.
    Overall, though, definitely come to Parker!
    Read 58 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 935 Students
    • 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  22. Beacon Academy

    • Private School
    • EVANSTON, IL
    • 9-12
    • 23 reviews
    #8 Best Private High Schools in Illinois

    Parent: In our third year at Beacon, we couldn't be happier with the balance of real academic, intellectual curiosity and a supportive environment for students. Gone are the days of "skill and drill" and being lectured AT! The first two years at Beacon lay a solid foundation for learning, i.e., reading literature with an emphasis on writing style and interpretation of texts in contemporary and modern settings. These critical years of deep learning in a Montessori setting of dialogue and engagement allowed our child to enter her IB curriculum confidently. Students have robust relationships with teachers. Interdisciplinary learning is fundamental to a Beacon education. Learning to deconstruct text in literature naturally lends itself to knowing how to tackle science experiments, i.e., starting with questions/hypotheses, then moving into discovery of new data/facts. A Beacon education is true college prep; students are prepared for the demands of college and embrace opportunities.
    Read 23 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 213 Students
    • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  23. Vernon Hills High School

    • Community High School District 128, IL
    • 9-12
    • 358 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 358 Reviews

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

    • Indian Prairie Community Unit School District No. 204, IL
    • 9-12
    • 1,095 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 1,095 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,477 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  25. 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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  26. William Fremd High School

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

    Senior: FREMD is an amazing High School in Palatine, IL. All students are very driven and encourage each other academically. We have variety of sports, after school activities, plenty of ways to get not only involved in volunteering activities but also enjoy different interests via after school clubs and organizations. The teachers are high class educators who care about their students and their success. Safety is always a priority at FREMD!
    Read 604 Reviews

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

    • Public School
    • URBANA, IL
    • 7-12
    • 168 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 168 Reviews

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

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 7-12
    • 3,108 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 3,108 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 4,500 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  29. Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart

    • Private School
    • LAKE FOREST, IL
    • 9-12
    • 63 reviews
    #9 Best Private High Schools in Illinois

    Parent: I am not going to sugar coat this. I was skeptical of Woodlands at first. It is small, tucked away in Lake Forest, and single gender. Maybe this was an environment that was too protected, sheltered, and "hand holding" for a young woman in high school? And while it is small, the experience has been anything but "too reserved or safe".

    The school is diverse and composed of students from the City, the burbs, and international locations that span the socio-economic spectrum.

    The academics are great and exceed expectation. If a student seeks challenge, the answer is always yes! If a student tries to back away from their potential, a teacher is on it. Students appreciate that WA will not let potential go unfulfilled.

    Girls learn to advocate & take pride in their accomplishments. Upon graduation they leave WA self-sufficient & confident women. They are ready to define their unique place in society.

    Despite school size, college placement is amazing! Deserves all the accolades!
    Read 63 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 131 Students
    • 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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    Spencerville Adventist Academy

    • Private School
    • SPENCERVILLE, MD
    • PK, K-12
    • 58 reviews

    Senior: SAA is a great school that provides a great christian education. The school is very diverse, which is great. And provides Pre-K through 12 grade! I highly recommend SAA!
    Read 58 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 361 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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    Rise Hybrid Private Academy

    • Online School
    • FREDERICKSBURG, VA
    • PK, K-12
    • 10 reviews

    Alum: As a former student of Rise Hybrid Private Academy, I highly recommend to anyone debating to enroll! Not only did this Academy enable me to excel both in and out of the classroom, but the students/teacher became family. Students receive an unparalleled education while still having fun! I will forever cherish my memories of AP Biology dissection labs, the field trip to Washington DC, even one on one math (which wasn’t my strong suit🤣yet it is still a major memory, proving the impact of this school and teacher!), Secret Santa during the holidays, and many more. Through this Academy, I established a foundation in advanced education as well as life skills such as communication, time management/efficiency, and work ethic. I would not be the person I am today had I not enrolled in Rise Hybrid Private Academy!
    Read 10 Reviews

    • 20 Students
    • 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  36. Sponsored

    Burgundy Farm Country Day School

    • Private School
    • ALEXANDRIA, VA
    • PK, K-8
    • 10 reviews

    Parent: My husband and I wanted an inclusive school that would be an extension of our family, and we found that in the Burgundy Community. We made the decision to send my son to Burgundy in JK and looking back now as he is in the midst of 2nd grade, choosing Burgundy was the best decision. Burgundy is a nurturing community that fosters the whole child, ensuring life long learners. Burgundy leans into a child's individual character and ensures every child is heard and has a voice. My son loves Burgundy and is thriving. I know without a doubt that Burgundy will lay the foundation for my son's continued success, not only in his future academic pursuits, but in life as a whole!
    Read 10 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 286 Students
    • 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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