Parents in Cook County are considering private school options that offer individualized instruction, low student-to-teacher ratios, and globally-focused programs designed to help children excel in today’s demanding academic environment.
To help families make informed choices, this list highlighting the best private schools in Cook County, uses a combination of publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Census Bureau, along with community reviews, survey feedback, and academic performance indicators such as test scores and college readiness.
Read on for our guide to the top private schools in Cook County.
Read more: Best Private Schools in Chicagoland
Featured private schools in Cook County
In this section, Chicago Parent’s advertising partners share their top school offerings.
Bennett Day School
- Address: 955 W. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60642
- Phone: 312-236-6388
- Grades served: Preschool (starting at 2 years old)-12
- Number of students: 375
- Type: Private School
At Bennett Day School, students experience joyful, purpose-driven learning in an inclusive and nurturing environment. The school places student engagement and well-being at the center of its mission, fostering a culture where learners are excited to explore, create and grow every day.
Through its Project-Based Learning model, Bennett empowers students to tackle real-world problems with curiosity and collaboration. Cross-disciplinary projects and student-led inquiry help cultivate adaptable, socially conscious thinkers with the resilience and mindset to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
Moving beyond traditional grading, Bennett uses a competency-based approach that emphasizes personalized feedback and one-on-one mentorship. Each student’s growth is tracked through their individual strengths and opportunities, ensuring a rigorous and meaningful academic journey. As a result, Bennett graduates are confident, capable learners who go on to succeed at top colleges and universities across the globe.
British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park
- Address: 814 & 821 W. Eastman St., Chicago
- Phone: 773-506-2097
- Grades served: Pre-Nursery-Grade 5
- Number of students: 667
- Type: Private School, STEM-Focused School, Arts-Focused School, International Baccalaureate (IB) School
British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park is a unique private international school for students ages 15 months – 11 years old. They are part of a global network of schools and offer one-of-a-kind experiences through our international curriculum and collaborations with Juilliard, MIT and UNICEF.
British International School of Chicago’s teachers and specialists create a personalized learning experience for your child by adapting the curriculum to their needs. This supports their development along the way, building their confidence. Academic rigor as well as character development are core aspects of their student’s experience at BISC-LP.
British International School of Chicago, South Loop
- Address: 161 W. 9th St., Chicago
- Phone: 773-998-2472
- Grades served: Nursery-Year 13
- Number of students: 715
- Type: Private School, STEM-Focused School, Arts-Focused School, International Baccalaureate (IB) School, Gifted/Talented Program School
The British International School of Chicago, South Loop places personalized learning at the core of its educational philosophy. Educators work to understand how each student learns best and what inspires them, ensuring a tailored and enriching experience from start to finish. Serving students ages 3 to 18, the school offers a dynamic campus with age-appropriate learning environments—from early childhood classrooms to cutting-edge design labs, science facilities, art studios and athletic fields.
The school’s Early Years and Primary programs build a strong academic and social foundation through a blend of the National Curriculum for England and the International Primary Curriculum. Even the youngest students engage in specialist subjects such as STEAM, world languages, performing arts, and athletics. As students enter Middle School, they are encouraged to develop independence and explore new interests, supported by a wide range of extracurriculars including Model UN, sports and leadership clubs.
In the upper grades, the school is recognized as one of Chicago’s top IGCSE and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. As a member of Nord Anglia Education, students benefit from exclusive collaborations with institutions like Juilliard and MIT, as well as opportunities to participate in global competitions and cultural exchanges. This forward-thinking approach prepares graduates for success at top universities and beyond.
Catherine Cook School
- Address: 226 W. Schiller St., Chicago
- Phone: 312-266-3381
- Grades served: Preschool (Age 3)-Grade 8
- Number of students: 425
- Type: Private School
Catherine Cook School is a vibrant learning community serving students from age 3 through 8th grade. The school’s whole-child approach ensures that every student is academically challenged and fulfilled, develops an innovator’s mindset, builds a strong sense of wellness and belonging, and feels empowered as both a learner and a leader. Most importantly, students have fun while developing a lifelong love of learning.
The exceptional faculty at Catherine Cook use evidence-based practices, innovative curriculum design, nurturing guidance, and a growth mindset to engage students and help them reach their full potential.
Graduates of Catherine Cook School are confident in their abilities and go on to attend top high schools in Chicago and across the country. From selective enrollment public schools to prestigious independent and boarding schools, the dedicated High School Placement Director supports families in finding the best fit for each student’s strengths, challenges and aspirations.
Center for Talent Development at Northwestern University
- Address: 617 Dartmouth Place, Evanston
- Phone: 847-467-1575
- Grades served: PreK-Grade 12
- Number of students: 6,000+
- Type: Private School, Virtual School, STEM-Focused School, Gifted/Talented Program School
At Northwestern University’s Center for Talent Development (CTD), we know how important it is to keep curious young minds engaged. CTD programs for PreK through grade 12 offer hands-on, enriching learning experiences—in person on our Evanston campus and online from the comfort of home. Whether your child loves science, storytelling, technology, or coding, CTD has a course that will spark their imagination and build confidence.
Taught by expert educators, our classes encourage critical thinking, creativity and collaboration with like-minded peers. Parents love the balance of academic challenge and joyful discovery—and kids love making new friends while exploring what excites them most.
Chicago Jewish Day School
- Address: 3730 N. California Ave., Chicago
- Phone: 773-271-2700
- Grades served: Junior Kindergarten-Grade 8
- Number of students: 235
- Type: Private School
Chicago Jewish Day School is a diverse and nurturing community where students are actively engaged in learning through a Jewish lens. The school emphasizes whole-child education by integrating academic subjects with experiential learning and a strong focus on social-emotional development. This approach fosters a lasting love of learning and helps students thrive both intellectually and personally.
From Junior Kindergarten through Grade 8, students benefit from a thoughtfully designed curriculum that blends General and Judaic Studies in an active, multidisciplinary environment. Guided by nationally recognized educators, children develop critical thinking skills, self-awareness as learners, and a deep sense of curiosity through collaborative, real-world learning experiences.
The school’s mission is to prepare students to become thoughtful, compassionate leaders rooted in Jewish values. Graduates are equipped to engage in complex conversations, support meaningful causes, and contribute to both local and global communities—all while maintaining a deep and enduring connection to Jewish heritage and Israel.
Chicago Waldorf School
- Address: 5200 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago
- Phone: 773-465-2662
- Grades served: PreK-12
- Number of students: 345
- Type: Private School, STEM-Focused School, Arts-Focused School
For fifty years, the Chicago Waldorf School, serving students Pre-K–12th grade, has cultivated life-long learners by imbuing education with playful exploration and joyful passion, nurturing each student’s individuality, and providing a holistic alternative to contemporary education.
Located in the heart of the Andersonville neighborhood, the school offers a vibrant and diverse learning environment. In contrast to test-heavy, track-based education models, CWS provides a balance of experiential learning, academic rigor, and integrated arts.
Students at the Chicago Waldorf School also deepen their understanding of the world both inside and outside the classroom through our service-learning trips, hands-on experiential projects, and transformative global exchange programs. By encouraging young people to meet the world on their own terms, CWS empowers them to contribute their unique perspectives to an ever-growing global community.
Christian Heritage Academy
- Address: 315 Waukegan Road, Northfield
- Phone: 847-446-5252
- Grades served: Preschool-Grade 12
- Number of students: 414
- Type: Private School, Religious School
Christian Heritage Academy offers more than just academics; the cultivate deep roots in their students, preparing them to flourish in all aspects of life—now and in the future. From preschool through high school, Christian Heritage Academy’s vibrant community provides fertile ground for growth through excellent academics, leadership opportunities, quality athletics, dynamic performing arts, mentoring, local and international service learning trips, diverse clubs and an engaging student life.
You’ll witness remarkable development in your child’s life at every grade level, leading to a wealth of opportunities upon graduation. It’s the result of Christian Heritage Academy students being rooted in a deep love for God, known within their community, engaged in excellent academics, and inspired to make a difference.
Established in 1984, Christian Heritage Academy’s distinctive and welcoming culture, shaped by our shared mission, unites families from across Chicagoland’s diverse landscape. Positive parent-school partnership is part of our DNA. Experience the unique spirit of their school family first hand by visiting their campus soon!
Council Oak Montessori School
- Address: 2521 Grove Street, Blue Island
- Phone: 708-926-9720
- Grades served: Ages 3-Middle School
- Number of students: 60
- Type: Private School, Montessori School
Council Oak Montessori School’s thriving outdoor environment showcases the transformative power of connecting with nature. Through planting native vegetation with students, fostering bird habitats, and engaging in hands-on outdoor activities, the Montessori school—located along the historic Cal-Sag Channel in Blue Island, Illinois—creates an environment where children can understand and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.
In addition to its PreK–8 advanced academic Montessori program, Council Oak offers a diverse selection of immersive experiences centered around music, Capoeira, and nature. These thoughtfully designed programs empower children to grow with confidence and curiosity.
Lycée Français de Chicago
- Address: 1929 W. Wilson Ave., Chicago
- Phone: 773-665-0066
- Grades served: Pre-K to Grade 12
- Number of students: 750
- Type: Private School, International Baccalaureate (IB) School
Journey the world with Chicago’s French International School. At Lycée Français de Chicago (LFC), they believe a good education is the beginning of a successful lifelong journey. LFC’s focus on academic excellence and language immersion empowers students to break down the barriers ahead of them. Their inclusive, pluricultural community not only introduces our students to what this world has to offer, but also enables them to be an active part of it.
Driven by their core values of respect, responsibility and the joy of learning, the unique LFC approach prepares all students, from pre-K through 12th grade, in French Baccalaureate and International Baccalaureate tracks, to thrive around the world with confidence. This is the beginning of the journey to a successful life. And it’s LFC’s mission to make sure it’s a good one.
No background in French is required for most grades, but interest in an international experience is a must!
Metropolitan Schoolhouse
- Address: 2464 N. Clybourn Ave., Chicago
- Phone: 224-255-5148
- Grades served: K-12
- Number of students: 27
- Type: Private School, Therapeutic/Alternative School
Metropolitan Schoolhouse empowers diverse learners to succeed in the classroom and beyond. Their whole-child, individualized curriculum provides the academic rigor the students deserve and the social-emotional support they need.
Traditional learning environments have not evolved to support the growing number of today’s students who learn differently – until Metro.
Music Institute of Chicago
- Address: Fourth Presbyterian Church – Gratz Center, 126 E. Chestnut St., Chicago; St. James Cathedral, 65 E. Huron St., Chicago; Faith United Methodist Church, 432 59th Street, Downers Grove, Music Institute of Chicago, 1490 Chicago Avenue, Evanston; Grace United Methodist Church, 244 E. Center Ave., Lake Bluff; Music Institute of Chicago, 40 E. Old Mill Road, Lake Forest; Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 802 E. Geneva Road, Wheaton; Music Institute of Chicago, 300 Green Bay Road, Winnetka
- Phone: 847-905-1500
- Grades served: Preschool-12 and adults
- Number of students: More than 1,500 annually
- Type: Private School, Arts-Focused School
The Music Institute of Chicago (MIC) is one of the nation’s leading community music schools, dedicated to nurturing music makers of all ages and skill levels. MIC’s mission is to build a lifelong love of music by teaching essential listening, creative and expressive skills. Through a personalized teacher placement process and high-quality programs, students benefit from a supportive environment that fosters musical growth, cognitive development, and cultural enrichment.
MIC offers private music lessons across all instruments, styles, and experience levels, along with a vibrant community of fellow students, families, and concertgoers. The school is home to one of the Midwest’s most comprehensive Suzuki programs, following the philosophy that every child can learn and thrive musically. Suzuki instruction is available for piano, violin, viola, cello, bass, flute, guitar, harp and recorder.
For the youngest learners, MIC offers Musikgarten® classes for children from birth to age seven. These early childhood music and movement programs are designed to support cognitive, emotional and physical development—while sparking joy through shared musical experiences.
The Gardner School
- Address: Naperville (630-657-5029), 28W611 Ferry Road, Warrenville; Naperville North (630-983-9190), 1128 Compass Court, Naperville; Naperville South (630-848-1122), 3040 Reflection Drive, Naperville; Warrenville (630-791-9525), 27W457 Warrenville Road, Warrenville; Bucktown (773-661-0151), 1612 W. North Ave., Chicago
Lincoln Park (773-661-0232), 2850 N. Lincoln Ave, Chicago; Lincolnshire (847-415-5420), 250 Barclay Blvd, Lincolnshire; North Center (773-920-2485), 3819 N. Western Ave., Chicago; Northbrook (847-770-6260), 2380 Waterview Drive, Northbrook; Oakbrook Terrace (630-576-4740), 17W642 E. Butterfield Road, Oakbrook Terrace; Ravenswood (773-948-7543), 1525 W. Wilson Ave., Chicago; River North (312-546-3183), 500 W. Superior, Chicago; Schaumburg (847-592-2513), 1285 E. Woodfield Road, Schaumburg; West Loop (312-229-4299), 1301 W. Madison St, Chicago; Yorktown Center (630-519-6760), 98 Yorktown, Lombard - Grades served: 6 weeks to 5 years old (Naperville South and Warrenville locations serve 6 weeks to 12 years old)
- Type: Private School, Language Immersion School, STEM-Focused School, Arts-Focused School
The Gardner School offers a thoughtfully designed learning environment that supports each child’s physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development. With a strong emphasis on building self-esteem during key developmental stages, the school nurtures each student at their own pace, laying a solid educational foundation for future success. Headquartered in Franklin, Tennessee, The Gardner School is a privately owned organization, which allows for consistent leadership and a unified educational philosophy across all campuses.
Blending traditional and Montessori-inspired teaching methods, the school’s curriculum includes a balance of structured play, child-led exploration, and academic lessons. This dynamic approach encourages curiosity, creativity, and independence in a nurturing, supportive environment. By fostering a culture of acceptance and discovery, The Gardner School cultivates not only academic readiness but also a lifelong love of learning in every child.
Wander through Wonder Academy
- Address: Coming soon in Lincoln Park, Chicago
- Phone: 312-505-3075
- Grades served: 6-8
- Number of students: Maximum of 28
- Type: Private School, STEM-Focused School, Arts-Focused School
This innovative educational program combines STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) with a strong emphasis on global citizenship and social-emotional learning. Grounded in the belief that interdisciplinary learning cultivates well-rounded, forward-thinking individuals, the school equips students with the critical thinking, creativity and collaboration skills needed to navigate an interconnected world and address complex global challenges.
Through partnerships with local organizations and immersive fieldwork, students gain a deeper understanding of their own city while linking it to global contexts. The program culminates in an international trip—upcoming year is in Costa Rica—where students continue exploring STEAM concepts and global citizenship through experiential learning.
Best private schools in Cook County
1. British International School of Chicago, South Loop (A+)
- Address: 161 W. 9th St., Chicago
- Why it stands out: This private school is part of the Nord Anglia education system, a world-renowned approach to learning. The British International School of Chicago located in South Loop is regarded as an elite school preparing learners to become successful global citizens.
The British International School of Chicago located in South Loop offers a rigorous approach to academics.
The private school serves grades PreK-12, and provides a comprehensive education plan throughout a student’s time at the school. Students are prepared to enter into the International Baccalaureate (IB) system in their last two years of high school following extensive teaching in core subjects like English, mathematics and history.
Extracurriculars and clubs are a large part of student life. Students can choose from many elective options like a dance program designed by Juilliard or an engineering and design course.
2. Roycemore School (A+)
- Address: 1200 Davis St., Evanston
- Why it stands out: With gifted programs, stellar extracurriculars and a college prep environment, parents can be sure their students are prepared for the future.
Roycemore School offers a holistic approach to education which centers students. The private school is committed to providing a deeply personal education for each learner.
One of the school’s signatures is the potential for a student to complete in-depth passion projects over the course of their learning. These projects allow students to go deeper into areas that truly interest them.
Preparing students for their future by providing them with opportunities to build self confidence and community is Roycemore’s promise.
3. North Shore Country Day (A+)
- Address: 310 Green Bay Road, Winnetka
- Why it stands out: A challenging, liberal arts based educational system is what students can expect at North Shore Country Day. The private school focuses on individual student interest and success.
North Shore Country Day was formed during the Country Day School movement. The co-ed PreK-12 private school seeks to create model citizens who embody the school’s motto “live and serve.”
High school education looks different at this private school–students are encouraged to design a class based on their own special interests. There are also no honors courses, since each course is already taught at the highest level, which would often be considered honors level at other schools.
Students of North Shore Country Day can expect to receive a rigorous education that allows exploration into their individual interests.
4. Francis W. Parker School (A+)
- Address: 330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago
- Why it stands out: This progressive private school located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood is known for its commitment to community and citizenship.
This co-ed, PreK-12 private school is founded on the principle that “the needs of society should determine the work of the school.”
That guiding principle is still in place today, with courses focused on modern day learning. Students are prepared to enter society as thoughtful, capable and ethical citizens.
Francis W. Parker School is located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood. The school is undergoing campus expansion and improvements intended to enhance student learning.
5. Lycée Français de Chicago (A+)
- Address: 1929 W. Wilson Ave., Chicago
- Why it stands out: An emphasis on global mindedness and fluency in multiple languages is a standout aspect of the Lycée Français de Chicago school. Students graduate as globally-minded citizens prepared to participate in a global economy.
Lycée Français de Chicago is known for its commitment to creating globally minded graduates. The school is a French immersion environment, with students leaving upon graduation fluent in (at least) a second language.
Language is taught in a unique system. Students are immersed in both French and English from the beginning of their primary education, followed by a choice to include more language as they mature. By the end of a student’s education, she may be fluent in four languages.
To further the global education of its students, the school offers the International Baccalaureate and French Baccalaureate track. Both systems are rigorous academic programs with an emphasis on ethics, philosophy and global mindedness.
6. Latin School of Chicago (A+)
- Address: 59 W. North Blvd., Chicago
- Why it stands out: The Latin School of Chicago offers a highly individualized education course with AP options at the higher levels. Students are encouraged to become well-rounded citizens through an emphasis on extracurriculars.
A holistic approach to education is the hallmark of a Latin School education.
Students of this PreK-12 co-ed private school receive an education centered on whole-child learning. Students begin receiving homework in the fourth grade, and are not assessed via letter grades while in the lower school. Kids can begin after-school sports starting in the third grade.
At the high school level, students have one 90-minute class block and five 50-minute class blocks on an eight-day rotation. Each student’s schedule is highly individualized.
7. The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools (A+)
- Address: 1362 E. 59th St., Chicago
- Why it stands out: Housed on the University of Chicago campus, this private school is known for its progressive approach to education coupled with a close tie to the university.
The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools was founded more than 125 years ago with a guiding philosophy of a progressive education. The school campus is located at the University of Chicago, allowing close collaboration between the esteemed university and Lab.
Lab creates civic-minded students engaged with the world. Students are encouraged to inquire and experiment throughout their education, from the nursery to graduation.
The school is committed to creating a sense of belonging for all students. Students have the choice to engage with their peers in extracurriculars like debate club, fencing and swimming.
8. Beacon Academy (A+)
- Address: 1574 Sherman Ave., Evanston
- Why it stands out: A college prep environment paired with a strong sense of community sets Beacon Academy apart. This private school is known for its high level of academics and close-knit student body.
Based on Montessori principles, Beacon Academy celebrates the whole-child while challenging students to rise to their potential. The private school serves students in grades 9-12 from across the Chicago area.
In the higher levels, students are offered the International Baccalaureate (IB) courses and may also follow the Experiential Learning (XP) track, a program unique to the academy. XP is a two-year social science and English program that brings real-world learning into the classroom. Many XP students also choose to take IB classes as well.
9. St. Ignatius College Prep (A+)
- Address: 1076 Roosevelt Road, Chicago
- Why it stands out: This Catholic co-ed private school offers a holistic approach to education. Students are encouraged to become part of the St. Ignatius community and leave with a larger sense of purpose.
Saint Ignatius College Prep is a Jesuit Catholic school serving boys and girls in grades 9-12. The private catholic school is located in the heart of Chicago and is committed to educating young people for “lives of faith, love, service and leadership.”
The school’s focus on academics includes many AP class offerings, courses on theology and more. Students may join competitive clubs like chess club, robotics or scholastic bowl as well as fine arts and service organizations. 75 percent of students participate in one or more of the 35 sports options.
At St. Ignatius, students are formed into well-rounded graduates with an emphasis on living a life of integrity.
10.Chicago Academy for the Arts (A+)
- Address: 1010 West Chicago Ave., Chicago
- Why it stands out: This standout high school arts academy is ranked among the best in the country for high school arts programs. Its graduates are often accepted into world renowned universities and conservatories.
The Chicago Academy for the Arts is an elite high school art academy offering extensive education in theater, dance, visual art, creative writing, music or film.
High schoolers at the Chicago Academy for the Arts are placed in professional-level arts training courses alongside classic academic subjects. AP and honors classes are also offered. Graduates are often admitted to some of the best universities and conservatories in the world, including CalArts and Juilliard.
Students are given many options to get involved, from concerts and plays to screenings and more.
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