Best Chicagoland School Districts Every Parent Should Know About

Selecting the right school district is one of the most crucial decisions parents make regarding their child’s academic success. In Chicagoland, certain school districts consistently outperform others based on key factors that impact educational quality and outcomes.

To help families make informed choices, this list highlighting the best school districts in Chicagoland, 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.

Looking for more of the best school districts in Chicagoland? Check out these stories:

• Best School Districts in Cook County
• Best School Districts in DuPage County
• Best School Districts in Lake County

Best school districts in Chicagoland

This section features some of the best school districts in Chicagoland and are based on public data, academic performance, community reviews and survey feedback to help families find the right fit. Many of these schools have earned top marks, including A+, A and A– grades.

Adlai E. Stevenson High School District No. 125 

• Address: 1 Stevenson Dr., Lincolnshire
• Why it stands out: Often lauded for its rigorous academic programs and emphasis on student involvement, Stevenson High School District offers a plethora of extracurricular activities and exceptional college preparedness.

Established in 1965, the district has been a leader in educational innovation with its continuously updated curriculum to adapt to changing educational needs.

Glenbrook High School District 225 

• Address: 3801 W. Lake Ave., Glenview
• Why it stands out: Known for its outstanding athletics and arts programs, Glenbrook High School District 225 balances academics with a wide range of extracurricular activities, providing holistic development opportunities for its students.

Evanston Township High School District No. 202 

• Address: 1600 Dodge Ave., Evanston
• Why it stands out: Diversity is at the heart of Evanston Township, where students benefit from a multicultural environment alongside extensive academic and athletic options.

Founded in 1883, the district has a rich history and has played a significant role in shaping the town’s educational landscape.

Township High School District No. 113 

• Address: 1040 Park Ave. W, Highland Park
• Why it stands out: Focused on crafting an inclusive and challenging curriculum, the district excels in providing AP courses and individualized learning opportunities.

Hinsdale Township High School District No. 86 

• Address: 5500 S. Grant St., Hinsdale
• Why it stands out: Known for its exceptional academic outcomes and robust college admission rates, Hinsdale Township emphasizes both scholastic achievement and character development.

Community High School District 128

• Address: 50 N. Lakeview Pkwy, Vernon Hills
• Why it stands out: Community High School District 128 is noted for its commitment to student success, with a comprehensive counseling program and high graduation rates.

Township High School District No. 211 

• Address: 1750 S. Roselle Road, Palatine
• Why it stands out: The district prides itself on an extensive range of vocational and technical courses alongside traditional academic pathways, preparing students for both college and career paths.

Niles Township Community High School District No. 219

• Address: 7700 Gross Point Road, Skokie
• Why it stands out: A melting pot of cultures, Niles Township focuses on inclusivity and multilingual education, making it a standout for fostering global citizens.

With a foundation in the early 1900s, the district has always been at the forefront of providing equal education opportunities for all its students.

Barrington Community Unit School District No. 220 

• Address: 515 W. Main St., Barrington
• Why it stands out: This district is celebrated for its blend of tradition and innovation, offering a wide variety of clubs and specialized courses, including science and technology initiatives.

Indian Prairie Community Unit School District No. 204 

• Address: 780 Shoreline Drive, Aurora
• Why it stands out: Known for its strong community involvement and tailored learning strategies, Indian Prairie emphasizes partnerships between parents, educators, and the community to foster student achievement.

Naperville Community Unit School District 203 

• Address: 203 West Hillside Road, Naperville
• Why It Stands Out: The district is known for its academic excellence and strong community support. In the 2022–23 school year, 59.2% of students met or exceeded math standards, and the district consistently receives praise for school safety, athletics, and its vibrant community.

Established in 1972 through the merger of several smaller districts, District 203 has a long-standing reputation in Naperville. The oldest school still in use is Ellsworth Elementary (1928), and the newest is Ann Reid Early Childhood Center (2010).

Township High School District No. 214 

• Address: 2121 S. Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights
• Why it stands out: District 214 is illustrious for its Career Pathways program, which provides practical experiences in various industries, ensuring students graduate with marketable skills.

Operating since 1914, the district has transformed from a small suburban school system into a leader in career-focused education.

New Trier Township High School District No. 203 

• Address: 7 Happ Road, Northfield
• Why it stands out: New Trier is synonymous with excellence, offering a wide array of advanced placement courses and a nationally recognized performing arts program.

With roots dating back to 1901, the district has a century-long legacy of producing leaders and innovators.

Community High School District 155

• Address: 1 South Virginia Road, Crystal Lake

• Why it stands out: All four high schools in the district rank highly — top 14% nationally according to U.S. News & World Report (2024) and among the top 130 in Illinois.

D155 began with a single Union School in 1884, evolved into a separate high school by 1907, and was officially established as a district in December 1919. Crystal Lake Community High School opened at its current Central location in 1924. Subsequent expansions include Cary‑Grove in 1961, Crystal Lake South in 1978, Prairie Ridge in 1997, and the Haber Oaks alternative center in 2008.

Elmhurst School District No. 205

• Address: 162 S. York St., Elmhurst
• Why it stands out: Elmhurst 205 offers a balanced curriculum that emphasizes both academic achievement and extracurricular activities. The district prides itself on fostering creativity and critical thinking, with well-regarded music, arts, and athletics programs.

Serving Elmhurst and surrounding areas, District 205 was formed during a period of educational consolidation in the 1900s. It has since expanded its facilities and curriculum to meet evolving educational needs while maintaining a community-centric approach.

Grayslake Community High School District No. 127

• Address: 400 N. Lake St., Grayslake
• Why it stands out: Grayslake Community High School District 127 is renowned for its rigorous academic programs, exemplary extracurriculars, and a strong emphasis on community engagement. The district consistently ranks at the top for student performance, graduation rates and college readiness, earning it a prestigious A+ rating.

Established in 1946, District 127 has grown alongside the expanding community of Grayslake. Over the decades, it has invested significantly in state-of-the-art facilities and diverse programming to meet changing educational demands, fostering a tradition of excellence and innovation.

Lincoln‑Way Community High School District 210

• Address: 1801 E Lincoln Highway, New Lenox

• Why it stands out: The district boasts high academic rankings (top 10% in Illinois), strong AP and dual-credit programs, high graduation rates and robust extracurricular offerings. It also benefits from efficient per-pupil spending.

Founded in 1951, the district began with a single high school — opened in 1954 — and expanded via multiple bond-funded construction projects. In the early 2000s, it grew from two to four high schools (Central, East, North, West), though North was closed at the end of the 2015–16 school year.

Community Unit School District No. 200

• Address: 130 W. Park Ave., Wheaton
• Why it stands out: District 200 is celebrated for its comprehensive educational approach that includes honors and AP courses, robust extracurricular options and strong athletic teams. Emphasis on leadership development and community service enhances the student experience.

Originating from the consolidation of smaller districts in 1969, Wheaton’s District 200 has continuously upgraded its educational offerings to remain at the forefront of innovation, supported by active local involvement.

Glenbard Township High School District No. 87

• Address: 596 Crescent Blvd., Glen Ellyn
• Why it stands out: Glenbard 87 is distinguished by its four high schools, each with unique specialized programs and strong academic reputations. The district invests heavily in technology and career readiness, preparing students for college and the workforce.

Formed in 1916, Glenbard has nearly a century of dedication to secondary education. Its growth mirrored the suburban expansion around Chicago, with a commitment to high standards and diverse programming.

Community High School District No. 99

• Address: 6301 Springside Ave., Downers Grove
• Why it stands out: District 99 is known for its outstanding academic performance, award-winning arts programs, and competitive athletic teams. Focused on student wellness and inclusivity, it has embraced progressive educational practices.

District 99 was established to serve the growing Downers Grove community, quickly evolving into a model of suburban education through continuous curriculum development and community partnerships.

School Town of Munster

• Address: 8616 Columbia Ave., Munster, IN
• Why it stands out: The district’s schools are uniformly rated Blue Ribbon and four-star, and the high school has appeared on Newsweek’s “Top Schools” list multiple times.

Education in Munster began with subscription schools around 1852. Through the late 1800s and early 1900s, several school buildings arose, including the one-room schools and later the James F. Lanier School built in 1914. The district in its current form — School Town of Munster — was created in 1972 as part of a state-mandated consolidation.

Consolidated High School District No. 230 

• Address: 15100 S. 94th Ave., Orland Park
• Why it stands out: Known for its collaboration with local businesses and its focus on personalized learning, District 230 prepares students exceptionally well for post-secondary success.

Since opening, the district has expanded and refined its offerings to meet the needs of a diverse suburban population.

Maine Township High School District No. 207 

• Address: 1177 S. Dee Road, Park Ridge
• Why it stands out: Maine Township’s dedication to student mental health and well-being, alongside a comprehensive academic curriculum, sets it apart as a nurturing environment for holistic development.

Established in 1902, Maine 207 has led initiatives focused on emotional and academic support systems, benefiting students immensely.

St. Charles Community Unit School District 303

• Address: 201 S. 7th St., St. Charles

• Why it stands out: District 303 has deep historical roots and a reputation for academic excellence, collaboration with civic partners, and growth. It serves around 12,000 PreK–12 students across 57 square miles near Chicago and consistently delivers strong programs and facilities.

The first brick public schools in Illinois — West and East Side Schools — date to the 1850s in St. Charles. In 1926, thanks to Charles H. Haines, a new high school was built. The modern consolidated district (Unit District 303) formed in 1949, merging older elementary and high school districts; in 1950, the Wasco district also merged in.

Community Unit School District No. 201

• Address: 133 S. Grant St., Westmont
• Why it stands out: District 201 emphasizes personalized learning, with strong special education services and advanced coursework options. The district’s small size fosters a tight-knit community atmosphere and attentive student support.

Serving Westmont and neighboring regions, District 201 has maintained a reputation for balancing academic rigor with a nurturing environment.

Lake Zurich Community Unit School District No. 95

• Address: 832 S Rand Road, Lake Zurich
• Why it stands out: Lake Zurich CUSD 95 boasts a strong academic curriculum coupled with cutting-edge technology integration. The district prioritizes small class sizes and personalized learning, reflected in its A rating. Their commitment to athletics, arts, and STEM education also contributes to the district’s balanced approach.

With roots dating back to the early 1900s, this district has evolved from small rural beginnings to a comprehensive modern educational system. Emphasizing community collaboration, District 95 has adapted through continuous improvements in infrastructure and teaching methods.

Community High School District No. 117

• Address: 1625 Deep Lake Road, Lake Villa
• Why it stands out: District 117 boasts academically rigorous programs with a strong focus on student development and career readiness. Their A+ rating comes from high test scores, innovative curriculum, and an active community partnership aimed at supporting diverse student needs.

Originally established to serve rural communities, District 117 has expanded and modernized to accommodate population growth and educational trends. Its long-standing commitment to excellence has made it a pillar in the Lake Villa area.

Huntley Community School District No 158

• Address: 650 Dr. John Burkey Dr., Algonquin

• Why It Stands Out: The district is nationally recognized for its innovative campus-based structure, award-winning blended learning program at Huntley High School, dual-language offerings, and efficient per-student spending.

Originally a small rural district, Huntley 158 expanded rapidly in the late 1990s–2000s due to area growth, rebuilding its entire infrastructure into a 3-campus model; it has since led in digital learning (starting in 2011) and competency-based education through the state’s Vanguard Vision initiative.

Lisle Community Unit School District No. 202

• Address: 5211 Center Ave., Lisle
• Why it stands out: Lisle 202’s highlights include innovative use of technology in classrooms and a focus on environmental education. The district is praised for its close community ties and comprehensive early childhood programs.

District 202 evolved from its roots as a small township district and expanded alongside Lisle’s growth, continually updating its facilities and curricula to serve a diverse student population.

Valparaiso Community Schools

• Address: 3801 N Campbell St., Valparaiso, IN
• Why It Stands Out: A long-standing district (established 1874) recognized for strong academic offerings — including extensive AP and STEAM opportunities — with well-regarded faculty and diverse extracurriculars that help prepare students for college.

Evolved from the 1861 Valparaiso Collegiate Institute; officially established in 1874, with successive high school buildings (1904, 1927, and the current facility from 1972) and ongoing significant renovations — including a major update in 2016.

Lake Central School Corporation

• Address: 8260 Wicker Ave., Saint John, IN
• Why It Stands Out: Established in 1967, this suburban Tri‑Town district offers comprehensive programs — from academics to fine arts and athletics — with strong community involvement, recognition of student/teacher achievements, and special initiatives like anti‑vaping campaigns.

Opened Lake Central High School in 1967 with a freshmen center added in 1994; significant renovations occurred from 2011–2016 following a $160M referendum, updating academic, arts, and athletic facilities; students have engaged in notable projects like the “Hero Project” featured in national news.

DuPage High School District No. 88

• Address: 2 Friendship Plaza, Addison
• Why it stands out: District 88 operates two high schools noted for their rigorous academics, career and technical education (CTE) programs, and commitment to college readiness. The district excels in preparing students for both higher education and successful careers.

Founded in the mid-1900s to serve suburban communities, District 88 has developed a reputation for responsiveness to changing educational demands and active community involvement.

Batavia Public School District 101

• Address: 335 W. Wilson St., Batavia

• Why It Stands Out: Founded in 1911 by merging east and west Batavia school districts, BPS101 emphasizes innovation, personalized education, and community engagement.

Batavia, one of the earliest Fox Valley communities (settled in 1833), had two separate school districts that unified in 1911 to form BPS101. Since then, it has grown into a district known for strong academics, robust programming (including dual-credit and special needs), and a commitment to equity.

Duneland School Corporation

• Address: 601 West Morgan Ave., Chesterton, IN

• Why It Stands Out: Serves diverse communities along the Lake Michigan shore; offers an International Baccalaureate (IB) program at Chesterton High School — one of only ~21 IB programs in Indiana — and a wide menu of AP, dual credit and vocational opportunities.

Established on Jan. 1, 1969, Duneland serves several townships in Porter County. It includes multiple schools from elementary through high school and is notable for its well-rounded curriculum, strong fine arts and STEM offerings and active community partnerships.

Crown Point Community School Corporation

• Address: 1050 S. Main St., Crown Point, IN

• Why It Stands Out: Founded in 1900, this sizable district serves around 9,000 students across 10 schools. Its historical roots trace to early local education, and it continues to deliver strong academics and athletic success.

The first Crown Point school traces back to Harriet Holton teaching in her home in 1836. The Crown Point Institute opened in 1865, and the High School evolved through several buildings — most recently opening in 2003 at its current South Main Street site. Several schools and traditions — including state championships — reflect both continuity and growth.

Woodstock Community Unit School District 200

• Address: 2990 Raffel Road, Woodstock

• Why It Stands Out: Serving over 6,000 students across a 110‑square‑mile region, District 200 is known for its full spectrum of programming — from early learning and bilingual education to AP, gifted, career, technical and special needs services.

Public schooling in Woodstock began as early as 1836 with a home-taught class. Over time, the district evolved — now offering 12 schools, including two high schools: historic Woodstock High School (est. 1921) and Woodstock North High School (opened in 2008).

Geneva Community Unit School District No. 304

• Address: 227 N. Fourth St., Geneva

• Why It Stands Out: Located in a picturesque, bustling historic Fox River Valley community, District 304 prioritizes high student performance, strong parent engagement and a well-respected high school culture.

Geneva’s high school roots go back to 1876 with a graduating class of just two students. A new building opened in 1958 (expanded later), replacing earlier downtown and Peyton Street locations. Today, Geneva 304 includes one high school, two middle schools, six elementary schools, and a preschool, all serving a compact 23‑square‑mile district.

Leyden Community High School District No. 212 

• Address: 3400 Rose St., Franklin Park
• Why it stands out: With a strong emphasis on technology-enhanced learning and bilingual education, this district fosters an inclusive and forward-thinking atmosphere.

Since its foundation in 1924, Leyden District 212 has been dedicated to preparing students for a rapidly evolving global society by championing innovation and inclusivity.

Plainfield Community Consolidated School District 202

• Address: 15732 S Howard St., Plainfield

• Why It Stands Out: One of Illinois’ largest districts, covering 64 sq mi and serving parts of Plainfield, Joliet, Bolingbrook, Romeoville, Crest Hill and Lockport. It operates four high schools, seven middle schools, and 17 elementary schools, plus early learning and alternative programs.

Established around 1959. Experienced rapid growth, peaking at ~29,254 students in 2010–11, with current enrollment (2022–23) at ~24,737 and gradually declining.

Oswego Community Unit School District 308

• Address: 4175 Route 71, Oswego

• Why It Stands Out: One of the largest districts in Illinois, with about 22 schools serving nearly 18,000 students (as of 2012). It spans multiple towns including Oswego, Aurora, Plainfield, Yorkville and Joliet.

Education here dates to a log-cabin school in the 1830s. The landmark Old Stone School built in 1852 (destroyed by fire in 1885), followed by the Red Brick School. High school origins traced to an 1867 renovation of the old courthouse. The district consolidated in the mid-20th century, with steady expansion thereafter — including numerous new schools from the 1960s through the 2000s. Today it remains a dynamic, growing district.

Union School Corporation

• Address: 599 W 300 N. Suite A, Valparaiso, IN

• Why It Stands Out: A small rural school district serving ~290 in-person students across a shared facility (elementary through high school) plus a significant virtual education program serving around 7,500 students.

Formed in 1951 through consolidation of schools in multiple towns. A new unified building opened in 1957. In 2014, the district considered further consolidation due to declining resources. More recently, a 2025 state bill has proposed dissolving the district effective 2027 amid statewide property tax reforms — staking a possible future for the district.

Community Unit School District 300

• Address: 2550 Harnish Dr., Algonquin

• Why It Stands Out: The 6th largest district in Illinois, spanning parts of Kane, McHenry, and Cook Counties. It includes several high schools, middle, elementary, preschools and alternative programs.

While its founding date isn’t listed, a notable milestone was its new administration facility opening in January 2015 next to Jacobs High School.

Yorkville Community Unit School District 115

• Address: 602 Center Parkway, Yorkville

• Why It Stands Out: Serves approximately 6,400 students across an 85-square-mile area, including Yorkville, Bristol, Montgomery, Oswego, Newark and Plano. Offers a full PreK–12 continuum with multiple grade-level schools.

Originated in the mid-1880s from the merger of Yorkville and Bristol township schools. Yorkville High School was built in 1959, while the original historic school now houses a private academy.

Hanover Community School Corporation

• Address: 14525 Wicker Ave., Cedar Lake, IN

• Why It Stands Out: Serves over 2,800 students (PreK–12) with a staff of over 400. The district enjoys strong community support and aims to prepare students for diverse pathways post-graduation.

Founded in 1969. The district traces its educational roots back to early one-room schoolhouses in the mid-1800s, followed by consolidation in 1969. The main school sites (Jane Ball Elementary, Hanover Central High School, etc.) have evolved incrementally since.

Central Community Unit School District 301

• Address: 275 South St., Burlington

• Why It Stands Out: A smaller, high-performing district serving around 4,600–5,000 students across DeKalb, Elgin and surrounding areas. In 2023, two schools earned “Exemplary” status, and others were “Commendable” per the Illinois State Board of Education.

The district serves several small communities around Burlington and northern Kane County, maintaining a consistent focus on quality and student achievement.

Valley View Community Unit School District No. 365-U

• Address: 801 West Normantown Road, Romeoville
• Why It Stands Out: Valley View School District 365U serves over 15,000 students across 21 facilities in the diverse communities of Bolingbrook and Romeoville. It is recognized for its inclusive educational approach, offering All-Day Kindergarten without tuition and a comprehensive transition program for post-high school special needs students.

Formed in 1972 through the consolidation of several smaller districts, the district’s name reflects its initial implementation of a year-round school calendar to accommodate rapid growth. The district has maintained fiscal stability, operating on a balanced budget and holding strong bond ratings.

This article was recently updated on Aug. 10, 2025, by Chicago Parent writer Sarah Knieff. The update included her research to feature the latest information. Questions? Please reach out to editor@chicagoparent.com.

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