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

1. Adlai E. Stevenson High School District No. 125 (A+)

• 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.

2. Glenbrook High School District 225 (A+)

• 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.

3. Evanston Township High School District No. 202 (A+)

• Address: 1600 Dodge Avenue, 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.

4. Township High School District No. 113 (A+)

• 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.

5. Hinsdale Township High School District No. 86 (A+)

• 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.

6. Community High School District 128 (A+)

• 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.

7. Township High School District No. 211 (A+)

• 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.

8. Niles Township Community High School District No. 219 (A+)

• 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.

9. Barrington Community Unit School District No. 220 (A+)

• 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.

10. Indian Prairie Community Unit School District No. 204 (A+)

• 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.

This article was recently updated on April 12, 2025 by Chicago Parent’s 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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