Choosing the right school district is a critical decision that can greatly influence your child’s academic success and future opportunities. In DuPage County, certain school districts consistently stand out with higher performance scores than others.
To help families make informed choices, this list highlighting the best school districts in DuPage 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 to see which DuPage County school districts made the list.
Read more: Best School Districts in Chicagoland
Best school districts in DuPage County
This section features some of the best public school districts in DuPage County and are based on public data, academic performance, community reviews and survey feedback to help families find the right fit.
Hinsdale Township High School District No. 86, Hinsdale
- 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.
Since its inception in 1887, the district has strived to cultivate excellence and has a legacy of producing well-rounded graduates.
Indian Prairie Community Unit School District No. 204, Aurora
- 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.
Since its establishment in 1972, it has rapidly risen to prominence through its innovative programs and commitment to excellence.
Naperville Community Unit School District No. 203, Naperville
- Address: 203 W. Hillside Road, Naperville
- Why it stands out: Naperville 203 is renowned for its rigorous academic programs, including Advanced Placement courses and STEM initiatives. The district’s commitment to innovation and student support services consistently earns high marks from both parents and education evaluators.
Established in the late 20th century, District 203 has grown alongside the city of Naperville, adapting to rapid population growth and modern educational standards. Its long tradition of excellence stems from community engagement and continual investment in educational infrastructure.
Elmhurst School District No. 205, Elmhurst
- 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.
Community Unit School District No. 200, Wheaton
- 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, Glen Ellyn
- Address: 596 Crescent Boulevard, 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, Downers Grove
- 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.
Community Unit School District No. 201, Westmont
- 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.
Lisle Community Unit School District No. 202, Lisle
- 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.
DuPage High School District No. 88, Addison
- 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.
This article was recently updated on April 19, 2025, by Chicago Parent’s writer Sarah Knieff. The update included her research and fact-checking expertise to provide the latest information on the best school districts in the area. Questions? Please reach out to editor@chicagoparent.com.
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