Choosing a school district is a major decision that shapes your child’s learning journey. In Lake County, several districts stand out for their strong academics and proven success in preparing students for the future.
To help families make informed choices, this list highlighting the best school districts in Lake 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 Lake County school districts made the list.
Read more: Best School Districts in Chicagoland
Best school districts in Lake County
1. Adlai E. Stevenson High School District No. 125, Lincolnshire (A+)
- Address: 1 Stevenson Drive, 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. Township High School District No. 113, Highland Park (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.
With roots dating back to the early 20th century, District 113 has been a beacon of educational progression and community collaboration.
3. Community High School District 128, Vernon Hills (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.
After merging two local high schools in 1999, the district rapidly developed a reputation for educational superiority and community involvement.
4. Grayslake Community High School District No. 127, Grayslake (A+)
- 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.
5. Lake Zurich Community Unit School District No. 95, Lake Zurich (A)
- 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.
6. Community High School District No. 117, Lake Villa (A+)
- 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.
7. Wauconda Community Unit School District No. 118, Wauconda (B+)
- Address: 555 N. Main St., Wauconda
- Why it stands out: Wauconda CUSD 118 is recognized for fostering a supportive learning environment that prioritizes student wellness and academic growth. While it holds a solid B+ rating, the district is continuously working on expanding advanced placement offerings and extracurricular programs.
Dating back over a century, the district has grown steadily, reflecting the changing demographics of Wauconda. Investments in modern facilities and community involvement have helped maintain its reputation in the region.
8. Zion-Benton Township High School District No. 126, Zion (B-)
- Address: 3901 21st Street, Zion
- Why it stands out: District 126 offers a diverse set of courses and career-focused paths to prepare students for various futures. The district is noted for its cultural diversity and dedication to improving student engagement and achievement through targeted programs.
District 126 has served a vibrant community with a mix of urban and suburban characteristics. Over time, it has worked to address challenges through strategic initiatives aimed at educational improvement.
9. Round Lake Community Unit School District No. 116, Round Lake (C+)
- Address: 884 W. Nippersink Road, Round Lake
- Why it stands out: Round Lake CUSD 116 emphasizes inclusivity and community involvement, seeking to bridge educational gaps. While currently rated C+, the district offers programs to support diverse learners and is committed to enhancing resources and instructional quality.
The district has evolved alongside the growing population of Round Lake in recent decades. Its multicultural community reflects the district’s efforts to embrace diversity and foster a nurturing environment.
10. Waukegan Community Unit School District No. 60, Waukegan (C-)
- Address: 1201 N. Sheridan Road, Waukegan
- Why it stands out: Waukegan CUSD 60 remains dedicated to serving a large and diverse student population. The district has launched several reform and support programs aiming to improve academic outcomes and provide equitable opportunities.
As one of the larger districts in the region, District 60’s history features significant industrial growth and demographic shifts in Waukegan. Despite hurdles, it continues efforts toward growth by engaging community partners and adopting new educational strategies.
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 Lake County. Questions? Please reach out to editor@chicagoparent.com.
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