Great teachers do more than just educate—they inspire, guide and shape a child’s future. If you’re searching for the best public school teachers in Cook County, a new ranking from Niche has the answers.
Niche, a trusted platform for school and community rankings, has released its latest list of Cook County public schools with the best teachers. The rankings are based on key factors such as teacher ratings, student performance on state assessments, teacher salaries and more.
Wondering which schools made the cut? Below, we break down the top-ranked public schools with the best teachers in Cook County, along with their overall Niche grade.
Read more: Best School Districts in Cook County
Top 3 Cook County public schools with the best teachers
1. New Trier Township High School, Winnetka (A+)
- Address: 385 Winnetka Avenue, Winnetka
- District: New Trier Township High School District No. 203
- Why it stands out: A top-ranked college preparatory school with rigorous academics, nationally recognized extracurriculars, and a strong focus on student support and service.
Founded in 1901, New Trier Township High School serves 4,000 students from Chicago’s North Shore. Despite its size, New Trier maintains a small-school feel with big-school resources, offering personalized guidance through its advisor program, level-based curriculum and post-high school counseling. Consistently ranked among Illinois’ top high schools, it boasts a mean ACT score of 27.1, with 96% of graduates enrolling in college.
New Trier offers a renowned fine and performing arts program, more than 150 student clubs and more than 35 interscholastic athletic teams, holding the most state championships in Illinois history. Its commitment to service learning, student well-being and academic excellence creates a well-rounded and supportive high school experience, making it one of the most respected schools in the state.
2. Lemont Township High School, Lemont (A+)
- Address: 800 Porter St., Lemont
- District: Lemont Township High School District 210
- Why it stands out: A National Blue Ribbon School known for its strong academic programs, state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to student success in college and beyond.
Lemont High School, established in 1891, serves 1,300 students from Lemont and surrounding areas. With a 96.1% graduation rate and 85% college enrollment rate, it offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with Honors and AP courses, plus specialized programs in technology, business, and the arts. The school follows a Block 8 schedule, providing deeper learning opportunities and strong student support services like peer tutoring and career-focused internships.
Beyond academics, Lemont High boasts a competitive athletics program, a thriving fine arts department, and 50+ student organizations. Its state-of-the-art campus, featuring a Performing Arts Center, modernized athletic facilities and a 26-acre sports complex, reflects the district’s commitment to student growth and community engagement.
3. Grove Avenue Elementary School, Barrington (A+)
- Address: 900 S. Grove Ave., Barrington
- District: Barrington Community Unit School District No. 220
- Why it stands out:A National Blue Ribbon School recognized for its strong academics, dedicated staff and long-standing commitment to student success.
Grove Avenue Elementary, one of eight elementary schools in Barrington 220, has been a pillar of the community since 1954. Originally serving Grades K-6, it now provides a comprehensive K-5 education focused on academic excellence and student development. The school has earned the prestigious National Blue Ribbon Award three times, highlighting its high achievement and exceptional learning environment.
With a dedicated teaching staff, strong community support and a history of excellence, Grove Avenue Elementary continues to provide students with the foundation they need for future success. Its Grizzly Bear mascot represents the school’s spirit of resilience, teamwork and lifelong learning.
More top Cook County public schools with the best teachers
- Hough Street Elementary School, Barrington (A+)
- Glenbrook North High School, Northbrook (A+)
- Barbara B. Rose Elementary School, South Barrington (A+)
- Fairview South School, Skokie (A)
- John Hersey High School, Arlington Heights (A+)
- Forest Hills Elementary School, Western Springs (A)
- Glenbrook South High School, Glenview (A+)
- Sunset Ridge Elementary School, Northfield (A)
- Central School, Glencoe (A)
- Hubbard Woods Elementary School, Winnetka (A)
- Arnett C. Lines Elementary School, Barrington (A+)
- The Skokie School, Winnetka (A)
- Crow Island Elementary School, Winnetka (A)
- George B. Carpenter Elementary School, Park Ridge (A)
- Maple School, Northbrook (A)
- Maine East High School, Park Ridge (A)
- Buffalo Grove High School, Buffalo Grove (A+)
- Prospect High School, Mt. Prospect (A+)
- Highlands Middle School, La Grange Highlands (A)
- Pleasantdale Middle School, Burr Ridge (A)
- Pleasantdale Elementary School, La Grange (A)
- Wescott Elementary School, Northbrook (A)
This article was recently updated on March 7, 2025 by Chicago Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina Beniaris. The update included her fact-checking this list using the latest data from Niche to provide the latest information on Illinois’ best teachers. Questions? Please reach out to katina@chicagoparent.com.
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