Choosing the right elementary school in Cook County is a crucial decision for parents looking to set their child up for academic success. With so many options available, it’s important to know which schools stand out.
According to Niche, a leading data-analysis site for schools, some elementary schools in Cook County rank higher than others based on various factors.
The results stem from multiple ranking factors including teacher quality, state test scores, student-teacher ratio, student diversity and more. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.
Best elementary schools in Cook County
1. Barbara B. Rose Elementary School, South Barrington (A+)
- Address: 61 W Penny Road, South Barrington
- District: Barrington Community Unit School District 220
- Why it stands out: Known for its innovative approaches to hands-on learning, Barbara B. Rose fosters a nurturing environment where curiosity and creativity are encouraged. The school is recognized for its exceptional arts and technology programs, which provide students with a well-rounded education.
Established in 1999, Barbara B. Rose Elementary has quickly gained a reputation for excellence in academic performance and community involvement, striving to build a spirit of collaboration among students, parents, and educators.
2. Grove Avenue Elementary School, Barrington (A+)
- Address: 900 S Grove Ave., Barrington
- District: Barrington Community Unit School District 220
- Why it stands out: Grove Avenue is celebrated for its exceptional focus on developing social-emotional skills alongside academic prowess, ensuring that students grow into well-rounded individuals.
Established in 1954, Grove Avenue has a history of fostering a supportive and inclusive community environment, engaging students in a diverse array of extracurricular activities.
3. The Joseph Sears School, Kenilworth (A+)
- Address: 542 Abbotsford Road, Kenilworth
- District: Kenilworth School District No. 38
- Why it stands out: With small class sizes and a personalized approach to education, The Joseph Sears School excels in creating an intimate learning atmosphere where students receive tailored support and guidance.
One of the oldest schools on the list, The Joseph Sears School, founded in 1899, has a storied history of academic excellence and community engagement.
4. Hough Street Elementary School, Barrington (A+)
- Address: 310 S Hough St., Barrington
- School District: Barrington Community Unit School District 220
- Why It Stands Out: Hough Street Elementary is lauded for its warm community atmosphere and innovative teaching methods. Teachers focus on personalized instruction tailored to meet the diverse needs of students, fostering both academic and social growth. The school is known for integrating technology in the classroom to enhance learning experiences.
Established in the heart of Barrington, Hough Street Elementary has played a pivotal role in the community for decades, adapting to educational advancements while maintaining a strong foundation in traditional learning values.
5. Willowbrook Elementary School, Glenview (A+)
- Address: 2500 Happy Hollow Road, Glenview
- School District: Northbrook/Glenview School District 30
- Why It Stands Out: Known for its emphasis on holistic education, Willowbrook Elementary provides enriching extracurricular programs alongside a rigorous academic curriculum. The school’s commitment to arts, sports, and community service projects sets a well-rounded educational experience.
Since its founding, Willowbrook has consistently evolved, introducing progressive educational techniques while rooting students in core academic subjects, making it a pillar of educational excellence in Glenview.
6. Arnett C. Lines Elementary School, Barrington (A)
- Address: 217 Eastern Ave., Barrington
- School District: Barrington Community Unit School District 220
- Why It Stands Out: With a focus on nurturing creativity and critical thinking, Arnett C. Lines Elementary stands out for its commitment to developing leadership qualities in students. The school’s initiatives to promote STEM education and project-based learning have earned it high accolades.
Established to serve the growing population of Barrington, Arnett C. Lines Elementary has maintained a reputation for academic rigor while fostering an inclusive and supportive school community.
7. Shabonee School, Northbrook (A+)
- Address: 1000 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook
- School District: Northbrook School District 27
- Why It Stands Out: Shabonee School is celebrated for its dedication to individual student success, offering robust special education services and gifted programs. The school’s modern facilities and dynamic teaching staff create an optimal learning environment.
With a commitment to educational excellence since its inception, Shabonee School has consistently adapted to new educational standards and methodologies, leading to its current status as a top-performing school in Northbrook.
8. Romona Elementary School, Wilmette (A+)
- Address: 600 Romona Road, Wilmette
- School District: Wilmette School District 39
- Why It Stands Out: Romona Elementary is known for its vibrant community involvement and diverse extracurricular offerings. The school’s focus on inclusive education and environmental stewardship programs resonates with families looking for a comprehensive educational approach.
Situated in the scenic village of Wilmette, Romona Elementary has a long history of academic excellence, continuously enhancing its curriculum to meet the evolving needs of its student population.
9. Wescott Elementary School, Northbrook (A)
- Address: 1820 Western Ave., Northbrook
- District: Northbrook School District 30
- Why it stands out: Wescott Elementary School distinguishes itself through its commitment to providing a well-rounded education that prioritizes both the academic and emotional well-being of its students.
At Wescott, the curriculum is designed to ignite curiosity and encourage intellectual rigor, powered by a team of dedicated teachers who are passionate about personalized learning. The school prides itself on small class sizes, enabling personalized attention and a tailored approach to each student’s learning style.
10. Lincoln Elementary School, River Forest (A)
- Address: 511 Park Ave, River Forest
- School District: River Forest School District 90
- Why It Stands Out: Lincoln Elementary prides itself on its diverse and engaging curriculum that encourages critical thinking and creativity. The school’s forward-thinking approach and well-rounded programs prepare students for lifelong learning.
- With deep roots in the River Forest community, Lincoln Elementary has adapted to changing educational landscapes while preserving its tradition of nurturing student potential.
This article was recently updated on April 4, 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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