When we first moved to the city, we fell in love with the vibrancy of urban life. Living close to work, the convenience of public transportation, and endless dining options made our apartment perfect for us. But as our daughter nears school age, we’re confronting a new question: where should we move to ensure she gets the best education possible?
Like many parents, we had heard of Naperville’s stellar schools. Its reputation precedes it, but as we started researching, we realized there’s a wealth of other school districts in Illinois worth considering. And while moving to the suburbs brings its challenges—longer commutes and often higher housing costs—the opportunities for academic excellence make the search worth it.
Top-Ranked Schools That Might Surprise You
While Naperville is often in the spotlight, schools like Adlai E. Stevenson High School stood out as one of the best in the state. Ranked 6th in Illinois, Stevenson boasts a remarkable 73% Advanced Placement® (AP) participation rate and a diverse student body with 53% minority enrollment. It’s a school that truly prepares students for college-level coursework and beyond.
Another gem is New Trier Township High School Winnetka, ranked 10th in Illinois. Known for its academic rigor and vibrant arts programs, its AP participation rate of 61% makes it a strong contender for families seeking well-rounded opportunities.
For families looking further west, Hinsdale Central High School offers a competitive academic environment, ranking 11th in Illinois with an AP participation rate of 61% and a diverse student enrollment.
Even less expected finds include schools like Glenbrook North High School (19th in Illinois) and Barrington High School (20th). Both are in districts that balance strong academics with extracurricular opportunities, making them ideal for fostering well-rounded development.
Beyond Naperville
Naperville’s schools still deserve recognition for their consistent excellence. Naperville North and Naperville Central rank 25th and 27th in Illinois, respectively, offering robust AP programs and diverse student bodies. But equally impressive are other schools in the Indian Prairie District, such as Neuqua Valley and Waubonsie Valley, which rank among the top 40 schools in the state.
The rankings tell part of the story, but visiting these schools and understanding their unique offerings helped paint a fuller picture. Factors like extracurricular programs, community involvement, and cultural diversity are equally important when choosing a school district.
The Trade-Offs
Of course, with high-ranking schools come higher housing prices. Districts like Adlai E. Stevenson and New Trier are known for their competitive housing markets, with many families vying for a spot. And then there’s the reality of suburban commutes, which can quickly sap the joy of city living.
Still, the value of a strong education can’t be understated. Each school we researched showcased a commitment to excellence, making it clear that no matter where we land, we’ll find a community dedicated to helping our daughter succeed.
For now, the house hunt continues. With so many excellent options, it’s both exciting and overwhelming to weigh the choices. But as we’ve learned, Illinois has more to offer than meets the eye—hidden gems abound for families seeking the perfect balance of education and opportunity.