Best high schools in Illinois ranked by U.S. News & World Report – NBC Chicago

Five schools from Chicago and several others in the suburbs have been recognized as some of the top high schools in Illinois, according to a new list released by U.S. News and World Report. The “2024 Best High School Rankings” evaluated over 24,000 public high schools nationwide, with criteria including college readiness, state assessments, graduation rate, college curriculum breadth, and underserved student performance.

In Illinois, a total of 673 schools were ranked, with the top five schools all being selective enrollment or magnet schools located in Chicago. Walter Payton College Preparatory High School claimed the top spot in the state, followed by Northside College Preparatory High School, Young Magnet High School, Jones College Prep High School, and Lane Technical High School.

The first suburban Chicago school to make the list was Adlai E Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire, ranking at No. 6 in the state. Of the top 25 schools in Illinois, 24 are located in the Chicago area.

Nationally, the top high schools included BASIS Charter Schools in Peoria, Arizona, Signature School in Evansville, Indiana, and Tesla STEM High School in Redmond, Washington. Walter Payton College Preparatory High School in Chicago also made the list of the top 25 high schools in the country.

The full report provides a comprehensive look at the top high schools in each state and across the nation, showcasing the dedication and excellence of these educational institutions in preparing students for success.