Selecting an elementary school is among the most important decisions that a parent makes regarding the education of their child. The elementary school experience provides children with the initial groundwork for their educational path, social skill development, habits of learning, and overall emotional support as they enter adulthood. In a state like Illinois, where there are over 3,700 public elementary schools, parents may feel overwhelmed when trying to choose which elementary school will be best for their child(ren).
To help simplify the decision-making process for parents, we have created a comprehensive, statistical, and parental perspective based guide to some of the high-performing elementary schools in Illinois. These elementary schools were selected for their academic success, highly qualified educators, modern curriculum, community involvement, innovative programs, positive school culture/learning environment, safety, and student success. Whether you are seeking an outstanding gifted program, an enriching STEM program, a nurturing learning environment, or a combination of all three, this list contains the most highly rated elementary schools throughout Illinois for 2026.
1. Forest Park Individual Education (I.E.) School
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Address: 1201 S Des Plaines Ave, Forest Park, IL 60130
Forest Park I.E. School is well-known for its personalized approach to education, tailoring instruction to meet each child’s academic needs and learning style. The school integrates Individualized Education (I.E.) principles, ensuring students receive targeted support and enriched opportunities. Its curriculum strongly emphasizes literacy, numeracy, science exploration, and critical thinking through hands-on lessons.
Students benefit from small-group instruction, data-driven teaching methods, and strong intervention programs designed to help every learner grow. Forest Park I.E. fosters a supportive and warm culture where teachers prioritize emotional well-being alongside academics. Technology-enhanced classrooms, community involvement, and extracurricular programs make this school a nurturing environment for student growth.
2. Walker Elementary School
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Address: 1201 S Wolf Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Walker Elementary School has earned an excellent reputation for its standards-based curriculum, talented educators, and welcoming school environment. The school provides a balanced learning experience that prepares students academically and socially for middle school and beyond.
Walker implements Illinois Learning Standards across all subjects, emphasizing strong literacy and math foundations. Interactive lessons, STEM activities, and project-based learning help children develop real-world skills. Parents appreciate the school’s active communication, vibrant PTO, and inclusive atmosphere that celebrates diversity. Walker Elementary consistently reports strong test scores, high parent satisfaction, and a safe, positive environment that encourages curiosity and confidence.
3. Kingsley Elementary School
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Address: 6509 Powell St, Downers Grove, IL 60516
Kingsley Elementary School in Downers Grove stands out for its highly dedicated staff, modern curriculum, and commitment to student achievement. The school integrates Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), guided reading models, and differentiated instruction to meet the needs of all students.
Kingsley encourages academic exploration through hands-on science lessons, technology tools like Chromebooks and adaptive programs, and enrichment clubs. The school has a strong culture built on respect, responsibility, and kindness. Regular community events, culturally diverse celebrations, and a collaborative school-home partnership enhance students’ social and emotional development. Kingsley’s consistent academic performance and nurturing environment make it a top pick for families.
4. Willard Elementary School
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Address: 2700 Hurd Ave, Evanston, IL 60201
Willard Elementary School is one of Evanston’s most respected and admired schools, known for its engaging curriculum, diverse student population, and supportive staff. The school places a strong emphasis on whole-child development, combining academics with emotional intelligence, leadership, and creativity.
Willard follows a literacy-rich curriculum featuring reading workshops, guided writing instruction, and comprehension-building strategies. Students also enjoy STEAM learning, makerspace challenges, art programs, and musical opportunities. The school’s emphasis on inclusivity and cultural awareness helps children develop empathy and global understanding. With strong academic outcomes, an active PTA, and committed teachers, Willard offers an enriching environment for students.
5. Lincolnwood Elementary School
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Address: 2600 Colfax St, Evanston, IL 60201
Lincolnwood Elementary School is recognized for its high academic standards, modern teaching methods, and supportive school community. The school provides students with strong foundational skills in reading, mathematics, science, and writing, while also promoting collaboration and creativity.
Lincolnwood’s curriculum incorporates technology-driven activities, project-based learning, and enrichment programs designed to challenge students at every level. The school is known for its positive climate, strong parent engagement, and opportunities in arts, physical education, and cultural programs. Teachers use data-driven instruction to personalize learning and ensure steady academic progress. Lincolnwood continues to be a top choice in Evanston due to its balanced and excellence-driven approach.
Do You Know?
Legacy of the University of Illinois System, which was established as a land-grant institution in 1867. The main campus in Urbana-Champaign is a powerhouse for education and discovery, and the entire system (including campuses in Chicago and Springfield) educates over 90,000 students annually and is a major contributor to the state’s economy.
6. Hillcrest Elementary School
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Address: 1500 W Central Rd, Mount Prospect, IL 60056
Hillcrest Elementary School in Mount Prospect is known for its warm, community-centered culture and its focus on both academic and emotional development. The school offers a standards-aligned curriculum with strong instruction in math, reading, STEM, and writing.
Hillcrest prioritizes Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), ensuring students feel safe, respected, and supported. Teachers use small-group instruction, interactive lessons, and inquiry-based science projects to deepen understanding. Hillcrest also offers a variety of extracurriculars and clubs, including art, music, sports, and technology programs. High parent involvement, a safe campus, and excellent teacher collaboration contribute to the school’s outstanding reputation.
7. Windsor Elementary School
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Address: 1315 E Miner St, Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Windsor Elementary School is one of Arlington Heights’ top-performing schools, known for its strong academics, caring staff, and forward-thinking curriculum. The school maintains high proficiency rates in reading and math and is widely praised for its engaging instructional strategies.
Windsor’s curriculum incorporates literacy workshops, STEM activities, hands-on experiments, and collaborative learning tasks.
Teachers consistently differentiate lessons to meet students’ varying abilities and learning styles. The school environment is positive and inclusive, with strong emphasis on character education, teamwork, and respect. Windsor also offers enrichment programs in arts, music, coding, and math, making it a well-rounded school with a commitment to student success.
8. Michael Collins Elementary School
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Address: 407 S Summit Dr, Schaumburg, IL 60193
Michael Collins Elementary School is widely recognized as one of the strongest schools in Schaumburg, known for its academic excellence, talented educators, and enriching student programs. The school maintains some of the district’s highest test scores and consistently ranks well above state averages.
Collins follows a rigorous curriculum supported by technology integration, STEM activities, reading workshops, and collaborative classroom practices. Students participate in enrichment programs such as robotics, math teams, music, and leadership groups. The school places strong emphasis on positive behavior, respect, responsibility, and a growth mindset. With a supportive community, active parent groups, and a safe school climate, Michael Collins Elementary continues to be a top choice for families seeking quality education.
9. Terrace Elementary School
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Address: 3210 W 25th St, Broadview, IL 60155
Terrace Elementary School is known for its supportive and inclusive learning environment, where teachers and staff prioritize academic growth, emotional well-being, and strong community ties. The school implements a curriculum aligned with state standards, focusing on building core abilities in reading, math, science, and writing.
Terrace incorporates technology into instruction, using adaptive programs, Chromebooks, and digital literacy tools to enhance learning. The school values cultural diversity, hosting community events that help students build understanding and appreciation for different backgrounds. With strong family involvement, dedicated teachers, and a commitment to student success, Terrace Elementary continues to thrive academically and socially.
10. Westview Elementary School
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Address: 700 W Old Willow Rd, Prospect Heights, IL 60070
Westview Elementary School is a nurturing, academically focused school that emphasizes strong foundational learning and character development. Known for its dedicated staff and inclusive atmosphere, Westview provides students with the skills they need to succeed both in school and in life.
The curriculum includes rigorous instruction in literacy, mathematics, science, and writing. Westview integrates hands-on STEM learning, reading workshops, and small-group instruction to ensure students stay engaged and motivated. The school’s culture is built on respect, responsibility, kindness, and teamwork. With active community partnerships, academic support programs, and enrichment opportunities, Westview Elementary remains a top-performing school in Prospect Heights.
Conclusion
Illinois offers families a variety of exceptional elementary school options, and the schools listed above, based entirely on your provided selections, represent some of the best in terms of academic quality, teacher excellence, school culture, diversity, and overall student outcomes. Whether you prioritize innovative teaching, whole-child development, STEM education, or a friendly community atmosphere, these schools provide a strong and reliable foundation for students in 2026 and beyond.
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