Best Elementary Schools in Illinois (2026 List)

Illinois boasts some of the finest elementary schools in Illinois through strong academics and a commitment to forward-thinking education initiatives. Within the state, there are over 4,300 elementary schools. Public schools have an impressive 13:1 student-teacher ratio and this helps create more individualized classrooms. Recent data show a 5-point increase in English Language Arts proficiency for Chicago Public Schools students, which is an indication that the state is moving in a positive direction. Illinois has made other improvements for kids as well, including the Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan, expanded computer science opportunities, dual-language support, and social-emotional learning initiatives. All of these initiatives create a solid learning environment and are why families continue to move to Illinois for quality elementary education.