Sandburg Elementary School

Sandburg Elementary, serving K–5, educates approximately 281 students in Springfield’s District 186, with a student–teacher ratio of 16:1.Ranked 333 among Illinois elementary schools and 2 in the Springfield district, it offers strong reading performance: 42% proficiency, with 27% in math.The student body is diverse, with 58% minority enrollment—including roughly 37% Black, 4.6% Asian, and 2.8% Hispanic students. Niche gives Sandburg a B+ overall grade, praising its academic quality, teacher care, and top diversity ranking in Springfield and Sangamon County.Community reviews consistently highlight the school’s warm atmosphere and strong teacher-student relationships.

Sandburg continues to rank highly—for “Most Diverse Public Elementary School” in Springfield and Sangamon County, and among the best in Illinois for teacher quality. Maintains a solid presence in state evaluations—333 statewide and 2 in District 186.

1. How large and diverse is Sandburg Elementary? With around 280–290 K–5 students, Sandburg boasts a diverse community—58% minority representation, including significant Black, Asian, and Hispanic populations. 2. How well do students perform academically? Sandburg does well in reading with 42% proficiency, and about 27% in math—placing it solidly within the district rankings and earning a B+ overall academic grade. 3. What makes Sandburg known for diversity and teaching quality? Niche rankings highlight Sandburg as the most diverse public elementary school in Springfield and Sangamon County, plus it ranks among the best in Illinois for teacher quality. 4. What do parents love about the school environment? Parents describe the environment as “that special place” where staff “really care about the kids,” and every child is seen as an individual. 5. What’s a typical school day schedule? Breakfast begins at 8:30 AM, the school day runs from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM, with early dismissal at 2:30 PM on Wednesdays. Lunch and recess occur in staggered shifts by grade.