Best Elementary School in chicago

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) educates around 200,000 K–8 students across 600+ schools, with nearly 31% proficient in reading and 19% in math on the 2024 Illinois Assessment of Readiness—up 5 and 2 points respectively from 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic reading levels. Black students led the gains, with a 6-point jump in reading . However, chronic absenteeism remains high at ~41%, especially among low-income and minority students Illinois Policy.

To combat disparities, CPS is rolling out its “Together We Rise” equity-driven strategic plan (2025–29), which redirects funding to neighborhood schools, hires more instructional coaches, boosts tutoring, and expands arts and wellness support. With strong intervention strategies and intentional resource allocation, Chicago is making measurable strides toward equitable and holistic elementary education.