Best Grade Schools in Chicago AAHCHICAGO.COM Guide to Top Rated Elementary Schools
Chicago is one of the most family-friendly cities in the country, and a big part of that reputation comes from its schools. Whether you are moving to Chicago for work, relocating your family, or simply exploring your options, finding the right grade school is one of the most important decisions you will make.
At AAHChicago.com, we help families navigate every part of the relocation process, including finding neighborhoods with the best grade schools in Chicago. This guide covers the top-rated elementary schools in Chicago, what makes each one stand out, and how to find the right fit for your child.
Why Chicago's Elementary Schools Stand Out
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) serves over 320,000 students across more than 600 schools. Within that system, a group of selective enrollment and magnet schools consistently rank among the best in Illinois and the nation. These schools post proficiency rates of 70–99% in reading and math, far above the CPS district averages of 42% in reading and 27% in math.
Private and independent schools also thrive here, offering international curricula, Montessori programs, and college prep tracks starting in the earliest grades.
The key is knowing where to look and which neighborhoods to target. That is exactly what AAHChicago.com is built for.
Top Public Elementary Schools in Chicago
1. Edison Elementary Regional Gifted Center
Ranked the #1 public elementary school in Illinois by U.S. News and World Report, Edison is a selective enrollment school serving gifted students in grades K–8. It maintains an 87% reading proficiency rate and an 18:1 student-teacher ratio. Admission is competitive and based on academic assessments, making early preparation essential.
2. Skinner North Elementary School
Consistently ranked #2 in Illinois, Skinner North is a classical magnet school with an 81% proficiency rate and a 15:1 student-teacher ratio. It draws families from across the city thanks to its strong academics and well-rounded program that includes arts and physical education.
3. Keller Elementary Gifted Magnet School
Keller reports an extraordinary 99% ELA and 97% math proficiency rate, making it one of the highest-performing schools in the entire state. As a gifted magnet program, it focuses on accelerated learning within a structured, supportive environment.
4. Decatur Classical Elementary School
Ranked in the top 10 in Chicago, Decatur Classical uses a classical education model with an 85% proficiency rate and a 15:1 student-teacher ratio. Students follow a structured curriculum grounded in history, literature, and the sciences.
5. Hawthorne Elementary Scholastic Academy
A 2024 National Blue Ribbon School, Hawthorne in Lakeview is one of the most recognized schools in the city. It reports that 95% of its students are performing at or above grade level, a standout figure even among Chicago's elite public schools.
Top Private Elementary Schools in Chicago
University of Chicago Laboratory Schools
Known simply as "Lab," this Hyde Park institution has been educating Chicago's brightest young minds since 1896. It holds an A+ rating on Niche, features a 12:1 student-teacher ratio, and serves students from pre-K through 12th grade. The curriculum is inquiry-based and rigorous, designed by educators at one of the world's top research universities.
Morgan Park Academy
Founded in 1873, Morgan Park Academy is one of the oldest independent schools in Chicago. It offers a traditional college-prep education in small class sizes, making it ideal for families who want personalized attention from the earliest grades.
Montessori Academy of Chicago
With a near-perfect 4.92 out of 5 rating based on parent reviews, the Montessori Academy of Chicago delivers a child-led, hands-on learning experience. It is a strong choice for families who prioritize creativity, independence, and self-paced development alongside academic excellence.
British International School of Chicago
For families arriving from abroad or those who want a globally recognized curriculum, the British International School of Chicago offers an internationally accredited education with high academic standards. It is one of the most sought-after private options in the South Loop area.
Best Neighborhoods for Families and Top Schools
School quality often ties directly to neighborhood. Here are three Chicago neighborhoods consistently associated with top-rated grade schools:
Lincoln Park — Home to Lincoln Elementary (ranked #6 in Chicago) and Prescott Elementary, Lincoln Park is one of the most desirable family neighborhoods on the North Side. Expect tree-lined streets, strong community programs, and easy access to the lakefront.
Lakeview — Hawthorne Elementary Scholastic Academy sits in this vibrant neighborhood, which blends urban energy with family-friendly parks and a strong community feel.
Hyde Park — Home to the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, Hyde Park attracts academic families and offers a rich cultural environment alongside some of the city's strongest educational offerings.
Choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as choosing the right school. If you are relocating to Chicago, the team at AAHChicago.com can connect you with vetted resources to help you find housing near the schools that matter most to your family.
What to Look for When Choosing a Grade School
Rankings are a useful starting point, but the right school depends on your child's needs. Here are the factors that matter most:
Academic proficiency rates — Look at both reading and math scores. Top Chicago schools post rates well above 70%, compared to district averages near 40%.
Student-teacher ratio — Smaller ratios mean more individual attention. Aim for schools in the 12:1 to 18:1 range.
Curriculum type — Classical, Montessori, gifted, international, and standard curricula all serve different learners. Match the model to your child.
Extracurriculars — Arts, music, sports, and after-school programs shape the whole child, not just test scores.
Commute and location — A great school that requires a 45-minute commute each way adds real strain to family life. Proximity matters.
How AAHChicago.com Helps Families Relocating to Chicago
Moving to a new city with kids is one of the most stressful transitions a family can face. AAHChicago.com was built to take that stress off your plate. As Chicago's dedicated relocation resource and referral platform, AAH Chicago connects incoming families with trusted vendors for:
Moving and storage services
Corporate and temporary housing
Furniture rental and home staging
Neighborhood guidance and community connections
Custom relocation pages for corporations bringing employees to Chicago
When you know which school district you want to land in, AAHChicago.com helps you find a home nearby, connect with the right service providers, and settle in faster. It is a full-circle resource for families making Chicago their next chapter.
A Quick Comparison: Top Chicago Grade Schools at a Glance
School | Type | Proficiency Rate | Student-Teacher Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
Edison Elementary Regional Gifted Center | Public / Selective | 87% | 18:1 |
Skinner North Elementary School | Public / Magnet | 81% | 15:1 |
Keller Elementary Gifted Magnet | Public / Gifted Magnet | 99% ELA / 97% Math | — |
Decatur Classical Elementary | Public / Classical | 85% | 15:1 |
Hawthorne Elementary Scholastic Academy | Public / Scholastic | 95%+ | — |
University of Chicago Lab Schools | Private | A+ (Niche) | 12:1 |
Morgan Park Academy | Private | College-Prep Focus | Small Class Sizes |
Montessori Academy of Chicago | Private | 4.92/5 Parent Rating | — |
Ready to Make Your Move?
Chicago's grade school landscape is one of its best-kept secrets. From nationally ranked public gifted programs to internationally accredited private schools, families who do their research find world-class education options across the city.
The key is pairing the right school with the right neighborhood and the right support system during your move. That is where AAHChicago.com makes a real difference. Visit the site today to explore Chicago relocation resources built specifically for families like yours.
Disclaimer: School rankings and proficiency data referenced in this post are sourced from U.S. News and World Report, Niche, SchoolDigger, and GreatSchools as of 2024–2025. Rankings may change year to year. AAHChicago.com is a relocation referral and media platform and does not represent or endorse any specific school. Families are encouraged to visit schools directly and consult official CPS resources when making enrollment decisions.
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