CHICAGO, Illinois – The latest ranking of the best high schools for 2024 in the United States has been released, with several Illinois schools making a strong showing. The comprehensive review conducted by U.S. News and World Report assessed over 24,000 public high schools across all 50 states, taking into account various criteria such as college readiness, state assessments, graduation rate, college curriculum breadth, and the performance of underserved students.
This evaluation led to a list of more than 17,660 public high schools, with the top 20 schools typically having selective enrollment requirements or minimum GPA standards. Among the top performers were BASIS Charter Schools in Peoria, Arizona, securing the coveted first place, and Signature School in Evansville, Indiana, claiming the second spot on the national rankings.
In Illinois, Chicago was well-represented in the top 100 schools nationwide, with Walter Payton College Preparatory High School leading the pack at number 5. Other notable entries from the city included Northside College Preparatory High School, Young Magnet High School, Jones College Prep High School, and Lane Technical High School. While suburban schools didn’t fare as well on the national stage, Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire, Vernon Hills High School, New Trier Township High School in Winnetka, and Hinsdale Central High School stood out as top performers in the state of Illinois.
The rankings also highlighted the best high schools on a national level, with BASIS Charter Schools, Signature School, and Tesla STEM High School in Redmond, Washington, among the top contenders. The report underscored the diverse educational landscape across the country, with schools like Julia R. Masterman Secondary School in Philadelphia, Walter Payton College Preparatory High School in Chicago, and The School for the Talented and Gifted in Dallas, Texas, showcasing excellence in different regions.
For a detailed look at the rankings and to explore the full report, interested readers can access the information online. The rankings serve as a valuable resource for students, parents, and educators, shedding light on the achievements and strengths of high schools across the nation. The recognition of these top-performing schools reflects their commitment to providing a quality education and preparing students for future success in college and beyond.