As college admissions grow more competitive and global education takes center stage, many families in Cook County are increasingly considering private schooling for their children.
Private schools offer diverse educational strategies, catering especially to students eager to learn multiple languages or thrive in structured, college-preparatory settings.
Although tuition at these institutions can be significant, many schools provide financial aid and scholarships to families who meet certain criteria.
Initiating contact with schools to inquire about their admissions processes and financial assistance programs is often a crucial step towards securing an exemplary education for your child.
According to Niche, here are the best private schools in Cook County:
1. **British International School of Chicago, South Loop (A+)**
*Address: 161 W. 9th St., Chicago*
Known for its connection to the Nord Anglia education system, the British International School of Chicago is an elite institution that emphasizes preparing learners to be competent global citizens.
Serving grades PreK-12, the school provides a rigorous academic curriculum designed to transition students into the International Baccalaureate (IB) program during their final two years of high school, focusing on core subjects like mathematics, English, and history.
Extracurricular activities are also a pivotal part of student life, with options ranging from a dance program developed by Juilliard to courses in engineering and design.
2. **Roycemore School (A+)**
*Address: 1200 Davis St., Evanston*
This school excels in offering programs for gifted students and provides a college prep environment that assures parents their children will be well-prepared for future success.
Roycemore takes a holistic approach centered around individual student experiences, allowing opportunities for in-depth passion projects that further engage students in learning topics that truly interest them.
The school’s focus on building self-confidence and a sense of community is a key aspect of its educational promise.
3. **North Shore Country Day (A+)**
*Address: 310 Green Bay Road, Winnetka*
North Shore Country Day is characterized by a robust liberal arts-based educational framework where individual student interests are prioritized for success.
Emerging from the Country Day School movement, this co-ed PreK-12 institution aims to cultivate model citizens who embody a philosophy of “live and serve.”
High school students enjoy unique educational experiences, such as the opportunity to design classes based on personal interests, and the absence of “honors” courses as each course is delivered at an advanced level.
4. **Francis W. Parker School (A+)**
*Address: 330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago*
Located in Lincoln Park, this progressive school fosters a commitment to community and citizenship.
The co-ed, PreK-12 school grounds its educational model in the belief that societal needs should shape school work.
As it undergoes campus expansion, Francis W. Parker School remains dedicated to equipping students with the skills to enter society as thoughtful and ethical citizens.
5. **Lycée Français de Chicago (A+)**
*Address: 1929 W. Wilson Ave., Chicago*
Students at this French immersion school develop fluency in multiple languages while nurturing a global perspective, preparing them for participation in a global economy.
The curriculum utilizes a distinctive approach to language acquisition, with early education immersing students in both French and English, progressing to the option of further languages as students advance.
Graduation from Lycée Français de Chicago often leaves students fluent in multiple languages, ready to pursue curriculum tracks like the International Baccalaureate and French Baccalaureate, both of which emphasize academic rigor combined with ethics and global mindedness.
6. **Latin School of Chicago (A+)**
*Address: 59 W. North Blvd., Chicago*
Latin School places a heavy emphasis on individualized education, encouraging students to develop well-rounded characteristics through diverse extracurricular activities.
By implementing a whole-child learning approach, this PreK-12 co-ed school fosters a personalized educational journey, while minimizing the use of letter grades in the lower school until fourth grade.
High school students experience a unique class schedule featuring both extended blocks and shorter periods, with each student’s timetable specifically designed to meet their individual needs.
7. **University of Chicago Laboratory Schools (A+)**
*Address: 1362 E. 59th Street, Chicago*
Tied closely to the University of Chicago, this private school is renowned for its innovative educational methods and progressive philosophy crafted over 125 years ago.
The campus encourages inquiry and experimentation among students, from nursery through graduation, promoting civic-mindedness and a sense of belonging.
A variety of extracurricular options, including debate club and sports, foster a well-rounded education.
8. **Beacon Academy (A+)**
*Address: 1574 Sherman Ave., Evanston*
Beacon Academy is noted for its college preparatory education and strong community, underpinned by a structure based on Montessori principles that aim to nurture the child’s complete development.
Catering to students in grades 9-12, Beacon Academy provides access to the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum alongside its unique Experiential Learning (XP) program.
The XP program, focusing on real-world learning, invites students to engage deeply in their social studies and English education.
9. **St. Ignatius College Prep (A+)**
*Address: 1076 Roosevelt Road, Chicago*
This Catholic co-ed private school emphasizes a comprehensive education tailored towards community involvement and the development of a purposeful life.
St. Ignatius prepares students for lives of faith, love, and service through a curriculum that includes AP offerings, theology, and various competitive clubs and sports.
Approximately 75 percent of students participate in one or more of the 35 sports options, further highlighting the school’s commitment to holistic education.
10. **Chicago Academy for the Arts (A+)**
*Address: 1010 West Chicago Ave., Chicago*
Recognized as one of the premier high school arts programs in the country, the Chicago Academy for the Arts attracts students who aspire to further their education in prestigious universities and conservatories.
The academy offers rigorous training in various creative disciplines such as theater, dance, visual art, creative writing, music, and film, all while maintaining academic excellence in subject areas.
Graduates often find themselves admitted into renowned institutions like CalArts and Juilliard, thanks to the well-rounded education and extensive opportunities provided at this elite academy.
As parents evaluate the best educational pathways for their children, the options available within Cook County’s private school system offer choices that cater to diverse interests and educational philosophies.
By investigating these establishments and utilizing available financial resources, families can increase their chances of securing a top-tier educational experience that aligns with their child’s individual needs.
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