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Naperville-area high schools are ranked among the best in the state and among the top 1,000 in the nation in the 2026-27 education rankings by U.S. News & World Report
The publication ranked 18,000 public high schools out of more than 27,000 reviewed, and 675 Illinois schools made its list
Rankings were determined by students who demonstrated outstanding outcomes above expectations in math, reading and science state assessments, earned qualifying scores on an array of college-level exams and graduated in high proportions, the publication said
Neuqua Valley High School in Naperville, part of Indian Prairie District 204, tops the Naperville-area schools, ranking 12th in Illinois and 295th in the nation
U.S. News & World Report noted that about 69% of its students take Advanced Placement courses through which they can earn college credit if they score well on a standardized exam. Their graduation rate of 98% is well above the state median, the report said
“Our dedicated educators invest deeply in guiding students through personalized four-year plans that outline the coursework and experiential learning tailored to their future goals,” District 204 Superintendent John Price said in a statement
“By fostering strong student ownership and engagement, paired with rigorous academics and robust tiered supports, we ensure every student thrives and graduates fully prepared for postsecondary success, career readiness and life beyond high school, regardless of the path they choose.”
Also in Indian Prairie District 204, Metea Valley High School in Aurora was ranked 25th within Illinois and 558th in the nation, while Waubonsie Valley High School, also in Aurora, ranked 42nd in Illinois and 921st in the <a href="https://todaytrendnews7.com/dolly-parton-country-music-icon-dead-at-80-national/” title=”Dolly Parton, country music icon, dead at 80 – National”>national rankings
In Naperville District 203, both Naperville Central and Naperville North high schools were placed within the state’s top 50 high schools
U.S. News ranked Naperville Central as 27th best in Illinois and 618th in the nation, while Naperville North placed 35th in the state and 730th in the nation
More than half of students take Advanced Placement courses and exams, the publication noted. About 54% of Central students and about 50% of North students participate in the college-level coursework
Naperville Central’s graduation rate is 95% and North’s graduation rate is 96%, both well above state median, the publication said
Naperville North Principal Jay Wachtel said the school prepares its students for success after high school whether they attend two- or four-year colleges or universities, enter the military, join the workforce or trades or take a gap year
He said he was proud of the school’s ranking, adding that teachers, staff, students, parents and community all contribute to a positive school environment
“We are a great school, and the rankings confirm that,” Wachtel said. “Our staff is amazing. Teachers are asked to do a lot these days, and our teachers go above and beyond in diversifying learning for all students.”
Naperville North has “amazing traditions,” numerous extracurricular activities and a strong sense of student belonging. The school also works to ensure that students’ interests are met, he said
“When people have a positive experience, the data shows it,” Wachtel said
Naperville Central Principal Jackie Thornton said an increasing number of students have completed career pathways endorsements, which are focused courses of study
The school always looks for ways to improve, and its curriculum is aligned with national and state standards, she said
Naperville Central has hardworking students, strong family support and the best staff, Thornton said
With more than 80 clubs and experiences that are always evolving, students have a high participation rate in extracurricular activities and a high attendance rate, she said
This helps students feel connected with their school community. When students feel like they belong, academic outcomes are better, she said
“These rankings validate the hard work we are doing on behalf of students and families everyday,” Thornton said
The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy in Aurora was ranked 4th in the state and 88th in the national rankings
Michelle Mullins is a freelance reporter for the Naperville Sun
