U.S. News & World Report announced on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 that five schools from the Chicago area are included in the 2026‑2027 Best High Schools Rankings top 100 list. The ranking evaluates nearly 18,000 public high schools across the United States, placing the Chicago schools among the nation’s highest‑performing institutions.
The annual Best High Schools Rankings assess public schools based on a set of criteria that measure academic outcomes and college readiness. In the latest edition, five Chicago-area high schools met the thresholds required for placement within the top 100, joining a select group of schools nationwide. Northside College Preparatory High School is identified as one of the Chicago schools that achieved this distinction.
The inclusion of five Chicago schools reflects the city’s representation in a competitive national landscape. With almost 18,000 schools considered, the top‑100 segment represents roughly the top 0.6 percent of public high schools evaluated. The Chicago schools’ performance aligns them with other leading institutions recognized for strong academic results and preparation for post‑secondary education.
U.S. News & World Report’s rankings are released each year and are widely referenced by educators, families, and policymakers. The 2026‑2027 list highlights the achievements of the Chicago schools without providing additional commentary on the factors contributing to their placement. The five schools will be listed among the nation’s top 100 public high schools for the upcoming academic year.