For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 1,469 students in the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago, IL.
The top-ranked public schools in Near North are Payton College Preparatory High School and Salazar Elementary Bilingual Center. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
The neighborhood of Near North, Chicago, IL public schools have an average math proficiency score of 71% (versus the Illinois public school average of 27%), and reading proficiency score of 72% (versus the 30% statewide average).
Minority enrollment is 67% of the student body (majority Hispanic and Asian), which is more than the Illinois public school average of 55% (majority Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago, IL (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Payton College Preparatory High School
(Math: 84% | Reading: 95%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 1%10
1034 N Wells St
Chicago, IL 60610
(773) 534-0034
Chicago, IL 60610
(773) 534-0034
Gr: 9-12 | 1,265 student Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 65%
Rank: #22.
Salazar Elementary Bilingual Center
(Math: 7% | Reading: 15-19%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
160 W Wendell St
Chicago, IL 60610
(773) 534-8310
Chicago, IL 60610
(773) 534-8310
Gr: PK-8 | 366 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 99%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago, IL?
The top-ranked public schools in the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago, IL include Payton College Preparatory High School and Salazar Elementary Bilingual Center.
How many public schools are located in the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago?
2 public schools are located in the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago.
What is the racial composition of students in the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago?
the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago public schools minority enrollment is 67% of the student body (majority Hispanic and Asian), which is more than the Illinois public schools average of 55% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Preventing Suicide in Schools: 2026 Guide for Educators
Learn updated 2026 strategies for preventing suicide in schools, including warning signs, intervention plans, and school-wide mental health support.
The Impact of Social Media on Students (2026 Update)
Explore the impact of social media on students in 2026, including academic, mental health, and safety insights for parents and educators.
Building a Summer Reading Plan That Keeps Kids Engaged
Learn how to build a summer reading plan that keeps kids engaged, motivated, and improving literacy skills throughout the break.
