Best Public Schools in Peoria, IL

The city of Peoria, Illinois is home to 34 schools, including 21 elementary schools, 7 middle schools, and 6 high schools, serving students from pre-K through 12th grade. The data reveals stark disparities in academic performance across these schools, with some standout institutions like Reservoir Gifted School and Wilder-Waite Grade School ranking among the top schools in the state, while others like Peoria High School and Manual High School struggle with significantly lower test scores and academic outcomes.

The data suggests a strong correlation between socioeconomic status and educational performance, with schools serving higher percentages of students from low-income families tending to have lower graduation rates, test scores, and other academic metrics. However, there are a few bright spots, such as Limestone Walters Elementary School, which is able to achieve strong results despite serving a high-poverty student population. This indicates that effective school-level practices and leadership can make a meaningful difference in overcoming the challenges of economic disadvantage.

Across the district, chronic absenteeism emerges as a significant concern, with an average of 25.4% of students chronically absent. This issue likely contributes to the academic struggles faced by many schools in the area. Additionally, the data reveals wide disparities in per-student spending, ranging from $10,891 at Quest Charter School Academy to $27,708 at Hollis Consolidated Grade School, suggesting that resource allocation may also play a role in shaping educational outcomes across the city.