Best Chester Public Schools (2026)

For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public schools serving 968 students in Chester, IL (there are 2 private schools, serving 232 private students). 81% of all K-12 students in Chester, IL are educated in public schools (compared to the IL state average of 88%).
The top-ranked public schools in Chester, IL are Chester Elementary School and Chester High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Chester, IL public schools have an average math proficiency score of 18% (versus the Illinois public school average of 27%), and reading proficiency score of 31% (versus the 30% statewide average). Schools in Chester have an average ranking of 5/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Illinois public schools.
Minority enrollment is 16% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Illinois public school average of 55% (majority Hispanic).

Best Public Schools in Chester, IL (2026)

School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Chester Elementary School
(Math: 20% | Reading: 34%)
Rank:
6/
10
Top 50%
650 Opdyke St
Chester, IL 62233
(618) 826-2354
Gr: PK-8 | 637 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 19%
Rank: #22.
Chester High School
(Math: 6-9% | Reading: 10-14%)
Rank:
2/
10
Bottom 50%
1901 Swanwick St
Chester, IL 62233
(618) 826-2302
Gr: 9-12 | 331 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 11%
Rank: n/an/a
Okaw Regional Voc System
Vocational School
1 Taylor St Rm 101
Chester, IL 62233
(618) 680-0154
Gr: 9-12

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-ranked public schools in Chester, IL?
The top-ranked public schools in Chester, IL include Chester Elementary School and Chester High School.
How many public schools are located in Chester?
3 public schools are located in Chester.
What percentage of students in Chester go to public school?
81% of all K-12 students in Chester are educated in public schools (compared to the IL state average of 88%).
What is the racial composition of students in Chester?
Chester public schools minority enrollment is 16% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Illinois public schools average of 55% (majority Hispanic).

Recent Articles

Understanding School Safety Policies in 2026
Understanding School Safety Policies in 2026
Learn how school safety policies are evolving in 2026, including mental health support, AI monitoring, emergency planning, and parent rights.
How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health at School
How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health at School
Practical guidance for parents and educators on supporting child mental health during the school year, with expert strategies and 2026 insights.
What a National Blue Ribbon of Distinction Means in 2026
What a National Blue Ribbon of Distinction Means in 2026
Understand what a National Blue Ribbon of Distinction means, how schools earn it, and why it matters for academic quality in 2026.

Quick Links