For the 2025 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 452 students in 61741, IL.
The top ranked public schools in 61741, IL are Prairie Central Upper Elementary School and Prairie Central Jr High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public schools in zipcode 61741 have an average math proficiency score of 27% (versus the Illinois public school average of 27%), and reading proficiency score of 34% (versus the 30% statewide average). Schools in 61741, IL have an average ranking of 7/10, which is in the top 50% of Illinois public schools.
Minority enrollment is 15% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Illinois public school average of 55% (majority Hispanic).
Best 61741, IL Public Schools (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Prairie Central Upper Elementary School
(Math: 29% | Reading: 34%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
312 N Center St
Forrest, IL 61741
(815) 657-8238
Forrest, IL 61741
(815) 657-8238
Gr: 5-6 | 220 students Student-teacher ratio: 10:1 Minority enrollment: 14%
Rank: #22.
Prairie Central Jr High School
(Math: 24% | Reading: 34%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
800 N Wood St
Forrest, IL 61741
(815) 657-8660
Forrest, IL 61741
(815) 657-8660
Gr: 7-8 | 232 students Student-teacher ratio: 11:1 Minority enrollment: 15%
61741, Illinois Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
450 N Bach
Forrest, IL 61741
(815) 657-8461
Forrest, IL 61741
(815) 657-8461
Gr: K-4 | 147 students Student-teacher ratio: 11:1
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public schools in 61741, IL?
The top ranked public schools in 61741, IL include Prairie Central Upper Elementary School and Prairie Central Jr High School.
How many public schools are located in 61741?
2 public schools are located in 61741.
What is the racial composition of students in 61741?
61741 public schools minority enrollment is 15% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Illinois public schools average of 55% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles

What Are Public Schools Doing to Fight Obesity and Is It Working?
Childhood obesity rates continue to climb. While many public schools have implemented policies and programs to combat the problem, there is always more to be done. Keep reading to learn what schools are doing to prevent obesity and how you can help.

Massachusetts: Boston Public Schools Offer Free Lunches
Kids in Boston Public Schools will enjoy free lunches this year, thanks to participation in a federal program that cuts out paperwork required to prove eligibility for the free lunch program.

Michigan Schools: Free Meals for All Students in Some Detroit Schools
Learn about a pilot program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture that would offer two free meals and snacks to all Detroit Public School students daily – a controversial decision for some taxpayers.