For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public schools serving 1,946 students in Manhattan, IL (there are 2 private schools, serving 231 private students). 89% of all K-12 students in Manhattan, IL are educated in public schools (compared to the IL state average of 88%).
The top-ranked public schools in Manhattan, IL are Manhattan Jr High School and Anna Mcdonald Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Manhattan, IL public schools have an average math proficiency score of 41% (versus the Illinois public school average of 27%), and reading proficiency score of 49% (versus the 30% statewide average). Schools in Manhattan have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% 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 Manhattan, IL (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Manhattan Jr High School
(Math: 40% | Reading: 55%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
15606 W Smith Rd
Manhattan, IL 60442
(815) 478-6090
Manhattan, IL 60442
(815) 478-6090
Gr: 6-8 | 603 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 16%
Rank: #22.
Anna Mcdonald Elementary School
(Math: 41% | Reading: 44%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
200 2nd St
Manhattan, IL 60442
(815) 478-0191
Manhattan, IL 60442
(815) 478-0191
Gr: 3-5 | 591 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 16%
Rank: n/an/a
25440 S Gougar Rd
Manhattan, IL 60442
(815) 478-4527
Manhattan, IL 60442
(815) 478-4527
Gr: PK-2 | 752 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 18%
Manhattan, Illinois Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
29520 S Cedar Rd
Manhattan, IL 60442
(815) 478-3652
Manhattan, IL 60442
(815) 478-3652
Gr: K-4 | 81 students Student-teacher ratio: 10:1 Minority enrollment: 17%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in Manhattan, IL?
The top-ranked public schools in Manhattan, IL include Manhattan Jr High School and Anna Mcdonald Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in Manhattan?
3 public schools are located in Manhattan.
What percentage of students in Manhattan go to public school?
89% of all K-12 students in Manhattan are educated in public schools (compared to the IL state average of 88%).
What is the racial composition of students in Manhattan?
Manhattan 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).
Which public schools in Manhattan are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public schools in Manhattan include: Anna Mcdonald Elementary School vs. Wilson Creek Elementary School, Wilson Creek Elementary School vs. Anna Mcdonald Elementary School
Recent Articles
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
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
Understand what a National Blue Ribbon of Distinction means, how schools earn it, and why it matters for academic quality in 2026.