Why School Districts Matter for Renters

For families looking to rent in Chicago, proximity to top-rated schools can be a game-changer. Access to quality education is a top priority for parents, and living near reputable schools not only simplifies your daily routine, but can also enhance your child’s learning opportunities.

At GC Realty & Development, we understand the importance of finding a home that meets your family’s needs. In this blog, we’ll explore the neighborhoods with the best schools in Chicago and provide an overview of important Chicago Public Schools(CPS) enrollment policies to help guide your search.

Chicago Public Schools Enrollment and Transfer Policies

Understanding CPS policies can help you avoid surprises when choosing where to live.  The way we do things here in Chicago seems to be much different from other major cities so here is a breakdown of the city's rules and guidelines around school enrollment. 

Chicago Public Schools General Enrollment Rules

• Neighborhood Schools: Every child in grades K-12 is guaranteed a seat at their designated neighborhood school based on their home address.

• Preschool Enrollment: There is no guaranteed seat for Pre-K students at neighborhood schools. Instead, parents must apply via the Chicago Early Learning platform.

• Selective Enrollment and Magnet Schools: Admission to these schools requires an application through GoCPS. This includes well known schools like Lane Tech and Whitney Young.

Chicago Public Schools Key Enrollment Requirements

• Proof of Age: Documents such as a birth certificate, passport, or medical records are accepted.

• Proof of Address: Requires two documents, such as a utility bill, state ID, or voter registration.

• Immunization Records: Up-to-date vaccination records are required at the time of enrollment.

Chicago Public Schools Special Cases

• Students with Disabilities: Schools must enroll students and provide services outlined in their IEP (Individualized Education Program) or 504 Plan.

• English Learners (ELs): Schools administer a Home Language Survey to determine eligibility for bilingual education.

• Homeless Students: CPS must enroll homeless students immediately, even if they lack typical enrollment documents.

Transferring Schools Within CPS

• Residence-Based Transfers: If a family moves, the student can finish the school year at their current school before transferring to the new attendance area school.

• Selective Enrollment and Program Transfers: Students wishing to transfer to selective or magnet programs must apply through GoCPS.

• Safety Transfers: Students may transfer if safety concerns arise.

• Administrative Transfers: Military academies or dual credit schools may transfer students for non-compliance with program standards.

Re-Engagement For Disconnected Students

The City of Chicago understands life happens and families go through periods where education can be interrupted and CPS wants to work with those families.  CPS offers pathways for students who have become disengaged to return and earn their diploma, either through their original school or alternative options.

Top Chicago Highly Rated Neighborhood Schools

In addition to understanding CPS policies, knowing where the top-rated schools are can help you plan your next move. Here’s a look at some of the best neighborhoods for schools:

1. Lincoln Park

• Schools: Lincoln Elementary School, Alcott College Prep, and Lincoln Park High School.

• Notable Graduates: Many notable people have passed through the halls of Lincoln Park High School including people you might know such as NBA player Michael Thompson, Social Activist Dorothy Day, and politician Jesse White.

• Why Rent Here? Lincoln Park has become one of the top areas in the City of Chicago and offers excellent public and private school options, plus parks, museums, and family-friendly attractions.  No matter where you are in Lincoln Park you are no more than blocks away from lake Michigan and all of the other lake front amenities such as Lincoln Park Zoo. You would think this would immediately be out of your price range but there is still opportunity to rent a 2 bedroom for under $2500.00 per month. Areas around Depaul University and steps to Lake Michigan will be the most expensive areas.

2. Lakeview

• Schools: Blaine Elementary School, Nettelhorst Elementary School, and Lake View High School.

• Notable Graduates: Lake View High School is Chicago's oldest public high school, and it has produced graduates who went on to excel in business, sports, and public service, including entrepreneur Howard Tullman and MLB pitcher Burt Hooton.

• Why Rent Here? Located next to Lincoln Park, Lakeview has a lot of the same benefits but for less of a monthly price tag. Don't get me wrong, the closer you are to Lake Michigan or in the newer residential development near Wrigley Field, the less affordable these neighborhoods become. Lakeview has great schools with vibrant restaurants, shopping, and proximity to downtown.

3. North Center

• Schools: Bell Elementary School, Coonley Elementary School, and Lane Tech College Prep.

• Notable Graduates: Lane Tech College Prep has a prestigious alumni list, including NBA legend George Mikan, former NASA astronaut John Grunsfeld, and actor and comedian Fred Armisen.

• Why Rent Here? North Center is known for top-rated public schools and offers spacious homes with a suburban feel near the city.  Located a little further from downtown and the lake front does allow rents to be less in North Center, but you will still find great transportation and easy shopping.  

4. Hyde Park

• Schools: Ray Elementary School and Kenwood Academy.

• Notable Graduates: Kenwood Academy boasts notable alumni such as Grammy Award-winning singer Chaka Khan, actor Mandy Patinkin, and former U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.

• Why Rent Here? Hyde Park blends strong academics with cultural institutions like the Museum of Science and Industry and the University of Chicago. This is one of the most underrated neighborhoods in terms of costs around the entire city. No where else in any major city can you get this close to a major body of water like Lake Michigan, proximity to downtown, access to shops and restaurants, major medical center, and university all within blocks while still paying less per square foot than any of the other neighborhoods on this list.  

5. Evanston (just north of Chicago)

• Schools: Evanston Township High School and Nichols Middle School.

• Notable Graduates: Evanston Township High School is known for graduates like actor John Cusack, writer Veronica Roth (Divergent series), and NBA player Blake Peters.

• Why Rent Here? Evanston offers a mix of excellent schools, a suburban atmosphere, and easy public transportation access to Chicago.

    6. Park Ridge

• Schools: Franklin Elementary School, Emerson Middle School, and Maine South High School.

• Notable Graduates: Maine South High School’s alumni include former First Lady and author Michelle Obama (attended earlier years at another school but lived in the area), actor Harrison Ford, and political commentator Bill O'Reilly.

• Why Rent Here? Park Ridge is known for its top-rated schools and a family-friendly environment with spacious homes and tree-lined streets. This suburb offers excellent public transit options, a historic downtown area, and quick access to O’Hare Airport. Families are drawn to Park Ridge for its safe neighborhoods, strong sense of community, and proximity to Chicago without sacrificing suburban charm.

What to Consider When Renting Near Schools

Whether you’re renting near a neighborhood school or aiming for a selective enrollment school, here are key factors to keep in mind:

• Proximity: Aim for homes within walking distance or a short commute to your chosen school.

• Safety: Although these neighborhoods listed are located in lower crime areas we encourage you to check neighborhood safety and access to family-friendly amenities.

• School Ratings: All of these schools do have high ratings by comparison but some are better rated then others when it comes to academic performance, extracurricular offerings, and parent reviews.

• Commute Times: Consider how school and work commutes will affect your daily routine.

Why GC Realty & Development is Your Best Partner

With inventory being so tight the last few years we are seeing families renting for longer and longer over the traditional approach of renting and then eventually buying in advance of their kids becoming of school age.  These changes have created the need to locate rentals in areas that have better schools and GC Realty & Development has high quality rentals in these areas that have great schools starting with Pre-K.  Check out our current list of homes and if you don't see what you are looking for then let us know what you are looking for exactly and we can let you know what we have coming up in the next 90 days as all of the upcoming inventory will not be available on our website.  Visit our available properties page today! 

For Landlords: Renting near top schools can boost demand for your property. We’ll help you market effectively to families seeking homes near desirable schools. Schedule a Call Now!

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