Fusion Academy Evanston

Home > Illinois

Best Illinois Alternative Private Elementary Schools (2026-27)

For the 2026-27 school year, there are 22 alternative private elementary schools serving 7,353 students in Illinois.

The alternative private elementary schools in Illinois include American School, Tallgrass Sudbury School, and Chicago Lighthouse.

The average acceptance rate is 86%, which is higher than the Illinois private elementary school average acceptance rate of 85%.

27% of alternative private elementary schools in Illinois are religiously affiliated (most commonly Christian and Lutheran Church Missouri Synod).

Quick Facts (2026-27)

# Private Schools: 22
# Students Served: 7,353

Quick Facts (2026-27)

# Private Schools: 22
# Students Served: 7,353

Illinois Alternative Private Elementary Schools Trends

Private Schools

7,353

Students

$7,540

Avg. Tuition

Avg. Class Size

43%

Students of Color

8:1

Student-Teacher Ratio

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top ranked alternative private elementary schools in Illinois?

The alternative private elementary schools in Illinois include American School, Tallgrass Sudbury School, and Chicago Lighthouse.

How many alternative private elementary schools are located in Illinois?

22 alternative private elementary schools are located in Illinois.

How diverse are alternative private elementary schools in Illinois?

Illinois alternative private elementary schools are approximately 43% minority students, which is higher than the Illinois private school average of 32%.

What percentage of alternative private elementary schools are religiously affiliated in Illinois?

27% of alternative private elementary schools in Illinois are religiously affiliated (most commonly Christian and Lutheran Church Missouri Synod).

Recent Articles

September 08, 2026

When Your Child Outpaces the Private School Curriculum

Learn what parents can do when a child finishes private school coursework early, including acceleration, curriculum compacting, advanced classes, enrichment, and signs the school needs a new plan.

September 08, 2026

How Much Teacher Access Does Your Child Get?

Learn how to evaluate teacher access at private schools, including extra-help time, advising, communication, academic support, and the questions families should ask before choosing a school today.

September 08, 2026

When a Private School Teacher Leaves Midyear

When a private school teacher leaves midyear, parents need clear answers. Learn what schools should do, what children may experience, and when a departure signals deeper concerns.