We are proud to announce that Coretta Scott King Magnet School in University Park has been recognized with a high national ranking in the U.S. News & World Report Best Elementary Schools list for the 2025-26 school year.

The rankings, released October 28, place Coretta Scott King Magnet School in the top 40% of elementary schools nationwide, earning the distinction of a U.S. News Best Elementary School and eligibility to display the official 2025-26 Best Elementary School award badge. The school is ranked 523rd in the state of Illinois.

Schools were evaluated based on student proficiency in mathematics and reading, as determined by state assessment tests. Half of the ranking formula considered student achievement, while the other half examined performance in the context of socioeconomic factors, highlighting schools that help all students succeed.

“This achievement is a direct result of the dedication and collaboration of our students, staff, and families,” said Superintendent Dr. Kara Coglianese. “We are incredibly proud of our school community and the opportunities we continue to create together.”

Coretta Scott King Magnet School is an International Baccalaureate (IB) school serving multicultural kindergarten through 5th grade students. The IB program develops students’ intellectual, personal, emotional, and social skills to inspire lifelong learning and global citizenship. The school’s emphasis on international mindedness encourages students to engage in meaningful inquiry into global issues and empowers them to take action based on their learning. Admission is based on an application and lottery process.

“As the new principal of Coretta Scott King Magnet School in University Park, I am incredibly proud to see our school recognized on a national level,” said Principal Bonita Arceneaux-Anderson. “Our students and staff demonstrate excellence each day, and I look forward to continuing this tradition of high achievement.”

To learn more about how U.S. News ranks the Best Elementary Schools across the country, visit www.usnews.com.

Coretta Scott King Magnet School Principal Bonita Arceneaux-Anderson (second from left) was joined by CM 201-U Superintendent Dr. Kara Coglianese (left) and members of the school’s administration and faculty as they proudly received their plaque at the CM Board of Education Meeting on November 18, 2025.

Pictured L–R: Dr. Kara Coglianese, Bonita Arceneaux-Anderson, Jocelyn Farris, Raven Roberts, Kelly Brown, Heather Rossi, and Laura Birk
Pictured Back Row: Barb Galloy, Liz Gebbia, Margaret Caraher, Lauren McFarlane, and Oliva Ocha