For the 2026 school year, there are 5 public elementary schools serving 1,200 students in Charleston, IL.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in Charleston, IL are Carl Sandburg Elementary School, Jefferson Elementary School and Pathways Roe 11. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Charleston, IL public elementary schools have an average math proficiency score of 16% (versus the Illinois public elementary school average of 27%), and reading proficiency score of 18% (versus the 30% statewide average). Elementary schools in Charleston have an average ranking of 3/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Illinois public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 23% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the Illinois public elementary school average of 55% (majority Hispanic).
Best Public Elementary Schools in Charleston, IL (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Carl Sandburg Elementary School
(Math: 25-29% | Reading: 25-29%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
1924 Reynolds Dr
Charleston, IL 61920
(217) 639-4000
Charleston, IL 61920
(217) 639-4000
Gr: K-3 | 537 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 26%
Rank: #22.
Jefferson Elementary School
(Math: 13% | Reading: 15%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
801 Jefferson Ave
Charleston, IL 61920
(217) 639-7000
Charleston, IL 61920
(217) 639-7000
Gr: 4-6 | 663 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 20%
Rank: #33.
Pathways Roe 11
Alternative School
(Math: ≤10% | Reading: ≤10% )
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
730 7th St, Jerald Calandrilla
Charleston, IL 61920
(217) 348-0151
Charleston, IL 61920
(217) 348-0151
Gr: 6-12
Charleston, Illinois Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
Charleston Bridges (Closed 2012)
Alternative School
730 7th St
Charleston, IL 61920
(217) 348-0151
Charleston, IL 61920
(217) 348-0151
Gr: 6-12
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in Charleston, IL?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in Charleston, IL include Carl Sandburg Elementary School, Jefferson Elementary School and Pathways Roe 11.
How many public elementary schools are located in Charleston?
5 public elementary schools are located in Charleston.
What is the racial composition of students in Charleston?
Charleston public elementary schools minority enrollment is 23% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the Illinois public elementary schools average of 55% (majority Hispanic).
Which public elementary schools in Charleston are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public elementary schools in Charleston include: Jefferson Elementary School vs. Carl Sandburg Elementary School
Recent Articles
Year-Round Schooling in 2026: Updated Parent Guide
Explore the latest 2026 data, trends, costs, and parent planning tips in the ongoing debate over year-round schooling vs the traditional calendar.
No Child Left Behind: Past, Present, and Future of U.S. School Policy
Explore how No Child Left Behind evolved into ESSA, what it means for 2025‑26 schooling, and what parents need to know about testing, admissions planning, and funding.
Understanding Public School Fees & Optional Costs Guide
Discover what public school fees are required versus optional, with 2026 updates for parents, students, and educators on budgeting and planning.