Joliet West Among Nation's Best In U.S. News & World Report: District 204 Proclaims

(The following press release came from Kristine Schlismann, Director of Community & Alumni Relations, for Joliet Township High School District 204.)

JOLIET, IL ? For the second consecutive year, Joliet West High School is proud to announce that it has earned high national and metro-area rankings in the 2025?2026 edition of U.S. News & World Report?s Best High Schools, released on August 19, 2025. This recognition places Joliet West among the top 40% of public high schools nationwide, earning the prestigious distinction of being named a U.S. News Best High School.

The Best High Schools rankings evaluate nearly 18,000 public high schools across the United States, using objective data on state assessment results, graduation rates, and college readiness metrics. College readiness is determined by student participation and performance in Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate exams. Joliet West?s strong showing in these categories reflects the school?s ongoing commitment to excellence in education and student achievement.

?We are honored to be recognized as one of the nation?s Best High Schools by U.S. News & World Report,? said Tecara Parker, Principal of Joliet West High School. ?This achievement is a testament to the hard work of our students, the dedication of our teachers and staff, and the support of our families and community.?

JTHS Superintendent Dr. Karla Guseman also expressed her pride in this achievement stating, ?Being recognized once again as a Best High School highlights our district?s strong academic standards, comprehensive student support systems, and college-readiness programs, including Advanced Placement. Throughout the district, JTHS is fortunate to have dedicated staff, outstanding students, engaged families, a supportive Board of Education, and strong community partnerships that create meaningful opportunities for our students. We are incredibly proud of this honor and of Joliet West High School for earning this recognition for a second consecutive year.?

As a top-performing school, Joliet West is now eligible to display the official 2025?2026 Best High Schools award badge from U.S. News, a symbol of academic excellence recognized nationwide. Only ?Best? high schools may use an official U.S. News Best High Schools badge.

For more information about Joliet West High School?s rankings and to view the full profile, visit: Joliet West U.S. News Profile and to learn more about how U.S. News calculates ratings, visit their methodology page.