Why Downers Grove Schools Are a Key Reason to Call It Home

Why Downers Grove Schools Are a Key Reason to Call It Home

If you’re thinking about moving to Downers Grove, one of the biggest pulls is the strength of its education system. From public to private, elementary through high school, these schools consistently deliver quality in academics, extracurriculars, and community support. Here’s a closer look at what makes the schools here so special — and how that translates into value for homebuyers.

Strong Academic Performance & Recognitions

• Grades & Ratings: District 58 (serving preschool through 8th grade) has a strong track record. In recent state assessments, many of its schools have earned either Exemplary or Commendable designations. dg58.org+1
• Proficiency Above State Averages: Students in District 58 score well above state averages in both math and reading. For example, math proficiency runs around the 70th percentile and reading at the 76th percentile compared to state benchmarks. dg58.org+1
• High School Excellence: Downers Grove North and South High Schools are part of Community High School District 99. These schools offer rigorous course options, including many Advanced Placement (AP) and honors courses. The SAT scores for English and Math are higher than state averages. Downers Grove EDC

Variety, Inclusivity & Support

• Diverse School Options: There are 11 elementary schools and 2 middle schools in District 58, serving almost 5,000 students from Downers Grove and nearby areas. dg58.org+2dg58.org+2
• Private & Alternative Choices: For families looking for something different, there are private schools like The Avery Coonley School, which has a long history of excellence and alternative education models. Private School Review+1
• Strong Early Education: The preschool programs (including Grove Children’s Preschool) have earned Gold Ratings in the state’s Preschool Audit for excellence. dg58.org

Extracurriculars & Preparing for the Future

• Clubs, Sports & Activities: The high schools offer more than 60 student clubs and organizations. These include arts, athletics, STEM, and leadership programs, which help students explore and grow beyond academics. Downers Grove EDC
• College Preparedness: The focus on honors, AP, dual credit courses, and strong standardized test performance helps students be more competitive in college applications. Downers Grove EDC+1
• Instructional Quality & Materials: District 58 regularly updates its curricular resources, adopting new materials in English-Language Arts, Science, Math, Social Studies, and Writing to ensure students are learning with modern, relevant resources. dg58.org

What This Means for Homebuyers

Choosing a home in a district with strong schools like those in Downers Grove offers more than peace of mind — it comes with real benefits:

1. Resale Value & Demand: Homes in well-rated school districts tend to retain their value better and are more in demand because many buyers (families especially) see the schools as essential.
2. Quality of Life: Great schools often mean well-maintained facilities, engaged parents, and strong community support — which tend to make neighborhoods more pleasant and involved.
3. Less Stress for Families: Parents get the reassurance of strong curricula, enrichment options, and resources that support varied student needs (e.g., special services, early childhood education).
4. Balanced Development: Because students have access to a range of activities and academic challenge, they’re often better prepared for whatever comes next — whether that's college, trade school, or entering the workforce.

Bottom Line

If you’re weighing what makes a place feel like “home,” Downers Grove’s schools are a powerful factor. They offer a combination of academic strength, curricular variety, extracurricular opportunity, and community support that many families are looking for. Whether you have little ones, middle-schoolers, or high school students, these schools make the area a compelling choice.