For many families moving to Chicago’s North Shore, one of the biggest questions is:

“Which elementary schools feed into New Trier High School?”

The answer can feel confusing at first because New Trier serves multiple communities and several elementary school districts across the North Shore.

Families relocating from Chicago, California, New York, Texas, and other states often begin researching New Trier years before their children will attend high school. The reputation of New Trier Township High School is one of the biggest reasons buyers target Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Northfield, and surrounding North Shore communities.

This guide breaks down:

• Which elementary districts feed into New Trier
• Which North Shore towns are included
• The differences between districts
• Why buyers prioritize these areas
• What families should know before purchasing a home

What Is New Trier High School?

New Trier Township High School is one of the most well-known public high schools in Illinois and consistently attracts buyers seeking highly rated public schools, strong academics, extracurricular opportunities, athletics, arts programs, and a strong college preparatory environment.

The district serves much of Chicago’s North Shore and includes students from several feeder elementary and middle school districts.

The two campuses are:

• New Trier East Campus — Winnetka
• New Trier West Campus — Northfield

Freshmen generally attend the West Campus, while older students attend the East Campus.

Which Towns Feed Into New Trier?

The primary towns associated with New Trier include:

Because school boundaries can occasionally change, buyers should always confirm district information directly with the school district and municipality during a home search.

New Trier Feeder School Districts

Several elementary and middle school districts feed into New Trier Township High School.

Overview Chart of Major Feeder Districts

Wilmette District 39 Schools

Wilmette is one of the most competitive North Shore markets for buyers with children.

District 39 includes several highly sought-after elementary schools:

• McKenzie Elementary
• Harper Elementary
• Central Elementary
• Romona Elementary

Students generally continue to:

• Highcrest Middle School
• Wilmette Junior High School
• New Trier High School

Many buyers specifically target District 39 because of:

• Walkable neighborhoods
• Strong community involvement
• Access to parks and beaches
• Proximity to downtown Wilmette
• Access to Metra and commuting options

The McKenzie district in particular has become especially competitive among relocating families.

Winnetka District 36 Schools

Winnetka is known for its charming neighborhoods, beautiful tree-lined streets, lakefront access, and highly regarded schools.

Elementary schools include:

• Crow Island
• Hubbard Woods
• Greeley

Students later attend:

• Carleton Washburne School
• The Skokie School
• New Trier High School

Winnetka often attracts buyers seeking:

• Classic North Shore architecture
• Larger lots
• Walkable downtown areas
• Strong community atmosphere
• Luxury homes near the lake

Kenilworth School District 38

Kenilworth is one of the smallest and most exclusive communities on Chicago’s North Shore.

The village is known for:

• Beautiful tree-lined streets
• Historic architecture
• Walkability
• Lakefront proximity
• Tight-knit community atmosphere

Students attend:

• The Joseph Sears School
• New Trier High School

Because Kenilworth is a smaller community with limited inventory, homes can be highly competitive when they become available.

Many buyers are drawn to Kenilworth for its combination of:

• Prestige
• Walkability
• Access to New Trier
• Architectural charm
• Proximity to both Winnetka and Wilmette amenities

Glencoe District 35

Glencoe offers a quieter, wooded North Shore environment with easy access to the lake and downtown Chicago.

Schools include:

• South School - Grades K-2
• West School - Grades 3-4
• Central School - Grades 5-8

Students continue to New Trier High School.

Many buyers are drawn to Glencoe for:

• Privacy
• Large lots
• Ravine properties
• Nature access
• Architectural homes

Avoca District 37

Avoca District 37 serves portions of Wilmette and Glenview.

Schools include:

• Avoca West - Grades K-4
• Marie Murphy School - Grades 5-8

Students also feed into New Trier High School.

This district can appeal to buyers seeking:

• Slightly more affordable entry points into New Trier
• Larger suburban lots
• Convenient expressway access

Sunset Ridge District 29

Located primarily in Northfield, Sunset Ridge District 29 is another feeder into New Trier. 

• Middlefork Primary School - Grades K-3
• Sunset Ridge School - Grades 4-8

Families are often drawn to this area for:

• Larger homesites
• Quiet residential streets
• Strong suburban feel
• Easy access to highways and shopping

Why Families Specifically Seek Out New Trier

The New Trier name carries significant weight for many relocating buyers.

Families often prioritize New Trier communities because of:

• Academic reputation
• Extracurricular opportunities
• Athletics
• Performing arts programs
• Community involvement
• Long-term resale value
• Strong property demand

For many buyers, purchasing within the New Trier district is viewed as both a lifestyle and long-term investment decision.

Most Competitive Areas Within New Trier

While all New Trier communities are desirable, some areas consistently experience especially strong demand.

These often include:

• McKenzie district in Wilmette
• East Winnetka near downtown
• Kenilworth
• Homes near train lines and walkable downtowns
• Updated move-in-ready homes

Inventory can be limited, particularly for turnkey homes in prime elementary school boundaries.

Frequently Asked Questions About New Trier Feeder Schools

Does all of Glenview feed into New Trier?

No. Only certain portions of Glenview feed into New Trier. School boundaries should always be verified during a home search.

Which Wilmette elementary school is most competitive?

Demand fluctuates, but McKenzie Elementary is often one of the most sought-after areas among relocating buyers.

Are New Trier homes more expensive?

In many cases, homes within highly desirable New Trier feeder districts command premium pricing due to long-term demand.

Is New Trier only for wealthy families?

New Trier communities include a wide range of home styles and price points, from condos and townhomes to luxury lakefront estates.

Final Thoughts on New Trier Feeder Schools

For many buyers, understanding New Trier feeder schools is one of the first steps in narrowing down where to live on Chicago’s North Shore.

Each community offers a different lifestyle:

• Wilmette offers walkability and strong community feel
• Winnetka blends luxury and charm
• Glencoe offers privacy and natural beauty
• Northfield provides a quieter suburban setting

Choosing the right fit often depends on commuting needs, housing preferences, walkability, budget, and desired neighborhood feel.

I'm Here To Help

If you are considering a move to Chicago’s North Shore and want guidance on New Trier communities, school boundaries, or current housing inventory, I’d love to help. As a North Shore real estate agent who works extensively with relocating families and buyers targeting New Trier communities, I can help you better understand the differences between neighborhoods, commute patterns, housing styles, inventory trends, and competitive market dynamics.

Whether you are just beginning your research or actively planning a move, feel free to reach out anytime to discuss current opportunities, off-market inventory, or which North Shore community may be the best fit for your family and lifestyle.