Excellence in education is the focus of parents, teachers, administrators, businesses, and economic development leaders in the Danville area community. The quality of education, both academic and technical, is vital to the growth of the community and surrounding areas. It is the mission of Danville District #118 and the county's other 11 districts to provide equal opportunities for all learners as they develop intellectually, socially, vocationally, creatively, and physically in preparation for their adult life and lifelong learning.

More than 6,000 Danville students are enrolled throughout twelve student-attendance centers comprising of nine elementary buildings, two middle schools, and one comprehensive high school. The District boasts of a lower student:teacher ratio than the State average. The Illinois Learning Standards provide a basis for curriculum throughout each grade level and the District meets or exceeds curriculum recommendations from the State Board of Education. For example, Danville High School's comprehensive instructional programs require students to meet higher graduation requirements than those recommended by the State.

Elementary and middle school students focus on reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social science while they enjoy a rounded curriculum that includes Spanish, computer literacy, art, music, and career awareness. Middle school students participate in a number of interscholastic activities including athletics, music, and academic competition. Course selections at DHS include Advanced Placement classes and Dual Enrollment classes that allow students to earn college credit while in high school.

Technology is embraced at every level in the district and throughout the county. As students' individual technical savvy grows, technical programs grow as well, i.e., offering CISCO networking systems training at the high school level. Computers with Internet access are available in many classrooms and administrative services utilize a District-wide student management system.

Several local private schools offer an excellent curriculum combined with character building, and personal development spiritually and socially, in a Christian atmosphere. Schlarman High School, St. Paul's, Holy Family and St. Mary's elementary schools provide a fine college preparatory education from pre-school through 12th grade. The schools also feature a state-of-the-art technology lab with Internet access and multimedia capabilities, and a variety of extracurricular activities including sports, drama and yearbook.

Schlarman High School concentrates on preparing its students for college, while providing them with spiritual, emotional and leadership development. Each of the grades averages about 50 students, with the hopes of growing that enrollment. The school does require a dress code, has a drug testing policy and requires community service to graduate.

The First Baptist Christian School teaches academics based on the Bible and Christianity for nursery school through the 12th grade. Danville Lutheran Schools also offer a Christian-based curriculum at two locations for students in kindergarten through 8th grade.

The Danville Christian Academy, a ministry of the First Assembly of God, teaches students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The school is divided into three levels, where students work at their own pace with a special individualized learning program.

Advanced Degree Completion is also offered through DACC. DACC partners with upper-division colleges and universities to bring bachelor's and master's degree programs to the community. Partnerships currently exist with Franklin University, Eastern Illinois University, and Southern Illinois University - Carbondale.

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