Reply The purpose of the rankings is to provide insight into academic performance among underserved groups, showing how well schools are supporting these students, Anita Narayan, managing editor of education at U.S. News, said in a news release. (Shutterstock) CHICAGO HEIGHTS, IL — Bloom Trail High School in Chicago Heights has been named one of the best high schools in Illinois, according to a new ranking by U.S. News and World Report. This year's list ranks more than 440 public high schools throughout the state. Among those schools, Bloom Trail was ranked at 339. The purpose of the rankings is to provide insight into academic performance among underserved groups, showing how well schools are supporting these students, Anita Narayan, managing editor of education at U.S. News, said in a news release.