Every child deserves an education that fits who they are.
When school doesn't fit, everyone feels it.
You want the best for your child's education, but traditional schools aren't always designed to meet every learner where they are. Maybe your child is ahead in some areas and needs more challenge. Maybe they need a different pace, a different approach, or simply a place where they feel seen.
One pace for everyone
Traditional classrooms group kids by age, not ability — leaving some bored and others struggling to keep up.
Limited voice & choice
Students rarely get a say in how or what they learn, making it harder to stay engaged and motivated.
"Is this really the only option?"
Every child deserves a learning environment that works for them — but finding alternatives can feel overwhelming.
A Different Kind of Public School
Charter schools exist because your child deserves a choice.
In 2011, Maine passed a charter school law to give families like yours real alternatives within the public school system. Charter schools are free, public schools — open to everyone, with no tuition and no selective admissions. They're simply designed to do things differently.
Community Regional Charter School was Maine's first elementary charter school, opening in 2012 with just 60 learners. Today, we serve over 400 students in Pre-K through 12 across three campuses in Skowhegan and Cornville — and we're still growing because families keep choosing us.
We understand.
We know what it's like to watch your child come home from school without that spark. We started this school because we believe learning should be personal, not one-size-fits-all. Your child's education is too important for "good enough."
You can trust us.
We've been doing this since 2012. Over 50 full-time staff across three academies. A customized learning model aligned with Maine's standards. Authorized and overseen by the Maine Charter School Commission. This is what we do — and we do it well.
The How It Works
Enrolling is simpler than you think.
Charter schools are free public schools — no tuition, no entrance exams. Here's how to get started:
Learn about CRCS
Explore our three academies and customized learning approach. Schedule a visit or attend an open house to see our classrooms in action.
Watch your child thrive
Your child joins a community where they learn at their own pace, have a voice in their education, and are known by name by every adult in the building.
"Is this really the only option?"
Every child deserves a learning environment that works for them — but finding alternatives can feel overwhelming.
Give your child the education they deserve.
Enrollment is open for the upcoming school year. Seats are limited, and families across 11+ communities are already choosing CRCS.
Common questions about charter schools
Is a charter school really free?
Yes. Charter schools are public schools funded by the state of Maine. There is no tuition. Funding follows the student through the state's Essential Programs & Services (EPS) formula — the same way traditional public schools are funded.
Do charter schools pick their students?
No. Charter schools are open to everyone and cannot select students. If more families apply than there are available seats, a public lottery is held. Every child has an equal chance.
Is this a private school or a religious school?
Neither. CRCS is a public school, authorized by the Maine Charter School Commission and held to the same accountability standards as any public school in the state. It operates independently from the local district, which allows for innovative teaching methods and customized learning.
What grades and ages does CRCS serve?
CRCS serves learners from Pre-K through grade 12 across three academies: Creative Children's Academy (Pre-K–K), Dimensions Academy (K–8), and Overman Academy (grades 7–12).
Where can I learn more about Maine charter schools?
Visit the Maine Charter School Commission for official information, or the Maine Association for Charter Schools to learn about the nonprofit organization that helped bring public charter schools to Maine.