Schools are places or systems for learning or education and may be physical locations composed of a building or a campus that includes multiple buildings. Schools may also be virtual or online institutions that offer educational experiences and degrees. Schools are usually physical locations for children in grades 1-12, as well as kindergarten and pre-kindergarten (pre-K) classes.
In Maine, schools are recognized as institutions for education, serving various grade levels from pre-kindergarten (pre-K) through 12th grade. These schools can be traditional brick-and-mortar buildings where students attend in person, or they can be virtual schools offering online education. Maine's Department of Education oversees the regulation and accreditation of schools within the state, ensuring they meet specific standards for curriculum, teacher certification, and student performance. Public schools in Maine are funded by a combination of local property taxes, state funds, and federal grants, and they are required to provide free education to all students. Maine also has private schools, which may have different accreditation processes and funding sources. Additionally, the state supports various forms of school choice, including charter schools and school voucher programs, which allow for alternative educational opportunities outside of the traditional public school system.