MCCLELLAN, CA (MPG) – Connections Academy at Gateway, a program within Community Collaborative Charter School that is part of Gateway Community Charters, is a new tuition-free online charter school program that will begin operating for the 2025-2026 school year. Through this partnership, the online program will provide innovative, high-quality, standards-based educational opportunities for all students. This program will be open to students in grades K-10 living in Amador, Contra Costa, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Sutter, and Yolo counties. Connections Academy at Gateway is now enrolling for the 2025-2026 school year.

Connections Academy at Gateway will offer families the nationally recognized Connections Academy program and award-winning curriculum. In collaboration with Community Collaborative Charter Schools, the online program will combine California-credentialed teachers, a rigorous, standards-aligned curriculum, technology tools, and social engagement to create a student-focused learning experience.

A common need expressed by many families is the desire for greater flexibility in the learning environment. Connections Academy at Gateway will meet the needs of students who will benefit from the flexibility to fit school into their lives and seek academic challenges in line with state standards with a fully online program. Teachers are trained to deliver instruction and provide individualized support to meet each student’s academic needs and learning preferences in a virtual environment. A parent, or another adult “Learning Coach,” will play a key role alongside the California-credentialed teachers to set daily routines, monitor student progress in the home, and track attendance. Learning Coaches will be trained and supported by robust resources and communication tools designed to help families succeed.

The new online program will provide students access to core classes and engaging electives, as well as virtual clubs, field trips, events, and activities throughout the year. The flexible schedule allows students time to play sports, explore art, volunteer, or pursue their passions outside of the virtual classroom.

Families will benefit from Connections Academy’s College and Early Career Readiness program for middle and high school students equipping them with durable skills like leadership, critical thinking, and teamwork. Students can participate in career exploration and industry networking opportunities to build confidence, make connections, and find direction to prepare for their future.

“Connections Academy at Gateway is an exciting new partnership bringing the nationally recognized Connections Academy program to students in the Northern California region through Gateway Community Charters,” said Dr. Donna Hutchison, Vice President for Educational Partnerships in Pearson’s Virtual Learning division, which delivers Connections Academy online learning solutions. “For over two decades, Gateway Community Charters has been a leader in providing high-quality, innovative education, and this collaboration expands those opportunities by offering a flexible, tuition-free online learning option tailored to self-motivated, tech-savvy students. Together, we are committed to empowering families with a personalized approach to education that fosters academic success and community connection.”

Connections Academy at Gateway will serve a maximum of 500 students in grades K-10 during its first year. As a public-school program, there are no fees or tuition to attend Connections Academy at Gateway and all students are required to meet the same academic standards and take the same assessments as traditional public school students.

“We are thrilled to introduce Connections Academy at Gateway, a program of our Community Collaborative Charter School, by expanding our commitment to providing high-quality, innovative education options for students across the Sacramento region and beyond,” said Jason Sample, CEO and Superintendent of Gateway Community Charters. “By partnering with Connections Academy, we are offering families a flexible, personalized online learning experience that empowers students with the skills and support they need to succeed in an ever-evolving world.”

Interested families are encouraged to visit the website at connectionsacademy.com/california-gateway-online-school/ or call 1-833-591-0251 to learn more.

About Connections Academy at Gateway

Connections Academy at Gateway is a tuition-free, online public charter school for K–10 students in Northern California, serving nine counties. Launching in the 2025–2026 school year in partnership with Community Collaborative Charter School, it offers a high-quality, accredited virtual education through the nationally recognized Connections Academy program. The school emphasizes academic success, life skills, and personalized support to help students thrive and become confident, resilient learners. Learn more at connectionsacademy.com/california-gateway-online-school.

About Gateway Community Charters

Community Collaborative Charter School is part of Gateway Community Charters, which has served families in Sacramento and Yolo counties since 2003. Now operating nine schools across 22+ locations, the organization provides quality public school choices to over 5,800 students. Learn more at gcccharters.org or call 916-286-5129.