NORTHERN CALIFORNIA (MPG) - Connections Academy at Gateway, a tuition-free online charter school within Community Collaborative Charter School and part of Gateway Community Charters, is now enrolling grades K–12 for the 2026-27 academic year. The program is open to students living in Amador, Contra Costa, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Sutter and Yolo counties.

Connections Academy at Gateway uses the nationally recognized Connections Academy program to deliver a high‑quality, standards‑based education fully online. In partnership with Community Collaborative Charter School, the school combines California‑credentialed teachers, a rigorous curriculum and purpose‑built technology tools to create a personalized learning experience focused on academic success and student growth.

Designed for students who benefit from individualized support, Connections Academy at Gateway provides a high-quality educational experience that keeps students motivated and engaged with a strong circle of support and a deep sense of belonging while meeting California state standards. The school’s team of supportive and experienced educators, specially trained in online instruction, establish meaningful connections with students helping them achieve their full potential and reach their goals.

Beyond core academics and daily engagement, students have access to engaging electives as well as virtual clubs, field trips, events and activities throughout the school year, helping foster a sense of connection and belonging. The flexible structure also gives students the opportunity to pursue interests outside of school, such as athletics, arts, community service or other passions.

Middle and high school students benefit from Connections Academy’s College and Career Readiness offerings, which help students explore potential career paths and build durable skills such as leadership, critical thinking and teamwork. Through career exploration and early networking opportunities, students gain confidence and direction as they prepare for the future.

“With open enrollment now underway for the next school year, we’re excited to invite families into a flexible, supportive learning environment that meets students where they are,” said Kaela Vermeulen, principal at Connections Academy at Gateway. “Our online model allows teachers to build strong relationships with students and provide personalized guidance, while giving learners the freedom to pursue their interests and stay engaged academically. Our goal is to help students grow with confidence and feel prepared for what’s next.”

Connections Academy at Gateway will serve approximately 300 students in grades K–12 during the 2026-27 school 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.

Enrollment for the 2026–27 school year is now open for grades K–12. Families interested in learning more about the flexible virtual learning model are encouraged to attend an online information session to learn more, ask questions and discover if Connections Academy at Gateway is the right fit for their student. For more information, visit www.ConnectionsAcademy.com/California-Gateway-Online-School or call 1-833-591-0251.

About Connections Academy at Gateway

Connections Academy at Gateway is a tuition-free, online public charter school program for K-12 students residing in the Northern California region in Amador, Contra Costa, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Sutter and Yolo counties. In partnership with Community Collaborative Charter School, the school uses a proven core model of virtual learning, the nationally recognized Connections Academy program, which is accredited by Cognia, formerly AdvancED. True to our name, we believe meaningful connections drive better academic outcomes, so we build a strong circle of support that unites students, families, and educators. We create a high-quality educational experience that helps keep students engaged in a safe learning environment. Beyond academics, our teachers focus on building fundamental life skills, partnering with families to help students learn how they learn best. Here, students gain the skills needed to thrive in the real world by becoming resourceful and resilient. For more information, call 1-833-591-0251 or visit www.ConnectionsAcademy.com/California-Gateway-Online-School.

About Gateway Community Charters

Community Collaborative Charter School is part of Gateway Community Charter Schools, an educational organization that serves students and families in Sacramento and Yolo counties. Gateway Community Charters opened its first charter schools in 2003 and has grown from one charter school and approximately 320 students to nine schools (over 22 locations) serving over 5,848 students today. Gateway Community Charters is proud to provide quality public school choice options to families in the Sacramento region. For more information, contact the Gateway Community Center offices at 1-916-286-1900 or visit www.gcccharters.org.