Schools in Saco
Saco's K-12 education structure runs genuinely distinct from most other Maine Tier A markets: Saco pays tuition to Thornton Academy rather than operating its own public high school.
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Learn moreA real, distinctive tuition arrangement
Saco pays approximately $18-19 million annually to Thornton Academy (an independent academy) to serve as its contracted public high school.
A real, current, unresolved 2026 contract dispute
A public dispute erupted in June 2026 over student-transfer authority and contract length, with only a tentative one-year extension in place while a new five-year deal is negotiated.
Confirm current status directly
Families should confirm the current, resolved status of this contract directly with the Saco School Department before relying on Thornton Academy's continued role.
Key takeaways
- Saco pays Thornton Academy (~$18-19M annually) rather than operating its own public high school.
- A real, unresolved 2026 contract dispute over transfer authority and terms remains unsettled as of this pass.
- Confirm the current status of the Thornton Academy contract directly before relocating with school-age children.
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