Upgrade Your Education

From early childhood through higher education and beyond, Greater Houlton offers a range of learning opportunities in a supportive, close-knit community. Whether you’re enrolling in public school, exploring homeschool options, or pursuing a college degree or career training, Houlton is a place where education grows with you.

RSU 29 Public Schools

RSU 29 is preparing ALL learners for a Changing World and encourages the growth, high aspirations, and quality standards for its students and staff. We respect responsible risk-taking and decision-making, value individual differences, and recognize that learning never ends. RSU 29 takes pride in connecting with our community and in offering a variety of co curricular programs and multiple educational pathways. Pathways include traditional in person instruction in either Houlton Elementary School, Southside School, or Houlton Middle High School. As educational opportunities evolve, RSU 29 offers Shire Connections online program, homeschool connections, college courses, CTE classes, and extended learning opportunities. Alternative education is provided by a regional agreement through Summit Academy and an additional program through Transitions Learning Center, both housed at our Summit building. 

Higher Education in Houlton

Houlton is connected to educational opportunities at the post secondary level and beyond. The University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) has offices in the Community Living Association Building at 18 Military Street. Connect with UMPI for Associate and Bachelors programs in multiple areas. Northern Maine Community College (NMCC) offers opportunities through a partnership with Houlton Hodgdon Adult and Community Education (HHACE), located at 56 Military Street in our Summit building. NMCC offers degrees and certifications in liberal studies, healthcare, and a multitude of programs in the trades. Are you ready for a career change or need help going back to school? Then contact the team at HHACE to learn more about preparing for your future with free counseling and programs to expand your opportunities. There are also workforce training and certificate programs through HHACE. The network of educational programs are located close to our historic downtown.

Career Technical Education (CTE)


Region Two School of Applied Technology is a proud member of Maine’s network of career and technical education (CTE) schools. We offer an focused, career-oriented education in our variety of CTE programs.

Private Schools

In addition to our great public schools, Houlton also hosts two private schools, including the Greater Houlton Christian Academy, a PK-12 Christian school, as well as the Carleton Project, a private alternative school.

Thriving Homeschool Community


Houlton is home to a vibrant and growing homeschooling community, offering families flexibility, support, and connection. Local co-ops, enrichment programs, and access to public resources like the Cary Library and online learning tools help create a well-rounded educational experience. Whether you’re new to homeschooling or a seasoned parent educator, you’ll find a welcoming network in the Greater Houlton area.

Cary Library

Founded in 1904, Cary Library is a staple of Houlton Maine and offers a wide variety of materials for research, education and entertainment. Our mission is to strengthen our community by enhancing and contributing to individual knowledge and experiences, literacy development and lifelong learning through print, electronic resources, cultural activities, programs and services.

Having grown up in Houlton I didn’t really appreciate how special the schools were until I was living in the city and raising my own family. Once I had 3 children of my own I moved back from Boston to give my kids the same experience I had. A commitment to education in a community that values the individual talents of each learner. I only wish we had moved here sooner.

- Fred Grant

Surrounding Area Schools

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