CMS is located in the Charlotte, North Carolina region and provides academic instruction, rigor and support each school day to more than 141,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade in 184 schools throughout the cities and towns of Mecklenburg County. CMS believes setting high standards for all students creates a greater opportunity for future success – in our communities, within the region and across our diverse and global society. As a result, CMS students are prepared to be leaders in a technologically savvy and globally competitive world each day.

CMS is proud of its diverse mix of students who represent 175 countries and speak 209 languages and dialects. In addition, CMS offers an extensive range of magnet programs in 71 of its schools to nurture students' talents who have interests and abilities in specific areas. CMS also educates, supports and meets the needs of students with learning and physical disabilities.

CMS is one of the largest employers in Mecklenburg County, with more than 20,000 teachers, support staff and administrators. In addition, CMS is fortunate to have tremendous support from Charlotte's corporate, faith and business communities and more than 50,000 mentors and volunteers that support learning and instruction in CMS classrooms. 

The public school system in Charlotte-Mecklenburg has a rich and intricate history. Built upon the efforts of many individuals who firmly believed in the importance of education to this community, public schools in this area have had a tremendous impact on the growth and economy of the region – as well as the thousands of individuals they have served.