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CHARLOTTE -- A historic school house, established in the 1800's in Charlotte, will soon be brought back to life. Three parents have transformed the Historic Croft Schoolhouse building into their own private school.

Cheryl Demers said she always wanted her children to grow up in a private, community school. But when she and two other families found themselves bumped off a waiting list after only one year in Cornelius, she said they had nowhere to turn.

"Out of necessity we needed to start a new school. So, here we are today,'' said Demers.

Pioneer Springs will open in the fall, offering kindergarten and first grade. The founders said it is not your average community school and certainly has something special.

"I strongly encourage people to come in and look at the building because talking to us on the phone doesn't do it any justice. You have to come in here and feel that magic," said Erin McDonald.

Charlotte's Historic Croft Schoolhouse building was established in 1890 and now, for the first time since the 1930's, the building will become a school again. For some parents like Katherine Quinn, stripping the education process back down to the basics is what it's all about.

"The philosophy of this kind of school, the basic school, high parental involvement, natural play, the beautiful building and creative learning, establishing self-esteem and independence, all of that stuff is really important to me,'' said Quinn.

With plans of adding higher grades each year and eventually hopes of becoming a charter school, the three founders have a lot on their plate.

But for now, Demers said they're taking it a day at a time and focusing on what's important, the children.

"I think this type of school is right for every child. Perhaps not every parent, but come visit us and I think you'll find this is a great place to be," said Demers.

Pioneer Springs Community School will hold an open house later this month. It will take place Aug. 14 at 7 p.m. The school's address is 9200 Bob Beatty Rd. in Charlotte.