Metro Nashville’s Public Schools
Metro Nashville’s public schools are dedicated to nurturing every student’s growth and success. Our commitment is to ensure that every student is known and valued for the individual they are. Our talented teachers and staff provide personalized learning experiences that encourage and excite students; making sure they are on the path to future success.
In a remarkable year for Metro Schools:
- Exceeding Goals: Every grade level has shown improvement in all subjects on TCAP achievement tests.
- Exceeding the State: MNPS exceeded the state’s growth year-over-year growth in all four TCAP categories.
- National Recognition: MNPS is one of two urban districts ranked in the top 10
- Pre-K Excellence: Our nationally recognized Pre-K program builds foundational skills for our youngest learners. Students are encouraged to play and explore as they learn.
- Elementary Basics: From STEAM (science, technology, English, arts and mathematics) to gifted education, our elementary schools provide hands-on experiences.
- Middle School Exploration: Students explore interests and expand academic skills, preparing for high school.
- High School Success: Students pursue career pathways and earn industry certifications, graduating ready for college and career.
Experience MNPS: Visit mnps.org/experience today!
TIP: Through our Academies of Nashville, every student in Nashville’s 12 zoned high schools can choose from 35 academies, supported by more than 360 community partners. Local colleges and universities offer dual credit, dual enrollment, and industry credentials to help students become college or career ready. Whether interested in healthcare, engineering, or another field, these academies enhance the high school experience and prepare students with valuable skills they can use in any career.
Tennessee Tech University
Students come to Tennessee Tech University to live bold, fearless, confident and kind lives. Providing majors for today’s top jobs, Tech produces career-ready graduates known for their creativity, tenacity and analytical approach.
The university offers more than 200 majors in nine academic colleges, with bachelor’s masters and doctorate level degrees. Tech faculty and staff are focused on putting students first and helping students express themselves through innovation and problem solving. Most importantly, students can make a difference immediately with their ideas and passions, with a community of support to help along the way. With hundreds of clubs and activities,Tech students design the future in virtual reality labs and build new technology, are members of professional organizations and honor societies, join fraternities and sororities, and engage with a wide variety of faith- based and academic clubs.
Trailblazers, student tour guides who can share a view of the university from a genuine perspective, are ready to show you how you can Live Wings Up. Schedule a campus visit with a Trailblazer to see Tech for yourself at www.tntech.edu/visit.
Benton Hall Academy
Since 1977, Benton Hall Academy has been educating students who are exceptional learners. We take the time to help students reach their full potential in a positive, academically challenging environment. Benton Hall proudly accepts the Tennessee Department of Education IEA (Individual Education Account) and the Educational Savings Account (ESA).
We provide:
- Small Student to Teacher Ratio
- Enrichment Program
- AdvancED AccreditedEmphasis on effective learning with an engaging curriculum
- Celebration of diversity
Benton Hall Academy caters to students with unique needs. With a dedicated and supportive staff, the academy strives to create a nurturing and inclusive environment for all students. The staff at Benton Hall Academy goes above and beyond to support their students academically, emotionally, and socially. They are trained in working with individuals with unique educational needs and are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide personalized attention and care.
Brentwood Academy
“It’s another great day at BA!” These words are often spoken on the Brentwood Academy campus, and it’s true! At BA you’ll find experienced, compassionate faculty who share expertise in their field, and, most importantly, a commitment to our students in a Christ-centered environment. Inspired by our mission to nurture and challenge each whole person, – body, mind, and spirit – to the glory of God, BA faculty, staff, and coaches are committed to help your student discover their gifts and talents, develop confidence and initiative, gain knowledge, and build their faith.
Want to learn more about Brentwood Academy?
Our Admission team can’t wait to meet you! Join us on a tour where you’ll learn more about the history and mission of Brentwood Academy. You’ll see a glimpse of BA students engaged in various activities throughout our exceptional facilities. Our tours are an excellent opportunity to explore the BA experience and ask questions along the way.Tours last about one hour and are offered every weekday. Visit BrentwoodAcademy.com/starthere to book a tour.
Davidson Academy
At Davidson Academy, our mission is to prepare students for college, life, and eternity. From preschool through high school graduation, Davidson Academy offers a strong Christian foundation for college preparation by nurturing spiritual, intellectual, physical, and social growth in an interdenominational setting with 100% college placement. Providing our students with a wide variety of exceptional opportunities, they are challenged to excel academically in the classroom, athletically on the field, and by expressing creativity while performing on stage.
Davidson Academy celebrates a tradition of providing a safe, Christ-centered community where students are inspired to be compassionate and creative in a small class environment, build relationships with God and with each other, and become servant leaders and all God intended.
Experience the Davidson Academy difference by joining us for a private campus tour. Contact our Director of Admissions, Lori Trew, at 615-565-0219 or via email at ltrew@davidsonacademy.com to set up your tour.
TIP: Our 65-acre campus has expanded our footprint to include a brand-new preschool program serving children from six weeks old to Junior Kindergarten, projected to open January 2025. In addition, Davidson Academy has elevated the student experience through the introduction of a cutting-edge STEAM-focused curriculum, the commitment to our Middle School renovations, along with other project upgrades like a revamped weight room, the addition of LED lights on the baseball field, new dugouts on the soccer field, a new indoor softball facility, and the creation of a new football practice field.
Ensworth
Envision a vibrant, dynamic community committed to the well-being of its students while In Search of Truth. Ensworth provides a challenging program within a loving environment, creating an inspiring and joyful place where students develop the academic agility and self-confidence they need to grow and thrive. Ensworth believes awakening and cultivating intellectual curiosity is the key to developing lifelong learners. Our curriculum engages students actively, encouraging individual approaches to exploration and understanding. Students have opportunities to discover and develop their talents inside and outside the classroom, and they flourish in an environment where their unique skills and interests are respected and nurtured. At Ensworth, students are more than scholars, athletes, and artists—they are courageous and compassionate global citizens empowered to make a difference.
TIP: Learn more about our K-12, coeducational program at www.ensworth.com.
Harding Academy
Harding Academy is a coeducational, nonsectarian day school serving pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. With a focus on rigorous academics taught by nurturing teachers, Harding Academy students thrive within a uniquely balanced and motivating environment. At the heart of the Harding Academy advantages is our fundamental commitment to the PreK-8 structure, which supports every student’s social, emotional, and academic needs in a developmentally appropriate manner.
We seek to serve a diverse community of families searching for the optimal pathways to some of the nation’s most challenging public and independent high schools, and who share our mission to foster thoughtful, lifelong learners and responsible, caring citizens. We encourage any interested family to contact our admissions office at 615-356-2974 or email admissionsoffice@hardingacademy.org to schedule a tour. We also offer a few facts and figures that well represent the success of our school and our students:
- Harding Academy serves 350 families from 24 zip codes.
- The science curriculum features robotics, programming, physics, chemistry, organic gardening, and four science labs.
- At the middle-school level, Harding offers twenty-one competitive team sports with a no-cut policy.
- Harding Academy produces two full-scale theater programs each year and has attained national status with its award-winning art program.
Harding Academy strives to inspire the mind and nurture the spirit in all we do. Our PreK-8 model provides the optimal environment in which to strike this balance. We serve each and every student with a whole-child approach and through challenging and developmentally appropriate curriculum, character education, and extracurricular activities.
Harpeth Hall
You can always recognize a Harpeth Hall girl by her confidence, curiosity, and kindness. She eagerly seeks knowledge, raises her hand without fear, and listens with understanding. She embraces her strengths, knows that mistakes are learning opportunities, and leads with integrity.
At Harpeth Hall, a school for students in 5th through 12th grades, we know how girls learn best. In the classroom, every aspect of the educational experience is designed with girls in mind. From power tools to telescopes, students learn through doing as teachers create hands-on experiences that elevate concepts beyond the textbook and make lessons memorable. Our premier programs such as Winterim, SEEK, STEM Research, Global Scholars, and Public Purpose, foster global perspectives and encourage students to think beyond familiar boundaries. We value diversity of thought and cultivate respect for others’ views, creating a vibrant academic environment.
In the arts, students experience creative expression without limits. Our girls shine on stage as actors, screenwriters, and musicians. School publications feature original paintings, poetry, and prose that showcase artistic endeavors. Our students know they can become what they dream, inspired by our New York Times-bestselling writers, nationally recognized music podcast host, Academy Award-winning actress and entrepreneur, and Grammy-honored singer.
In athletics, girls at Harpeth Hall push themselves beyond their comfort zones and enjoy unforgettable experiences along the way. In the last two years, our teams have claimed state titles in cross country, lacrosse, riflery, rowing, soccer, and track and field — and two recent alumnae are Olympic swimmers. These achievements are a testament to the strength and confidence that every student at Harpeth Hall develops, preparing them for a lifetime of health and well-being.
TIP: For more than 150 years, Harpeth Hall has held true to the idea that girls deserve an excellent education full of purpose and possibilities. To learn more about Harpeth Hall, where girls and young women learn to think critically, lead confidently, and live honorably, visit HarpethHall.org.
Overbrook Catholic School
Overbrook Catholic School provides an excellent education for boys and girls in preschool-3 through sixth grade in a nurturing, Christ-centered environment.
Inspired by the life of St. Dominic, Overbrook Catholic educates children to seek and embrace the truth, fostering in them a personal encounter with Jesus Christ. Children are thus prepared in mind and heart to give joyful witness to the truth in their own lives. Beginning in the Montessori-inspired preschool, Overbrook Catholic has prepared students with a love for learning and formed leaders since 1936. Located on 83 acres, students excel in STEM, the gifted program, and the award-winning math, reading, and writing programs. Student life includes opportunities with art, athletics, band, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, clubs, community service, dance, forensics, languages, library, music, religious observances, student council, and tending to the school’s Beyond the Brook Farm. Named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education, Overbrook Catholic is home to outstanding faculty, and OCS students perform academically at a level above the national norm.
TIP: Want to see the Dominican Difference for yourself? There are many ways to join us on campus with more details available at overbrook.edu/admissions.
Lunch & Learn: Held on September 10th, October 8th, and November 12th from noon to 1 p.m., this is an informal event for prospective parents to meet key faculty and staff with lunch provided. Please register at overbrook.edu/lunch-and-learn.
Open House: Come visit Overbrook Catholic on Saturday, October 26th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. You will be able to ask questions of faculty, staff and parents, as well as tour the school. Please register at overbrook.edu/admissions/open-house.
Shadow Days: This experience provides the prospective student with a glimpse of what it is like to attend OCS. Please email the Admissions Office at striansea@overbrook.edu or call (615) 292-5134 x636 to schedule your child’s Shadow Day.
Parent Tours: If you desire a private tour of Overbrook Catholic School, please email the Admissions Office at striansea@overbrook.edu or call (615) 292-5134 x636.
St. Cecilia Academy
As Nashville’s oldest private school, St. Cecilia Academy is a Catholic, college preparatory school serving girls in grades 7 through 12. Since 1860, St. Cecilia has been providing a premier education for young women who have used their feminine genius to influence and shape their communities and the world as confident leaders. The school offers a rigorous, award-winning, liberal arts academic program beginning in the 7th grade that teaches students how to think critically and navigate our complex modern world. The St. Cecilia student has access to the arts, athletics,clubs,dance,debate,music,robotics,service,STEM,theater,travel,andmore. The dedicated faculty knows students by name, providing individual attention and helping each student to discover the woman God made her to be. St. Cecilia is unique, rooted in a vibrant Christ-centered environment marked by a nurturing community spirit. We invite you to learn more about St. Cecilia Academy and to visit our campus community.
TIP: Visit us and see what St. Cecilia Academy has to offer your daughter. You can learn more at stcecilia.edu.
Walk-In Wednesdays: An informal meet and greet with the SCA Admissions team and a tour of campus from noon to 1 p.m. Available any Wednesday that SCA is in session from September 11 through April 30. No registration is required. Admissions Preview Day: Hosted in October, this event provides an overview of the school, a chance to meet faculty, staff, students, and current parents, and a tour of campus. Please contact the Admissions office at admissions@stcecilia.edu to learn more.
Fireside Chat: Held on October 3rd, November 14th, and December 12th at noon, this is an informal event for prospective parents with lunch provided. Register at: stcecilia.edu/firesidechat.
Parent Tours: If you desire a personal tour of St. Cecilia Academy, please contact the Admissions office at admissions@stcecilia.edu.
Shadow Days: This experience provides the prospective student with a glimpse of what it is like to attend SCA. Email admissions@stcecilia.edu to schedule a Shadow Day!
Templeton Academy
Discover Templeton Academy, where students learn to pursue their Why to find what brings them joy and allows them to serve others. As an affordable independent private school in downtown Nashville, our core principles are Core Advisory, a social-emotional learning program where students explore ideas of self-reflection, identity, and community; Project-Based Learning, a philosophy of hands-on, student-driven learning by doing; and Field Work, our city-as-your-classroom model that asks students to explore our vibrant city and make real-time, real-world connections between life and learning. Templeton Academy is revolutionizing the Student experience by centering the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed for a life of curiosity and purpose. So what’s your Why? Come ask big questions and find meaningful answers at Templeton!
TIP: Student-driven education gives students the keys to their own learning. By asking big questions, embracing deep curiosity, and leaning into their personal interests, Templeton students craft an education that aligns directly with what’s most important to them. What matters most to you? Come find out how Templeton can help you find the answer!
Battle Ground Academy
BGA offers the most transformative, comprehensive educational experience in Franklin and across the greater Nashville area, providing academic challenge, igniting intellectual vigor, and developing integrity, honesty, and character in our pre-K through 12th grade students.
As an accredited independent school, we have the flexibility to adjust our curriculum to meet each BGA student where they are – academically and personally – and welcome them into a community of challenge, support, acceptance, and warmth.
In pre-K and Lower School, students joyfully connect learning with their world, fostering growth and creativity. Middle School students engage in rigorous courses in math, science, humanities, and the arts, focusing on critical thinking, collaboration, and leadership. Our Upper School prepares students for college and beyond, offering AP courses and concentrations in Entrepreneurial Leadership, STEM, Global Leadership, and Fine Arts, with 95% of the Class of 2024 admitted to one of their top three college choices.
TIP: Due to demand, interested families are encouraged to apply for admission by our first-round admission consideration deadlines on November 15 (Pre-K3 through junior kindergarten), December 15 (kindergarten), and January 15 (first grade and up). Learn more at battlegroundacademy.org/admissions.
Currey Ingram Academy
Currey Ingram Academy is an exemplary JK-12 day and boarding school that specializes in educating students with learning differences like ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and Dysgraphia. We understand that our students learn differently, so we teach differently. Through Individualized Learning Plans (ILPs), small class sizes, executive functioning support, and social-emotional training, we give students the tools to thrive and grow. Since 2002, the school has been located on an 83-acre campus in Brentwood, Tennessee, just miles from Nashville and Franklin. Families from 33 states and eight countries cite the school as their primary reason for moving to Tennessee.
Visit curreyingram.org to learn more.
TIP: Currey Ingram Academy is breaking ground on our cutting-edge Innovation, Design, Exploration, and Application (IDEA) Center, a space where innovation knows no bounds, where creativity intertwines seamlessly with technology, and where every student’s potential is unleashed. This isn’t just a campaign; it’s a declaration of our school’s ongoing commitment to revolutionizing education for students with learning differences. It will include a Design Lab, Robotics Lab, Artificial Intelligence/Virtual Reality space, and video/photo studio.
Episcopal School of Nashville
Episcopal School of Nashville is an inclusive 3K-6 independent school located in the heart of East Nashville. When students walk through our doors, they enter a place where the joy of learning and the spirit of discovery thrive!
At ESN, we create a foundation for learning that lasts a lifetime. It starts in our unique, play-based early childhood program where children’s natural curiosity is nurtured. As they progress through our lower and upper schools, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through a balance of traditional academics and project-based learning. Outside of the classroom, we offer a variety of special classes, clubs, sports, and community service opportunities to encourage each student to pursue their passions and develop new skills.
We’re proud to teach well-rounded individuals who are intellectually, spiritually, and responsibly engaged with the place, community, and world they call home. Now enrolling for the 2024-2025 school year.
Franklin Road Academy
Franklin Road Academy is a pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade coeducational independent school offering a challenging educational experience in an inclusive Christian community. FRA provides an excellent education within a collaborative learning environment, preparing students to attend the finest colleges and universities across the nation while also cultivating a concern for others within and beyond their own community. With innovative academic spaces like a DNA Lab and Innovation Lab, students are honing team-building, problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills in dynamic spaces as they become critical thinkers and leaders in pursuit of excellence.
FRA is big enough to offer students opportunities to discover and pursue their passions and small enough to know each family’s story. FRA fosters a healthy student experience with intentional class sizes that allow students to fully engage in the classroom while competing at a high athletic level or perfecting an art form. For more information, call our Admission Office at 615-832-8845 or visit www.franklinroadacademy.com.
TIP: Franklin Road Academy recently established the Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership to provide additional experiential and innovative learning opportunities for students. The curriculum and programs are designed to inspire students to pursue their passions, while equipping them with the skills required to chart their own path. With this innovative new program, upper school students will begin the entrepreneurship program by taking the finance and communications foundational skills course to strengthen core competencies and propel students into the incubator course.
Montgomery Bell Academy
Montgomery Bell Academy (MBA) is the oldest independent school for boys in Tennessee. Founded in 1867, MBA is home to 850 boys in grades 7-12. MBA offers young men an exemplary college preparatory experience in an inclusive community, assisting them to be “gentlemen, scholars, and athletes” and young men of wisdom and moral integrity who will make significant contributions to society.
Quick facts about MBA:
- Students from 50+ different zip codes and 70+ sending schools.
- 20% of students receive $3 million in need-based financial aid.
- 29 Advanced Placement courses offered.
- 30 National Merit recognized students and 164 AP Scholars.
- 200+ boys participate in school-funded exchanges.
- Nationally-recognized Visual and Performing Arts programs.
- 17 varsity sports competing at the highest level.
- 80+ different clubs and activities.
- 7 to 1 student/teacher ratio.
MBA is committed to building boys into great men who will make a difference in their communities. The best way to experience MBA is to come see it in person. We hope you will visit us, take a tour of the campus, and see first-hand this vibrant and caring community.
Saint Henry School
Saint Henry School provides a vibrant, faith-filled, academically rich school environment. Teachers challenge and support students to achieve their highest potential and seek to make all academic areas come to life in developmentally appropriate ways. In all grades, students engage in the core subjects of Religion, Math, Science, Literature, English, and Social Studies, thus continually deepening their comprehension of fundamental concepts and skills. Academic contests offered in almost every discipline (National History, Spelling and Geography Bees, Math and Science Olympiads, MTSU STEM Expo, Lego League, Middle Tennessee Vocal Association Contest, Mid-State Band Competition and Nashville Art Shows/Contests). Sports teams for all levels of play,
a spring drama production, forensics, scouts, and many other service and extracurricular opportunities. Full-time nurse practitioner, full- time security officer, school counselor, and a Resource Department for educational testing, guidance and instructional support. Before and aftercare are available.
TIP: “St. Henry’s is one of the best decisions we made for our daughter; because of the academic standards she was held to, she developed an advanced knowledge base, work ethic, and discipline that prepared her for the rigorous academic challenges in high school. We are proud to see her as humble, respectful, and encouraging of others; character traits developed within the St. Henry’s family that have continued to live strong.” Online parent review
Saint Ann School
Your child will soar at Saint Ann Catholic School because we are an environment infused with the love of Christ. Where your child’s uniqueness is encouraged as they pursue academic excellence, engage in service for others, and thrive in their pursuit for peace and justice. Saint Ann School serves approximately 215 students in grades PreK3 through 8th grade.
The best way to understand the unique qualities of a Saint Ann School education is to experience it first hand. Therefore, we suggest you schedule a personalized tour of our campus. At your school tour we will provide all registration information. Following your tour we are happy to schedule a shadow day for your student. This is a wonderful way for your child to experience life at Saint AnnSchool with his or her future classmates. Visit us online at www.saintannparish.com/school to learn more!
St. Paul Christian Academy
St. Paul Christian Academy is a co-educational, interdenominational, independent, elementary school (junior kindergarten to 6th grade). At St. Paul, we walk with parents to establish a permanent foundation for our students so that they might flourish by pursuing academic excellence, a passion for Christ, and an ever-deepening understanding of their call to be leaders who uniquely shape the world in which they live. We form this foundation by creating a place filled with childlike wonder where your child is known, loved, nurtured, and challenged to be his or her best.
We hold high expectations for our students, and our nurturing environment helps them meet those expectations to reach their highest potential. As a result, our students are well prepared for acceptance into the most competitive college-preparatory schools in Nashville. At the center of everything we do is our center pillar, passion for Christ; we desire all of our students to come to know and love God, understand his Word, and develop the wisdom, courage, and strength to walk in His ways.
We believe that God is calling our students to become Christian leaders in their homes, at their schools, in their future careers, and throughout their lives. We equip our students to understand Christian leadership, and we give them opportunities to practice leading; students lead chapel programs, help keep our campus clean, participate in service at every grade level, and mentor younger students in our buddy program. Additionally, in their capstone year, our sixth graders have new, daily opportunities to serve our school as they prepare to be leaders in their next schools and beyond.