Nashville, TN, August 29, 2025
News Summary
Brick Church Middle School has been renamed Judge Richard H. Dinkins Middle School to honor the late civil rights leader and judge. A dedication ceremony celebrated Dinkins’ significant legacy in promoting educational equity within Nashville’s school system. The school aims to continue Dinkins’ mission by integrating his values into its educational practices, while also offering programs that enhance student achievement and diversity.
Nashville, TN—Brick Church Middle School has officially been renamed Judge Richard H. Dinkins Middle School in honor of the late civil rights leader and judge, who significantly influenced educational equity within Nashville’s school system. The school held a dedication ceremony on August 2, 2025, on Brick Church Pike in East Nashville, marking a new chapter in its history as it integrates the legacy of Dinkins into its educational mission.
The renaming honors Dinkins for his crucial role in the desegregation of Nashville schools and his long-standing commitment to civil rights advocacy. Serving as the lead attorney in Nashville’s school desegregation case, Dinkins worked tirelessly to address educational disparities and fight discrimination throughout his career.
Key figures at the dedication ceremony included Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell, Metro Nashville Schools Director Adrienne Battle, and Principal Robyn Beard-Tillman, who all emphasized the importance of honoring Dinkins and embodying his principles in the school’s operations.
Dinkins, who passed away in 2023 at age 71, made history in 2008 when he became the first Black judge appointed to the Tennessee Court of Appeals, and he continued to serve on the court until his retirement in 2022. His extensive legal career included working on numerous high-profile civil rights cases, solidifying his reputation as a key figure in advocating for social justice.
In recent developments, Judge Richard H. Dinkins Middle School rejoined Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) in the 2023 school year after functioning as a charter school within the Achievement School District. The institution is now classified as a magnet school, receiving federal funding through the Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP) aimed at enhancing academic achievement and increasing diversity within the student body.
The school’s current demographic reveals a student population that is 80 percent Black, and it features an early college magnet program that allows students to earn college credits while still in high school. Dinkins’ legacy is intended to inspire current and future students, instilling a belief in their own potential to enact change and advocate for others.
Details regarding Dinkins’ early life reveal a profound connection to Nashville’s civil rights movement. He began first grade during the era of school desegregation, influenced by his father, Reverend Charles L. Dinkins, who served as a pastor and activist. His educational journey included graduation from Denison University and Vanderbilt Law School in 1977.
His cousin, who attended the ceremony, spoke about Dinkins’ personal experiences and his belief in education as a powerful vehicle for overcoming barriers. The decision to rename the school was unanimously approved by the school board in March 2025, and new signage reflecting the school’s name change is already in place in anticipation of the upcoming school year beginning August 5, 2025.
Through this renamed educational institution, Dinkins’ contributions to civil rights, commitment to educational equity, and inspiring legacy will continue to resonate with students, faculty, and the community at large.
FAQ
What is the new name of Brick Church Middle School?
The school has been renamed Judge Richard H. Dinkins Middle School.
Who was Judge Richard H. Dinkins?
Judge Richard H. Dinkins was a civil rights leader and the first Black judge on the Tennessee Court of Appeals, known for his work in desegregating Nashville schools and advocating for educational equity.
When was the dedication ceremony for the renaming held?
The dedication ceremony took place on August 2, 2025.
What programs does Judge Richard H. Dinkins Middle School offer?
The school offers an early college magnet program that provides students the opportunity to earn college credits.
What is the current demographic makeup of the student body?
The student body is currently composed of 80 percent Black students.
Key Features of Judge Richard H. Dinkins Middle School
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Name | Judge Richard H. Dinkins Middle School |
| Dedication Ceremony Date | August 2, 2025 |
| Current Student Demographics | 80% Black |
| Programs Offered | Early college magnet program |
| School Classification | Magnet school |
| Federal Funding Source | Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP) |
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Author: HERE Nashville
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