Nashville, August 29, 2025
News Summary
The Tennessee Public Charter School Commission has approved the Rock Academy, a charter school specifically aimed at at-risk students, for the 2026-2027 academic year. This approval overturned previous denials from the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools Board, emphasizing the need for specialized educational institutions. The Rock Academy will offer a mastery-based learning model with a later start time to accommodate the unique challenges faced by its students, such as those in foster care or those who are chronically absent.
Nashville – The Tennessee Public Charter School Commission has approved the Rock Academy, a new charter school targeting at-risk students, for the 2026-2027 academic year. This decision follows a unanimous vote from the commission, which reversed the prior denials issued by the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) Board of Education regarding the academy’s application.
The Rock Academy is set to become Tennessee’s first public charter school specifically designed for students facing significant challenges, such as those in foster care or students who are chronically absent from school. The school aims to provide a tailored educational experience through a mastery-based learning model, allowing students to progress at their own pace while receiving individualized support.
One notable feature of the Rock Academy is its later start time of 9:30 a.m., which is two and a half hours later than most MNPS schools. This schedule aims to accommodate the needs of students who may benefit from additional sleep and a more flexible daily routine.
Despite the approval, the MNPS had previously expressed concerns regarding the Rock Academy’s approach, particularly the mastery-based learning model and the implications of the later start time. There were fears that these elements could lead to transportation issues and questioned the effectiveness in tackling chronic absenteeism.
Tess Stovall, the executive director of the Tennessee Public Charter School Commission, noted the necessity for specialized educational institutions that cater to the unique needs of at-risk students, especially in helping them transition from high school to graduation. Stovall highlighted the community support behind the academy and emphasized its alignment with state approval standards.
In a public hearing prior to the vote, the commission raised questions about the Rock Academy’s transportation logistics and its financial sustainability. However, the overwhelming support from the community and the proposal’s adherence to the approval criteria ultimately led to its acceptance.
In contrast, the commission voted 5-3 to uphold the MNPS’s denial of the Forge School’s amended application. The Forge School’s proposal was aimed at providing vocational education focusing on careers in architecture, construction, and engineering. However, there were significant concerns regarding the school’s financial stability, its capability to recruit specialized teachers, and provisions for supporting students with disabilities and English learners.
Supporters of the Forge School argued that it would address labor shortages in Tennessee’s construction sector, yet doubts about the financial planning and operational feasibility led to the commission’s decision against its approval.
Background on Charter School Applications
The process for establishing a charter school in Tennessee involves multiple levels of approval, beginning with local school boards. In this case, the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools Board initially denied both the start and amended applications from the Rock Academy in April and June, respectively. The subsequent successful appeal to the Tennessee Public Charter School Commission reflects a significant shift in the oversight of charter schools in the state and highlights the importance placed on educational opportunities for at-risk populations.
Key Features of the Rock Academy
- Target Population: At-risk students, especially those in foster care or chronically absent
- Learning Model: Mastery-based education allowing for individualized pacing
- Start Time: 9:30 a.m., two and a half hours later than typical MNPS schools
- Community Support: Significant backing indicated in the proposal
FAQs
What is the purpose of the Rock Academy?
The Rock Academy is designed to provide tailored educational experiences for at-risk students, helping them overcome challenges such as absenteeism and lack of support.
When will the Rock Academy open?
The Rock Academy is set to commence operations in the 2026-2027 academic year.
What is unique about the Rock Academy’s educational approach?
It employs a mastery-based learning model, which allows students to progress at their own speed with personalized support, catering to individual learning needs.
Why was the Forge School denied?
The Forge School application was denied due to concerns regarding financial stability, teacher recruitment, and lack of support for students with disabilities and English learners.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Rock Academy | Forge School |
|---|---|---|
| Target Population | At-risk students | Students interested in architecture, construction, and engineering |
| Learning Model | Mastery-based | Vocational education focus |
| Start Time | 9:30 a.m. | N/A |
| Community Support | Significant | Uncertain |
| Financial Stability | Approved | Concerns raised |
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Additional Resources
- Tennessean: Nashville Rock Academy Charter School Approved
- Wikipedia: Charter School
- Main Street Media TN: First-of-its-Kind Charter School Approved
- Google Search: Rock Academy Charter School
- Washington Examiner: Commission Approves First Charter School in Tennessee
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- News Channel 5: Nashville Charter School Will Prepare Students for Nursing Careers
- Google News: Tennessee Charter Schools
Author: HERE Nashville
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