Nashville, TN, September 12, 2025
News Summary
McGavock High School will introduce an Early College Business program in January 2026, enabling students to earn an associate degree from Nashville State Community College while completing their high school diploma. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities in business fields such as administration, finance, and marketing, and will begin enrollment this fall.
Nashville, TN: McGavock High School to Launch Early College Business Program in January 2026
McGavock High School is set to introduce a new Early College Business program starting January 2026, allowing students to simultaneously earn an associate degree from Nashville State Community College while completing their high school diploma. This initiative aims to provide students with greater access and opportunities in pursuing careers across various business-related fields such as business administration, finance, economics, management, marketing, and hospitality.
Enrollment for this program will begin this fall, offering students a chance to get an early head start on their college education. This addition was announced jointly by the MNPS Superintendent and the Nashville State President during a recent event at McGavock High School.
Details of the Program
The Early College Business program is part of a broader initiative to enhance educational pathways for high school students. It builds upon the existing dual enrollment courses successfully implemented in other schools throughout the district. With support from the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, the program emphasizes the need for workforce-ready skill training to prepare students for the job market effectively.
McGavock High School will become the sixth zoned MNPS high school to establish an Early College program, joining similar initiatives at Whites Creek, Glencliff, Cane Ridge, Maplewood, and Pearl-Cohn. The programs at these schools have shown positive results, with several students graduating with both a high school diploma and an associate degree.
Positive Outcomes from Similar Programs
Notably, at Whites Creek, 21 students graduated with an associate degree alongside their high school diploma in May 2025. Similarly, 32 students from the Early College High School at Nashville State’s White Bridge campus achieved the same this past spring. This campus has received accolades, including being named a National Blue Ribbon School for its performance and effectiveness.
Background Context
The Better Together partnership between MNPS and Nashville State, initiated in 2020, aims to enhance postsecondary success rates in Davidson County by aligning high school coursework with college degrees. This collaborative approach focuses on meeting workforce demands and educational needs, thereby preparing students more effectively for their future careers.
As Tennessee continues to emphasize the importance of education and workforce readiness, the Early College Business program at McGavock High School represents a significant step toward ensuring students are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in a competitive job market.
Conclusion
The implementation of the Early College Business program can potentially transform the educational landscape at McGavock High School and positively impact students’ futures by providing essential training and qualifications for careers in business.
FAQ
What is the Early College Business program?
The Early College Business program allows high school students to earn both their high school diploma and an associate degree from Nashville State Community College simultaneously, beginning in January 2026.
When does enrollment begin?
Enrollment for the program will start this fall.
What fields will the program cover?
The program will focus on careers in business administration, finance, economics, management, marketing, and hospitality.
Which schools are participating in the Early College initiative?
McGavock High School will be the sixth zoned MNPS high school participating, joining Whites Creek, Glencliff, Cane Ridge, Maplewood, and Pearl-Cohn.
What outcomes have other schools achieved with similar programs?
Previous programs have resulted in numerous students graduating with both high school diplomas and associate degrees, demonstrating high success rates.
Program Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Start Date | January 2026 |
| Enrollment Period | This Fall |
| Associated College | Nashville State Community College |
| Career Fields Covered | Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Management, Marketing, Hospitality |
| Participating Schools | McGavock, Whites Creek, Glencliff, Cane Ridge, Maplewood, Pearl-Cohn |
| Existing Program Success | Graduation rates with dual degrees at other MNPS schools |
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Additional Resources
- Pride Publishing Group: Early College Business Program at McGavock High School
- WSMV: Early College Business Program Launching at McGavock High School
- Fox17: $15 Million Grant for Magnet Programs in Nashville Schools
- Tennessean: Brick Church Middle Renamed for Judge Richard H. Dinkins
- News Channel 5: Four Middle Tennessee Schools Win National Blue Ribbon
- Wikipedia: Education in Tennessee
- Google Search: Early College Programs Tennessee
- Google Scholar: Early College Programs
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College
- Google News: McGavock High School Early College Program
Author: HERE Nashville
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