07/28/26 MNPS Board of Education

The Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) Board of Education held a meeting on July 28, 2026, which included extensive discussions on charter school applications and district policies. The board reviewed and voted on four amended Newstart charter school applications: Nashville School of Excellence, Empowerment Academy, the Gates School, and Music City Academy. Each application was denied primarily due to concerns about fiscal impact on existing schools, insufficient evidence of unique educational models, and operational capacity. The board emphasized the significant negative financial effects these new schools would have on MNPS, including potential reductions in staffing and programming at existing schools. Additionally, the board discussed and amended policy 5.303 regarding personal and professional leave, clarifying the intent to set minimum leave days without capping them. The meeting also featured updates on transportation changes for the upcoming school year and recognition of partnerships and student achievements. Overall, the meeting focused heavily on procurement-related decisions concerning charter school approvals and budgetary impacts on the district.