Nashville Approved Two New Public Charter Schools
Families in Nashville can expect two new charter schools to open for enrollment by late 2027.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Secondary Education
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The Tennessee Public Charter School Commission unanimously approved two new public charter schools in Nashville following successful state appeals. Music City Academy and The Gate School have received 10-year authorizations to serve local students.
Why it matters
The commission's decision adds two new options for Nashville families seeking public charter education. These schools will operate under long-term oversight to fulfill their specific academic missions.
The Tennessee Public Charter School Commission granted 10-year operating authorizations to Music City Academy and The Gate School. These two schools moved forward after unanimous votes, while the commission simultaneously upheld the denial of two other applicants.
The players
Tennessee Public Charter School Commission
A state authority established in 2019 that oversees and authorizes public charter schools across Tennessee.
Kevin Dyson
The founder of Music City Academy, which was recently authorized by the state commission.
The details
The commission acts as a final appeal authority for charter applications in the state, evaluating proposals based on detailed recommendations from its executive director. Once approved, the schools function as public institutions that must meet specific academic and operational standards over their 10-year term. Music City Academy, founded by Kevin Dyson, and The Gate School will now move into their respective launch phases.
Timeline
October 9, 2026: The Tennessee Public Charter School Commission held its quarterly meeting.
August 2027: Music City Academy is scheduled to open its doors to students.
Fall 2027: The Gate School plans to begin operations for its inaugural academic year.
The Home Front
This expansion of local school options follows the regulatory framework established by the commission's 2019 founding mandate. These authorizations signal a shift in the local public education landscape as new schools are integrated into the city's existing academic structure.
Families interested in these new options should monitor upcoming enrollment timelines as the schools prepare for their 2027 openings. Parents may also check the commission's official site to track development milestones for both the Music City Academy and The Gate School.
The takeaway
Nashville has gained two new state-authorized charter schools that will begin classes by late 2027. Families should keep an eye on official announcements for enrollment deadlines as these schools develop their faculty and facilities.
Further reading
You can learn more about local educational options on the Nashville Secondary Education page.
More information
For more information on these school approvals, visit the Tennessee Public Charter School Commission portal.
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