MNPS honored with ACT Policy Exemplar award; student art exhibit and new album planned

MNPS honored with ACT Policy Exemplar award; student art exhibit and new album planned Metro Nashville Public Schools leaders told the board the district received a 2025 ACT Policy Exemplar award and highlighted a student art gallery and forthcoming student music album as evidence of expanded arts programming. The recognition and arts initiatives matter because they reflect district attention to college and career readiness alignment and district arts programming, which the district said supports student voice and identity. Dr. Battle told the board MNPS was honored at the ACT Summit as a 2025 ACT Policy Exemplar for its K–12 ACT strategic plan and alignment work. Board members and staff recognized leaders involved in the work, including Chief Ronita Perry, Dr. David Williams, Dr. Matt Nelson and Mary Cook. The board was shown student artwork on display at the Support Hub; Dr. Battle said more than 175 students have pieces in the gallery. The district also announced an upcoming student album, I Believe, I Belong, recorded during a songwriting summit, and teased a new initiative called Vision the Arts that will expand music, visual arts, dance and theater opportunities across MNPS. District staff and board members praised the work of the visual and performing arts office and recognized Director Franklin Willis and his team. No formal board vote accompanied the arts announcements; they were presented as recognitions and program development. Quote from the meeting: • Dr. Battle: "MNPS was honored as a 2025 ACT Policy Exemplar." (announcement of award) • Dr. Battle: "Please, please, please, y'all don't wanna miss this. Be on the lookout for [the album] coming soon." (about the student album) District leaders said the album release and Vision the Arts rollout will be publicized in coming weeks.