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Commission approves Rock Academy appeal, overturning Metro Nashville denial
Summary
The Tennessee Public Charter School Commission voted to overturn Metro Nashville Public Schools’ denial of the Rock Academy, approving an opportunity‑school model focused on re‑engaging chronically absent ninth‑grade students.
The Tennessee Public Charter School Commission on Aug. 27 voted to overturn Metro Nashville Public Schools’ denial of the Rock Academy’s New Start amended application, approving the school to open as an “opportunity” charter focused on re‑engaging disconnected ninth‑grade students.
Executive Director Tess Stovall recommended approval after the commission’s review found the Rock’s record met or exceeded the Department of Education scoring rubric and that approving the school would be in the best interest of students and the community. Stovall’s recommendation emphasized the Rock’s targeted academic model, a small initial enrollment plan, partnerships with community organizations and juvenile court referrals, and a governing board experienced in serving the proposed population.
The Rock Academy described a model that combines project-based instruction, one‑on‑one mentorship, flexible scheduling (including a later start time), and wraparound services designed specifically for chronically absent ninth‑grade students. Stovall told commissioners the school proposed opening with a single very small cohort (88 ninth graders), a strength that would allow focused recruitment and implementation.
Sharika Roby Grant, Metro Nashville Public Schools’ executive director of charter schools, urged the commission to uphold the district denial, saying MNPS’ existing alternative programs and the Simon Youth program can serve at‑risk students and noting concerns about transportation, safety protocols and financial reliance on contingency plans.
Dr. Ahmed White, founder of the Rock Academy, told commissioners the school would be the state’s first opportunity charter and described partnerships and readiness to re‑engage youth. Commissioners said the record showed strong operational planning; Stovall and the review committee highlighted a governing board with relevant financial experience, an identified director of development to manage philanthropic fundraising, and a staff member assigned to day‑to‑day financial operations.
Commissioners praised the application’s clarity on recruitment and supports for the target population, and several noted the novelty and risk of an opportunity school but concluded the evidence in the appellate record justified approval. The motion to overturn MNPS’ denial and approve the Rock Academy passed unanimously in roll call (8–0 among commissioners present).
Votes at a glance: Overturn MNPS denial of Rock Academy — adopted (8–0).
Ending: The Rock Academy’s approval establishes an opportunity-school model in Tennessee; the commission and school will monitor implementation closely as a first-in-state precedent.
