Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Special Education Programs topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board reviews possible $750,000 purchase for north‑end Transition Academy in Smyrna
Summary
Staff presented a negotiated contract for 300 Maple Street in Smyrna as a potential north‑end Transition Academy site; the $750,000 purchase is contingent on county commission funding and a 60‑day inspection period. Transition Academy staff said the house could serve 12–20 students and offers kitchen and work‑based spaces.
District staff presented a negotiated contract to purchase 300 Maple Street in Smyrna for a proposed north‑end Transition Academy. The district reported a negotiated purchase price of $750,000, a 60‑day inspection period and a contingency on county commission approval for funding.
Miss Ralston, who represents the Transition Academy program, described the program’s purpose and current operations: "The Transition Academy serves students who are 18 to 22... We actually rent it through MTSU and the Wesley Foundation. It serves 12 students, has 1 teacher and 3 educational assistants." She said the Maple Street property is larger than the current rental and could potentially serve 12–20 students while providing a larger kitchen and office space useful for culinary and work‑based learning.
Board members asked about due diligence and alternatives. Staff confirmed an appraisal can be obtained if the board requests it; the board was also reminded the district currently pays roughly $2,100 per month for its Wesley Foundation lease. Some members urged staff to compare buying the listed house to building on district‑owned land the district previously approved, noting that using existing land could allow a larger facility if funding is available.
Why it matters: The Transition Academy offers community‑based transition services and work‑based learning for students aged 18–22. Board members said expanding capacity reduces lost opportunities; staff noted referrals (54 referrals for 2026–27) exceed current spots.
Next steps: Staff said they can obtain an appraisal and provide cost comparisons before Thursday’s meeting, and that the purchase remains contingent on county commission funding and the results of inspection.
