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MNPS board denies four NewStart charter applications, citing planning and fiscal concerns
Summary
After presentations by the charter review team, the Metro Nashville Public Schools board voted 9to0 to deny four NewStart charter applications (Nashville School of Excellence, Empowerment Academy, The Gates School, Music City Academy), with board members citing gaps in program evidence, budget misalignments and broader concerns about charter growth and fiscal impact.
The Metro Nashville Public Schools board on Monday night voted unanimously to deny four NewStart charter applications after the MNPS charter office presented reviewer findings that flagged gaps or weaknesses in each proposal.
Director of the MNPS charter schools office Dr. Roby Grant explained that the district received four NewStart applications this cycle and that reviewers scored each application using the Tennessee State Board of Educations uniform rubric.
For the Nashville School of Excellence, reviewers rated the educational program and budget sections as "partially meets standard," noting discrepancies between the proposed program and facility budget and a lack of demonstrated local community input. Member O'Hara Block moved to deny the application, and Member Young seconded; the motion to deny passed by a 9to0 roll call/voice tally.
Empowerment Academy received ratings of "does not meet standard"…
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