New Public Charter Schools Approved for Madison and Rutherford Counties

NASHVILLE – Tennesseans for Student Success (TSS) released the following statement today to thank members of the Tennessee Public Charter School Commission for overturning two school board decisions that would have denied underserved families in Madison and Rutherford Counties access to high-quality public education options. 

"Both the Jackson Museum School and Rocketship TN #4 offer families an innovative educational approach that goes beyond existing school options in these communities," said TSS President and CEO Lana Skelo. "The Jackson Museum School will take learning beyond the classroom by infusing subjects like science and math into weekly expeditions to local cultural centers. Rocketship Public Schools has a history of success with underserved communities in Nashville, and this expansion will bring that proven public school model to Rutherford County. We're excited to see both schools put students on a path to success."

Earlier this year, our Quality Charter Review (QCR) conducted an independent analysis of the Jackson Museum School and Rocketship TN#4 and found that both applications met all state standards for approval. The QCR highlighted the following qualities in recommending approval.

Jackson Museum School:

• Museum Model: The model integrates three design elements, including Immersive Learning Experiences, Collaborative Community Partnerships, and Integrated Literacy Development. Students will engage in authentic learning experiences and present their learning through exhibitions each quarter.
• Supporting Underserved Populations: The school will serve a diverse student population in Central and East Jackson, Madison County, where more than 40 percent of third-graders fail to meet literacy benchmarks.

Rocketship TN #4:

• Charter History: Rocketship has demonstrated success operating high-quality charter schools across Nashville.
• Personalized Learning Model: The school will implement multiple strategies to support the needs of diverse and at-risk student populations.

The Jackson Museum School will eventually serve up to 700 students in grades K-6, while Rocketship TN #4 will serve more than 570 students in grades K-5 in the La Vergne and Smyrna communities. Both are targeted to open in the 2026-27 school year.