From the Front of the Class newsletter of the Nashville Public Education Foundation (NPEF):
Earlier this month, the 2026 Leadership Public Education Cohort culminated its six months of leadership development programming with session 6. The day-long convening welcomed education and non-profit leaders who shared insight on navigating communication and conflict, direct engagement with Metro Nashville Public Schools, and advocacy training. Dr. Diarese George, NPEF President and CEO, also presented on the importance of building on this experience by finding meaningful ways to support public schools and other organizations serving students.
The Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce and NPEF celebrated the 7th cohort with a graduation and reception. Throughout the program, cohort members engaged in expert-led sessions, panel discussions, and research that explored key issues and opportunities facing Metro Nashville Public Schools. Overall, they addressed history, education policy, funding, workforce pathways, talent management, accountability, and school options.
A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Memphis school takeover board’s authority, after school officials said it could delay the start of the school year or even force building closures as the district prepares to welcome students back to class in less than five weeks.
Memphis-Shelby County school board members and local officials asked a federal judge Tuesday to temporarily halt the oversight board or, at minimum, block its power to disrupt contract payments and fire top district officials ahead of the 2026-27 school year, which begins Aug. 3.
