As Tennessee’s capital city, Nashville prides itself not only on its legendary music scene and its welcoming attitude toward immigrants, but also its intellect. The so-called “Athens of the South” features a replica of the Parthenon and abundant universities. Nashville is now working to make sure its city schools also live up to that reputation.

Education Pioneers’ work in this region is primarily concentrated within the city limits of Nashville. (Fellows also collaborate closely with their peers in Memphis, just a few hours away.)

Nashville’s work to improve public education is closely tied to the work of Metro Nashville Public Schools, the statewide Achievement School District, and several national and community organizations. Tennessee received one of the first  federal Race to the Top grants.

In Nashville, where a growing percentage of students are low-income, the district has been working to strengthen the educator pipeline. Charter schools are expanding, and education technology startups are popping up too. But there is still plenty of opportunity for emerging managers and leaders to make a difference in Music City.