Building a Legacy of Learning Through Classical Education

Starting a classical charter school is a meaningful and ambitious endeavor—one that requires vision, planning, and the belief that every child deserves access to a content-rich, character-forming education. In Tennessee, the process is rigorous, but with the right team, resources, and guidance, it is entirely achievable.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or community leader, your passion for high-quality education can spark something powerful. Here's what it takes to bring a Tennessee Classical School to life:

  1. Build Community Interest and Support

  2. Establish a Founding Board of Directors

  3. Partner with a Classical Education Network or Charter Management Organization (CMO)

  4. Develop and Submit a Charter School Application

  5. Secure a Facility for the School

  6. Fundraise for Startup and Operational Costs

  7. Plan for Staffing, Curriculum, and Enrollment

  8. Receive Charter Authorization and Prepare for Opening

  9. Open the School and Begin Serving Students

  10. Maintain Accountability and Grow with Excellence

Steps to Start a Tennessee Classical Charter School

  • A successful school begins with a shared vision. Engage local families, educators, and civic leaders who are committed to educational excellence. Host information sessions, gather surveys, and build a list of supporters who believe in the classical model and want to see it in their community.ription text goes here

  • A charter school must be governed by a nonprofit board of directors. Your founding board should include individuals with experience in education, law, finance, and community leadership. Most importantly, they must share a commitment to classical education and student success.tion text goes here

  • Working with a proven classical charter support organization or charter management organization (CMO) is a game-changer. These partners provide curriculum guidance, operational frameworks, training, and long-term strategic support to ensure your school stays mission-aligned and successful from day one.

  • The charter application is detailed and reviewed by a local school district or the Tennessee Public Charter School Commission. A strong application outlines your mission, academic model, governance, operations, financial plan, and clear academic goals. Approval can take several months—and may require revisions—so early preparation is key.

  • Finding the right facility is one of the most challenging parts of launching a charter school. Start exploring options early—whether renovating an existing space, leasing a property, or building from the ground up. You’ll also need to fundraise to cover startup costs, including curriculum, furniture, staffing, and technology before state funding begins.

How long does it take?

From initial vision to opening day, launching a classical charter school typically takes 3–4 years. While that may sound long, each step is essential to ensure your school is built on a strong foundation—academically, financially, and legally.

Ready to begin?

If you’re inspired to bring a Tennessee Classical School to your community, we’d love to walk with you. With a shared mission and the right tools, your local school can become a beacon of timeless education and lasting impact.