Thurman Francis Elementary School - Smyrna, TN

Thurman Francis Arts Academy serves approximately 650 students in grades K-8 in the Nashville suburb of Smyrna, TN. Our school is unique in that we are a "choice" magnet school open to any student that resides in the Rutherford County School District. Because students must qualify academically to enroll at TFAA, we are a population of relatively high-achievers. Many in the community consider us the "best kept secret" in the district because our students have the unique opportunity to attend both elementary and middle school on the same campus. Lifelong friendships are often cultivated in our small learning community.

A focus on the arts is our hallmark and often attracts students who are highly talented in one or more artistic endeavor. Many students who do not know they have talent find they do through our staff's ability to cultivate and foster the artist within. From dance to visual arts to instrumental performance to STEM, Thurman Francis Arts Academy offers multiple opportunities for students to develop in ways not available at other area schools. We feel that artistic instruction engages students' brains in unique ways and reinforces the rigorous academics provided in core subject classes.

The parents and community play a significant role in our success. From supporting our many performances to raising necessary funds that finance our productions, our PTO and local businesses can always be counted on to actively partner with the school, ensuring our success. They make it possible to sustain our positive, engaging culture.