stem field trips nashville

Nashville STEM trips will create lifelong memories for your students. Educational Destinations offers a variety of Nashville STEM trip opportunities. If your students are ready for science and technology labs, classes emphasizing hands-on interactive learning experiences or want to experience the SkyLase laser light show at Adventure Science Center, Educational Destinations will make your Nashville STEM trip rewarding and memorable.

Educational destinations is the 1st choice for nashville stem trips and nashville education travel..

Find out why Educational Destinations is the 1st choice in educational Nashville group tours

View our 2 minute intro video to see what Educational Destinations can do for your group.

At Nashville Zoo at Grassmere, discover why species are at risk of becoming threatened, endangered or extinct and what you can do to help. Engage students in art, history, and botanical gardens with a field trip to Cheekwood or try to locate the queen bee at the Adventure Science Center. Along with grand museums, and engaging attractions – Nashville is an educational destination that beams with STEM opportunities. Nashville has so much to offer your students that are ready to open their minds to STEM!

 Below are some popular options for your educational STEM trip. You can also click on the PDF icon for a download of these features.

Educational STEM Opportunities

• Marine Biologist for a Day
• Aerospace Engineering Workshops
• Robotics Workshops
• Circuits Workshops
• Campus Tours
• Biology Workshop
• Tech-Based “Toys” Workshops
• Little Engineers
• Primary Physical Forces Labs
• It’s Electric! Labs
• Structural Design Competitions
• STEAM Saturdays
• GSK Science in the Summer
• Aquarium Underwater Dining
• Innovation Incubator Maker Labs
• Night Owl Overnights
• Environmental Engineering Workshops
• Mechanical Engineering Workshops
• Chemistry Labs
• Upload Your Code Labs
• Amusement Park Physics Labs
• Rocket Challenge Labs
• Suminagashi Fluid Mechanics Labs
• Animal Science Activities
• Earth Science Week Programs
• Planetarium Shows
• Outdoor Explorations
• Overnight Explorations
• Robot Dance Party
• Pathway to Animal Care Careers
• 3D Printing Workshops
• Become an Action Figure
• Introductory Workshops to Coding
• Girl STEM Workshops
• Coding Camps

STEM Attractions

• Adventure Science Center
• Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art
• Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
• Sudekum Planetarium
• Discovery Park of America
• Vanderbilt Center for Science Outreach
• Middle Tennessee State University
• Cedar Crest Camp & Retreat Center,
• Braingineers Lab
• Engineering For Kids
• Deer Run Retreat
• Owl's Hill Nature Sanctuary
• Tennessee Aquarium
• Discovery Center

Other Attractions

• Tennessee Central Railway Museum
• Beech Bend (Bowling Green)
• Grand Ole Opry
• Ryman Auditorium
• Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
• Chaffin's Barn Dinner Theatre
• General Jackson Showboat
• The Johnny Cash Museum
• Nashville Visitor Center
• Belle Meade Plantation
• Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum
• Cumberland River Cruises
• Wave Country
• Schermerhorn Symphony Center
• Walk of Fame Park
• Wildhorse Saloon
• Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage
• RCA Studio B
• Nashville Shores
• The Hermitage
• Opryland Hotel
• Travellers' Rest Plantation & Museum

The Trip Account app is offered to our groups as they travel.

Included in your trip, group leaders, staff, chaperones and travelers will use the information packed, versatile Trip Account App during their travels.

Powerful Director Tools

Interactive Checklists, Pop Up Communications, Emergency Notifications.

Tools for all travelers

Live Itineraries, Group Messaging, Photo Gallery and much more.

Everything you need for your next trip .

The Trip Account app is available for iPhone and Android.

See our difference

It’s no surprise that Educational Destinations sets and exceeds student travel standards. We aim to provide the best service, communication, experience and safety for all of our groups. When researching for your travel provider, please download this PDF checklist HERE to ensure that your group is taking advantage of all of the essential building blocks of a successful, safe, and FUN trip! If you have questions or are ready to get started on your next trip, please call 800.616.1112 or request your customized quote .

Custom Designed Trips

ED will create a custom designed trip for your group that is shaped by your priorities, goals and wishes, and powered by your passions. ED is committed to listening and working one-on-one with you to build the perfect trip for your students. There are no stock trips here - just your trip.

Group Travel Specialists

Led by award-winning teachers, ED exceeds the needs and expectations of students, teaching staff, parents and administrators. ED anticipates group needs and delivers group wishes, without surprises or hidden costs. Our experience and expertise enable us to bring the best quality trips, events, experiences and opportunities to your group.

All-Inclusive Price

ED’s custom trips are cost-effective and inclusive, without hidden costs – a great value for your travelers. Charter coaches, flights, hotels, meals, sightseeing, events, taxes and gratuities are covered for each traveler. A 24/7 Emergency Contact System is included for each traveling group.

Cutting Edge Technology

Through ED's parent company, ED is the only student travel company providing Trip Account , an internet-based program that provides you a complete trip resource center 24 hours a day. Also included in your trip is the Trip Account App: Music Directors, group leaders, staff, chaperones and travelers will use the information packed, versatile Trip Account App during their travels.

Personal Tour Director

A signature feature of every trip is the ED Tour Director , always right by the teacher’s side, managing all travel aspects of your trip: transportation, events, meals, lodging, tickets and more. Our TD’s training and management skills let the teacher focus on the students and education.

Safety is Priority #1

ED is pro-active on safety, sending the Tour Director World Aware® alerts, sharing best practices in travel safety, emergency procedures and travel hints with chaperones and staff, ensuring traveler accountability, monitoring vendor service/performance and tellng travelers of changes or emergencies with the Trip Account App .

Trusted Leader in Travel

ED is an active member of these respected travel suppliers and organizations: Walt Disney World & Disneyland, Universal Orlando, American Bus Association, National Band Association, National Tour Association, Student Youth Travel Association and more. View all ED’s partners and awards here .

Doing the right thing

ED is deeply committed to high quality educational group travel. We love what we do, and we work hard to do it better than everyone. Creating memorable performance trips that leave positive, life-changing impressions on your students and community is a privilege that we don’t take lightly. Please talk to us about your next trip.

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Check out our featured STEM destinations.

Encourage your STEM students as they participate in discovery labs, live shows, exhibits and hands-on educational experiences. learn more

Meet the ED Travel Designers

Our team is focused on creating custom trips that provide relevant, memorable and rewarding student travel experiences. learn more

Discover our featured history destinations.

Your students are ready to learn about the American Revolution and how Boston led the nation in fighting... learn more

Explore our our featured art destinations.

How about discovering a feast for the eyes with around 35,000 pieces of artwork at the Louvre... learn more

Check out our featured language immersion destinations.

Your Language Immersion students are ready to embrace the culture of France and participate in... learn more

Discover our featured adventure destinations.

Imagine your students as they kayak along the stunningly scenic coastal route along the Costa Verde in Brazil... learn more

Explore our featured theatre destinations.

Are your theatre students ready to participate in an actual Broadway Musical Theatre Workshop... learn more

Travel with Special Considerations or Dietary Restrictions

When a group is focused on its education, it is easy to overlook issues with accessibility. learn more

Top European Destinations

With the world full of fascinating educational destinations, just choosing the perfect spot for your students can present quite a challenge. Here are some of our cleints' must popular top European destinations. learn more

Getting parents involved in your educational trip.

Having parents involved in the program it a vital piece of the puzzle to be successful. learn more

Getting Groups Through Airport Security

Here’s how to get your students through security, smoothly and efficiently. learn more

Motor Coach Travel Advice for Students

Make the most of your ride with these insider tips. learn more

Choosing the right educational student group travel company.

When a student gets to experience to new locations, new cultures and new people with education being the focus, the revelations and the eye-opening impact that develop are priceless. learn more

Disney on Broadway with Educational Destinations.

Breathtaking! Amazing! Phenomenal! These are words you have probably heard time and time again from friends, family, and others when seeing a musical on Broadway. learn more

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Fund Raising for your educational student trip.

Time for some heavy lifting. Before your trip becomes a reality, some homework has to be done. Don’t worry, Educational Destinations is here to help... learn more

See why teachers are excited about Educational Destinations...

Hear from our valued clients throughout the world.

Since 1987, Educational Destinations, led by passionate, award-winning teachers, has become the first choice for educational student group travel. By listening to teachers, providing cutting edge technology and unmatched service, and having dedicated ED Tour Directors conduct trips, Educational Destinations has built an unmatched reputation. Focused on designing custom trips that provide educational, memorable, and rewarding student travel experiences, Educational Destinations successfully partners with customers to do just that, in destinations within the United States and worldwide. Decades of combined travel expertise, earned in dozens of countries, enables Educational Destinations to anticipate performance needs and deliver group wishes, without surprises or hidden costs.

I wanted to write and tell you what a terrific job you did with our trip. I’ve been traveling since 1980 and this was the easiest trip ever for me. I simply had to do nothing but teach! It’s hard to believe it’s taken me this long to get it right, slow learner! The students and parents have had nothing to say but wonderful things…

Nan Moore Male High School

You have been so wonderful with our parents and students throughout the entire course of this tour. I am so glad we signed on with Music Travel Consultants/Educational Destinations as you gave our group the red carpet treatment every step of the way.

Janis Stackhouse Bloomington High School North

Music Travel Consultants/Educational Destinations is top-notch. The professionalism of the staff and their attention to detail is a director’s dream come true. My students and I have traveled with them four times over the past several years and I can say that “I won’t leave home without them!

Jena Adrianson Lawrence Central High School

I can’t say enough good things about Educational Destinations. They had everything covered and it was a relaxing and fun trip. My students and parents commented that it was the best trip we have ever taken. I’m ready to plan another trip with this company.

Brenda Bergman Jay County School Corporation

I recently had the pleasure of going on a Disney Trip with our band from Eastern High School in Greentown, IN. I was skeptical about going but am so glad I did. My Grandson and I came in rather late and had no problems whatsoever in getting onto your site, paying for our trip, and having confirmation that we were good to go.

Dianna Workinger Greentown, IN

Being able to trust implicitly the people who are planning what we will see, the timing of the itinerary, and the traveling arrangements is comforting not only to our staff but also to our parents. For our parents to know that this is a company that we use year after year with great results gives them the peace of mind that their children will experience the safest trip possible.

Mrs. Kathy Schubel Principal, St. Bartholomew Catholic School

I wanted to thank you so much for such a great trip! Our kids had a wonderful time and I could not imagine how we would have seen all that we were able to see without having you organize this trip for us.

Angie Remington Madison-Grant Elementary Students

I have worked with Educational Destinations on a yearly basis since 2001 and ED is the best educational travel group our school has ever worked with. It is refreshing to know that during the course of a trip that if any questions or problems arise, we have the consultant, whom we have worked with all year, right there with us to answer all questions and take care of the tickets and timing. It makes the trip very relaxing and enjoyable and a trip our kids never forget.

Darrin Russell 8th Grade U.S. History, Mitchell High School

I have been coordinating educational field trips for my school for the past 10 years and could not be happier with Educational Destinations. From the very first brainstorming session to the moment we return home from our trip, Educational Destinations works tirelessly to make sure our trips are memorable and successful. They are always quick to answer my questions, which I truly appreciate. Michael, Robin, and Ryan have been fantastic to work with over the years and I highly recommend them!

Kris Samick Spencer-Owen Community School Corporation

Educational Destinations has taken the stress out of planning and traveling with a large group. As a teacher, I am now able to actually enjoy the time I have with my students instead of worrying about all of the necessary details. From the very first contact made to the last moment of the trip and beyond, each and every person we have interacted with from Educational Destinations has been professional, concerned about fulfilling our needs, and exceptionally conscientious.

Linda Crady History Teacher, Sycamore School

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We're ready to take your science adventure to the next level!

Whether you're venturing to Adventure Science Center for the day or want to have programs brought to you, we offer a wide variety of STEM programming that aligns with the updated Tennessee Science Grade Level Expectations (GLEs). Download the guide below to view rates and program offerings. Keep scrolling to learn about our field trip and homeschool programs.

Field Trips

Grade-level expectation-fulfilling science and technology labs, and classes emphasizing hands-on, interactive learning experiences designed and led by engaging educators with degrees in the sciences. If you're just planning on bringing your group in to visit the exhibitions, ask about the scavenger hunts we have available for free to help guide and add structure to your adventure!

Homeschool Programs

Our homeschool classes bring hands-on, minds-on explorations of chemistry, physics and meteorology. Each lesson building on the foundation laid during the previous class.  

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Inschool Fieldtrips

• MiniMovie_Leisure_160203

Multiple time winner of Tennessee’s Best Children’s Entertainer voted by Readers of Nashville Parent Magazine 

HOW IT WORKS

Super Science TN offers Inschool Fieldtrips starting at $6 per child with the price going down with multiple bookings or grades booking.

We spend one class period (45 mins-1 hour) with each class in your grade, we can come for one or two days, and best of all WE COME TO YOU!!!!!

All our Inschool Fieldtrips have a strong emphasis on STEM Principles and Concepts, and are tailored to the Tennessee State Science Standards.

Everything we offer is Extremely Hands On, Educational, Fun and Safe!

Most Inschool Fieldtrips include a take home experiment result for the children to encourage learning outside the classroom.

We also offer 1 hour Assemblies for up to 200 children starting at $275 .

SUPER SCIENCE has visited over 100 schools, and 20 school districts in Tennessee and been seen by thousands of children over the last 11 years.

We look to bring Excitement and Education together with our Hands On Science Workshops held in the comfort of your classroom.

Workshops based on Tennessee State Standards

These are just suggested workshops for each grade level and can be adapted for any grade. 

We can also customize any workshop to fit your specific needs and create new shows and workshops on request.

For more info feel free to contact Mr Rich at 615-589-1968 or at [email protected] .

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WEEK 1 - Science of Cooking JR.

GRADES: 1 -2

DATES: June 3 - June 7

Science of Cooking specialty camp will st ill have campers engage with classic cooking tasks and fun recipes, but also focus on the role that science plays in these processes. Learn about various cooking styles, measurements, nutrition, and more...not to mention eating lots of yummy and healthy food.

WEEK 2 - Science of cooking 

GRADES: 3-6

DATES: June 10- June 14

All the fun and learning of Week 1’s Science of Cooking Jr. but differentiated for our older campers!  

WEEK 3 - advanced robotics with robo-think!

DATES: June 17 - June 21

Camp Davis is partnering with RoboThink to bring you a brand new high-tech specialty option. RoboThink specialists will be coming in to lead campers in a different robot build and activity each day. These include Battle Bots, Construction Machines, Mars Rover, and more. Space is limited so make sure to register early to secure your spot – you don’t want to miss out on this specialty camp!  

WEEK 4 - FUN SCIENCE 

GRADES: 1-3

DATES: June 24  - June 28

This specialty camp makes science fun and interactive through lots of cool science experiments! Campers will conduct different experiments every day including bottle rockets, making slime, homemade rock candy, and more – all while donning custom lab coats. It is scientifically proven that this will be a super fun week of science!  

WEEK 5 - no specialty camps this week!

Week 6 - all things nature  .

DATES: July 8 - July 12

Is Nature your child’s favorite activity at Camp Davis? Do they love being outside, hiking, and insects? This speciality camp will cover it all and more in an amazing week out in nature. Camp Davis has over 40 acres that will all be explored as campers learn about different plants and trees, bugs and animals, and much more. A mini field trip to Hidden Lake at Harpeth River State Park rounds out an extremely fun and outdoorsy specialty camp! 

WEEK 7 - POKEMON CAMP

GRADES: 1-6

DATES: July 15  - July 19

Gotta catch ‘em all! If your kiddo is obsessed with Pokemon then this is the specialty camp for them. This camp will cover all things Pokemon including battling with cards, creating new Pokemon and custom Pokemon cards, and even playing Pokemon video games with a traveling video game truck...! You won’t want to miss this unique specialty offering.  

WEEK 8 - MACCABIA: cOLOR WAR

GRADES: K-8

DATES: July 22 -July 26

The summer is almost over and it is time for one of the greatest Camp Davis traditions- the Maccabia games! This is an incredible week of camp where children are divided up into three different teams. We spend the entire week competing in different athletic, artistic, and ruach based events. Sportsmanship is the key to a victory this week, as children learn the importance of winning- and losing- with their heads held high. 

Maccabia week at Camp Davis is unlike any other week. There are no field trips or specialty tracks. Children spend a large portion of the day in mixed age groupings. Because of this alternative schedule, we strongly recommend that campers have experienced additional weeks of camp before attending during week 8.

Now Open Wednesday – Sunday!  View Schedule

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Memberships & Programs

Trip Advisor

Recommended

“Adventure Anytime” Season Pass

The “Adventure Anytime” Season Pass Membership is the ultimate adventure package. Unlimited climbing, valid for 365 days.

Starting at $475 per passholder

“Adventure Anytime” Monthly Pass

The “Adventure Anytime” Monthly Pass Membership Gives You Unlimited Climbing with No Commitment!

Starting at $75 per month

Memberships

“i wanted to let you know that your facilities and staff are awesome  i bought my son the membership last july, and he has gone with his friends almost weekly since.  the kids love it, and each time the go they find a new challenge.”, adventures in stem.

Our free Adventures in STEM program is an interactive adventure and educational experience for kids.   Our DIY STEM program is a fun way to learn about science, technology, math, engineering… and adventure!

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Field trip ideas

There are many different locations in the area that can make for a fun and educational field trip. Some of these are great for a day trip, while others might require a longer trip but they all will help bring the field of STEM to life outside the classroom.

Local Field Trips

The Adventure Science Center lives out its mission to ignite curiosity and inspire the lifelong discovery of science. Their dedicated Board of Trustees, committed staff and loyal volunteers work to make science exciting and unforgettable. With the continued support of members and generous donors, they will inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, doctors, explorers, and innovators that will transform the world.

The Adventure Science Center

800 Fort Negley blvd.

Nashville, TN, 37203

(615) 862-5160

The Clarksville Greenway is a part of the Rails to Trails initiative that transforms scenic abandoned railroad rights of way and river corridors into walking and biking trails. It has garnered statewide recognition for environmental stewardship as well as popularity among citizens. This approximately 9-mile walking and biking trail is situated in north Clarksville along the banks of the Red River and West Fork Creek. It preserves a natural space for alternative transportation from the downtown area to the North side of town. Native species of plants and animals can be viewed throughout the corridor. The community also benefits from these natural areas as they clean air and water, provide flood storage and protection, reduce erosion as well as offer educational resources. One of the unique features of the trail is the Raymond C. Hand Pass, a 600 foot pedestrian bridge. The Clarksville Greenway 1101 Pollard rd.

Clarksville, TN, 37042

About the Park Dunbar Cave State Park is located 60 minutes northwest of Nashville and about one and a half miles northeast of downtown Clarksville in Montgomery County. Dunbar Cave, at over eight miles in length, is one of the largest caves in Montgomery County. In the roomy mouth of the cave, square dances, radio shows and big band era concerts were once held. The 144-acre park is honeycombed by Dunbar Cave and numerous sinkholes. The cave has historical, natural, archaeological and geological significance. Excavations revealed that this cave has been used by man for thousands of years, drawn by its constant stream flow and natural air conditioning. These early inhabitants left drawings on the cave walls, perhaps as part of religious ceremonies. Dunbar Cave State Park 401 Old Dunbar Cave rd.

Clarksville, TN, 37043

(931) 648-5526

As part of America’s great outdoors since 1963, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area manages over 170,000 acres of forests, wetlands, and open lands on a peninsula between Kentucky and Barkley lakes in Western Kentucky and Tennessee. The family friendly recreation area offers one of the largest blocks of undeveloped forest in the eastern United States. With 300 miles of natural shoreline, lake access provides idyllic settings for camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and water sports. Licensed hunts for deer, turkey, squirrel and other small game animals occur throughout the year. Land Between the Lakes 238 Visitor Center Drive

Golden Pond, KY 42211

(270) 924-2000 or (800) 525-7077

Liberty Park

1188 Cumberland Drive

Clarksville, TN, 37040

Mr. Bond’s Science Guys' mission is to make science fun, cool and easy for kids! With over 20 years of experience in Tennessee and beyond, they make science interesting and exciting with hands on demonstrations. The Science Guys have been teaching STEM and now STEAM programs long before there was an acronym. If you're an educator, event planner or organizer looking to foster inquiring minds, logical reasoning, and collaboration skills we have a program for you. Mr. Bond's Science Guys Your School!

(615) 573-2702

Nashville Zoo is a progressive and dynamic zoological park serving Middle Tennessee, southern Kentucky and hundreds of thousands of tourists that travel to Nashville every year. Since opening its doors in 1991, the Zoo has grown from a small, private operation in Cheatham County to an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited facility with international conservation involvement. Over 960,000 visitors come to Nashville Zoo annually, making us one of the top attractions in Middle Tennessee. Nashville Zoo at Grassmere 3777 Nolensville Pike

Nashville, TN 37211

(615) 833-1534

Rotary Park is a 111.3-acre nature park located on Rotary Drive, near the Sango community. It is easily accessible one block southeast of the Highway 76/Highway 41 intersection. Boasting over five miles of hiking/biking trails, and a large ADA-accessible playground. Rotary Park 2308 Rotary Park Drive

Clarksville, TN 37043

Virtual Field Trips

Rules are tight and budgets are even tighter. skip the hassle and enjoy a field trip, virtually. virtual field trips are a great way to allow your class to explore new places without ever leaving the classroom. check out the ideas below for fun virtual field trips.

Click here to see a quick tutorial on how to use this fun resource for virtual field trips. Discovery Education

Eduscapes Teacher Tap has lots of resources for virtual field trips. Explore their list to see how you can incorporate virtual field trips into your curriculum. Eduscapes

By using the keyword 'virtual tour' in the searchbar, users can find various virtual field trips experiences offered by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. NASA

Skype in the classroom can help create a memorable, virtual learning experience for your students. Skype has virtual field trips available for users to view. Additionally, skype can be used to create your own virtual field trips or interview classes in other countries. Skype

This database of virtual field trips is specific to those of museums and exhibits. The Teacher's Guide

This site has links and information for three virtual field trip ideas for you to do in your own classroom. We are Teachers

• Buckingham Palace ​
• The Empire State Building ​
• Google Arts and Culture ​
• Google Sky ​
• The Grand Canyon ​
• The Grand Ole Opry ​
• The Great Barrier Reef ​
• The Great Wall of China ​
• The Leaning Tower of Pisa ​
• The Liberty Bell ​
• The Louvre ​
• Mount St. Helens ​
• Mount Rushmore ​
• The Pyramids ​
• Smithsonian ​
• The White House

APSU Jack Hunt STEM Center Austin Peay State University Claxton Building Room 104 Clarksville, TN 37042 Telephone: 931.221.7513​

Co-Director:  Donna F. Short,    [email protected]

Co-Director:  Philip C. Short,    [email protected]  

Camps at Engineering For Kids of Greater Nashville Area

At Engineering For Kids, our camps are carefully structured to provide your child with the enrichment he or she needs to grow and thrive. Our camps run in the spring, winter, and summer for your convenience. Our programs come in many varieties to accommodate your schedule, such as half-day camps, full-day camps, and holiday break camps. We also host camps on scheduled days off for reasons such as professional work days, teacher conference days, etc.

Just a few of these beneficial opportunities include:

• Teamwork: Most of our camps schedule fun and engaging teamwork activities that teach children the value of investing in others.
• Resilience and motivation: Our challenging programs help to teach kids how to keep trying. This also helps them feel accomplished when they succeed, which develops their will to learn.
• Decision-making: Our uniquely structured activities help children establish and build upon great decision-making skills, which can help build confidence.

In addition, the wide range of activities and classes that we offer encourage children to try new things, which is a beneficial skill that can be applied in several instances throughout adulthood.

Thank you so much for helping make our STEM night such a great success! The Engineering for Kids stations were a huge hit and the students were really engaged and interested in all of the hands-on learning that you guys brought! We can’t thank you enough for making our event so great! – Melanie Summer Camps | 2022

Harding Academy, Nashville TN 2024

Contact Harding Academy for pricing.

June 3 – June 7

• 8:30-11:30 AM (GR. 3rd – 7th) – Minecraft: Traveling Into the future
• 12:00-3:00 PM (GR. 3rd – 7th) – World Games Engineering STEM Camp
• 12:00-3:00 PM (GR. K- 2nd) – Jr. Twisted Fairy Tales STEM Camp

June 10 – June 14

• 12:00-3:00 PM (GR. k – 2nd) – Jr. STEM Camp (Wings, Wheels, and Sails)

June 17 – June 21

• 8:30-11:30 AM (GR. 3rd – 7th) 3D Printing-Minecraft Creations
• 12:00-3:00 PM (GR. 3rd – 7th) Electronic Game Design- Invader Defense-Alien Invasion.
• 12:00-3:00 PM (GR. K-2nd) – Jr. Digging For Dinos STEM Camp

June 24 – June 28

• 8:30-11:30 AM (GR. 3rd – 7th) Orbiters and Landers STEM Camp
• 12:00-3:00 PM (GR. K-2nd) – Jr. Engineers Under Construction STEM Camp

July 8 – July 12

• 8:30-11:30 AM (GR. 3rd- 7th) 3D Printing-Super Heroes STEM Camp
• 12:00-3:00 PM (GR. 3rd – 7th) – Out of this World STEM Camp

July 15 – July 19

• 8:30-11:30 AM (GR. k – 2nd) Zany Zoo Engineers STEM Camp
• 12:00-3:00 PM (GR. k – 2nd) – Jr. World Games Engineering STEM Camp

July 22 – July 26

• 8:30-11:30 AM (GR. 3rd – 7th) Missions and Mechanics STEM Camp
• 8:30-11:30 AM (GR. k – 2nd) Jr. Playful Playground Engineers STEM Camp
• 12:00-3:00 PM (GR. 3rd – 7th) –Wreck-it-Week STEM Camp
• 12:00-3:00 PM (GR. k – 2nd) –Jr. Space Pioneers STEM Camp

Register Here

WILLIAMSON COUNTY RECREATIONAL CENTERS SUMMER CAMPS 2024

June 3rd-7th @ Nolensville Recreational Center

• 9AM – 12PM; K-2nd (AM ONLY) Jr. Robotics Lab STEM Camp
• 9AM – 12PM (3rd-8th (AM) Momentum Madness STEM Camp
• 1PM-4PM (3rd-8th (PM) Robotics 101STEM Camp

June 10th-14th @ Longview Recreational Center

• 9AM – 12PM (k-2nd (AM) Jr. Engineers Under Construction STEM Camp
• 9AM – 12PM (3rd – 8th (AM) Amazing Race STEM Camp
• 1PM-4PM (3rd-8th (PM) Robotics Robo Games STEM Camp

June 17th – 21st @ Fairview Recreational Center

• 9AM – 12PM (k – 2nd (AM) Jr. Robotics Lab STEM Camp
• 1PM-4PM (3rd-8th (PM) Amazing Race STEM Camp

June 24th – June 28th @ Franklin Recreational Center

• 9AM – 12PM (3rd-8th (AM) Minecraft-Traveling Into the Future
• 1PM-4PM (3rd-8th (PM) World Games Engineering STEM Camp

July 8th – July 12th @ Longview Recreational Center

• 9AM – 12PM; K-2nd (AM ONLY) Jr. Digging For Dinos STEM Camp
• 1PM-4PM (3rd-8th (PM) Robotics – Robo Battles

July 15th – July 19th @ Franklin Recreational Center

• 9AM – 12PM (3rd-8th (AM) Amazing Race STEM Camp
• 9AM – 12PM (k- 2nd (AM) Jr. Space Pioneers STEM Camp
• 1PM-4PM (3rd-8th (PM) Robotics- Rescue Robots STEM Camp

July 22nd – July 26th @ Nolensville Recreational Center

• 9AM – 12PM (3rd-8th (AM) Electronic Game Design-Racing Games-Motocross STEM Camp

Out of this World Camp

During Out of this World camp, students will explore three fields of engineering: aerospace, civil, and chemical. Collaborating with their Space State teams, they will design and construct a variety of projects that will enable mankind to safely inhabit the moon.

Heroes Week STEM Camp

During Heroes Week, students will explore the fields of environmental engineering, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering as they design and construct tools that will help them protect the world, as all good superheroes do.

Engineers Under Construction Camp

Put on your hard hats engineers and join us for our Engineers Under Construction! In this camp, students work hard to apply their knowledge of construction to save the beach from erosion and build their very own city from the ground up. From roads and tunnels to buildings and skyscrapers, students discover that no job’s too tough for an Engineering for Kids engineer!

Jr. Coding 101 STEM Camp

During this camp, our Youngest Engineers will be introduced to the basic concept of coding. This class is a mixture of fun and learning using a robot and computer to create, design and code their way through an array of mazes and endless engineering learning experiences. Students will also color code commands with special markers, program their bots and see it in action. Join us, in this fun and learning adventure of coding.

How Amusing STEM Camp

Ah, the thrill of an amusement park…zipping around on racecars, zooming through the loops of a rollercoaster, trying your luck at a floating boat game, Marble Run, Ferris Wheels, and more. During this camp, students will divide into theme park teams. They will challenge other teams in specific engineering-related contests with the goal of creating the most fantastic and thrilling theme park experience. At the end of the week, only one team will emerge as the winner and will be granted the prestigious honor of creating the world’s next great amusement park for children ages 0-99 to enjoy for summers to come!

Jr. STEM Camp – Wings Wheels and Sails

Everyone has to travel, and engineers are involved in all the steps of designing different modes of transportation as well as inventing and designing tools that aid in travel. During this camp students will explore areas of engineering such as mechanical, civil, marine, and aerospace engineering. They will explore the thought process behind road design, construct shapes that make sound bridges and test them, design a boat to float across the ocean, and discover and build designs that let us travel through the air and even into space.

Electronic Game Design: Racing Games

A racing video game is a video game genre in which the player controls a vehicle in a racing competition. In this lesson, the player controls the vehicle from a third-person point of view. The game may take place in any setting the creator chooses. From the famous NASCAR Daytona 500 to an imaginary space race, anything is possible.You see it all the time: children race their bikes around the cul-de-sac, so many students will already know the rules of the track. Students will design their own racetrack, race cars, and an environment to race them in. At the end of the program, everyone takes home a working game.

3D Printing Super Heroes

3D printers are one of the most widely applicable and fun inventions on the tech scene today! In 3D Printing: Superheroes To The Rescue, we will explore the basic concepts of 3D printing and computer-aided design, or CAD, to design and create our very own 3D printed superhero! Students will take their hand drawn design and learn how to extrude it into a 3D model that can then be modified to be printed in 3D.

Electronic Game Design: Racing Games – Motocross

Ladies and gentlemen start your engines! On your mark, get set, GO! Kids are drawn to the excitement of a race. They hoot and holler in anticipation that the car they chose will cross the finish line first. We will use the Engineering Design Process to create a storyboard that will outline the rules of play and characters for our game based on the basic rules of racing. Then, we will use Clickteam Fusion 2.5® to bring our storyboard to life with programming. At the end of the program, everyone takes home a working Windows-compatible game.

Electronic Game Design: Invader Defense – Bug Invasion!

Eek! The bugs are after our birthday cake!! In Electronic Game Design: Bug Invasion, we will create our own version of an invader defense game that is set in a home where we have to defend our birthday cake from an infestation of ravenous bugs! We will use the Engineering Design Process to create a storyboard to outline the rules of play and characters for our game. Then, we will use Clickteam Fusion 2.5® to bring our storyboard to life with programming. At the end of the class, everyone takes home a working Windows-compatible game.

Robotics: Olympics

This Robotics Olympics curriculum will introduce students to the concepts of building and programming robots in a competitive and fun way. During the Robotics Olympics camp, campers design and program robots to compete in a stimulated Olympic event, such as a sprint in a race, throwing a basketball and shooting a puck into a hockey goal. Students use LEGO Robotics and computers to learn the principles of robotics, computer programming and team work.

Robotics Robo Games

Robotics Robo Games curriculum is designed to introduce students to the world of not only building, but also programming basic robots. The challenge facing robotics engineers is that the robot knows only what is written into the program. The design of the robot must also be capable of performing the task at hand. Each day students will design and program their LEGO robots (EV3) to compete in games inspired by the classics such as Pong, and hide and go seek among others. Students will use their robots to take down their classmates in challenges designed to test and develop their creative programming skills.

Jr. Robotics lab-Simple Machines

We use simple machines everyday, but many times without even recognizing them. In Junior Robotics: Simple Machines United, students will explore the basic concepts of simple machines and how we use them to achieve even our most grandiose goals! Students will use LEGO® WeDo™ construction and resource kits to produce new and exciting builds that will be used to create Kelvin’s Amusement Park.

Amazing Race

111 years ago airplanes had not even made their first flight, yet today we can fly to the other side of the world in 12 hours! It is thanks to advances in technology that we are able to explore so much of the world. Over the next five days teams will have to work together to see who is able to travel the farthest around the world. This trek around the world will require students to design their very own boat, plane, and race cars, even a rocket!

Electronic Game Design: Invader Defense—Shark Attack!

Watch out! It’s a shark attack! In Invader Defense: Shark Attack, we will create our own version of an invader defense game that will allow us to protect a coral reef from hungry sharks. We will use the Engineering Design Process to create a storyboard and outline the rules of play for our game. Then we will use Clickteam Fusion 2.5® to bring our storyboard to life with programming. At the end of the class, everyone takes home a working game.

Electronic Game Design: Platform Games

During our Electronic Game Design : Platform camp, students will use Multimedia Fusion 2® to create their own video game. A platform game is a side-scrolling, Mario-type game where students program characters and a two-dimensional obstacle course. They attempt to avoid or overcome enemies and reach an end goal on multiple levels. At the end of the program, everyone takes home a working game.

Electronic Game Design: Invader Defense — Alien Invasion

Video games are everywhere and in almost every form you can imagine. In the Electronic Game Design: Invader Defense class, we will create our own version of an invader defense game where we will defend against an invasion. We will use the Engineering Design Process to create a storyboard to outline the rules of play and characters for our game. Then, we will use Clickteam Fusion 2.5® to bring our storyboard to life with programming. At the end of the class, everyone takes home a working Windows-compatible game.

Electronic Game Design: Tower Defense

Our castle is being invaded by a neighboring kingdom! In Electronic Game Design: Tower Defense—Medieval Invaders, we will create our own version of a Tower Defense game set in a far off medieval kingdom under siege by an army of knights! We will use the Engineering Design Process to create a storyboard to outline the rules of play and characters for our game. Then, we will use Clickteam Fusion 2.5® to bring our storyboard to life with programming. At the end of the class, everyone takes home a working Windows-compatible game.

Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Exploration! using little bits;

Eureka! Kelvin has finally done it! He has created a perpetual motion machine. But what is this?! An evil genius has stolen Kelvin’s masterpiece – oh no! Kelvin is now looking for a trustworthy team to develop and test new gadgets that will help him find and safeguard his perpetual motion machine. Explore the basics of mechanical, electrical engineering and logic based programming as students use littleBits® and work together to design gadgets, tools, and machines that will help Kelvin get out of any sticky situation he may encounter.

Minecraft: Medieval Redstone

Minecraft is an expansive game that lets players design and create unique worlds with amazing structures. One of the more complicated aspects of Minecraft is Redstone, which is Minecraft’s version of electrical circuitry. This class will introduce students to the many uses of Redstone through a Medieval themed adventure of creation, exploration, and castle besieging, with students making mine cart tracks to help them gather resources, working together to build their kingdom, and designing traps to defend their castle, all with the use of Redstone.

Minecraft: Traveling into the Future

Join us in an apocalyptic future, one where the earth has been ravaged by a series of natural disasters. Each day, students rely on the engineering design process to solve a series of challenges such as building a city on a series of islands, escaping from a bunker on Mt. Everest, and even building a rocket to land on the moon! Through application of engineering principles, students solve numerous challenges as they make their virtual world of Minecraft a safe place for humanity once again.

3D Printing –Minecraft Creations

3D printing and Minecraft both represent boundless opportunity for creating even our wildest of ideas! In 3D Printing: Minecraft Creations, students will explore the basic concepts of 3D printing and computer-aided design, or CAD, to bring their most awesome Minecraft creation to life! Students will take their Minecraft design out of the world of Minecraft and learn how to extrude it into a 3D model that can then be modified to be printed in 3D. 3D printing is a boundless new realm for engineers in every possible discipline, and we are excited to begin this journey with our students!

Robotics 101

The Robotics 101 camp, students will learn the basics of designing, programming, and controlling a fully functional robot. Using LEGO® EV3®, mathematical concepts, and engineering principles students will brainstorm, plan, test, and modify sequences of instructions to accomplish a given task. Students will also learn the sequence of communication between the robot, and the programmer by collecting and analyzing data using the robot’s sensors.

Robotics – Robo Battle

Robo Battles curriculum is designed to introduce students to the world of not only building, but also programming basic robots. The challenge facing robotics engineers is that the robot knows only what is written into the program. The design of the robot must also be capable of performing the task at hand. In this unit, students will experience both the designing and programming roles of being a robotics engineer. The students will explore different ways in which a robot could be utilized to engage in various battle challenges in a less competitive environment. Lessons include, tug of war, sumo bots, tanks and more.

Robotics: Rescue Robots

The LEGO® Robotics: Rescue Robots curriculum is designed to introduce students to the world of not only building, but also programming basic robots. Throughout this course the students will explore different ways in which a robot could be utilized to respond in disaster situations. Through discussion and hands-on activities, students will learn to differentiate technology from natural (not man-made) objects and discuss why these objects are considered to be technology. Also students will explore areas that humans cannot travel, such as the ocean floor and deep space, assist in the safe disposal of explosives and analyze data provided by sensors and react to it appropriately.

Design The Future

What does the future look like? Join us as we embark on an odyssey to explore the future of transportation, manufacturing and structural. Let’s take a look at the innovations of today and apply them to create the designs of tomorrow as we explore ways to harness clean energy and house a growing human population. Classes include Innovative Insulation, motorcycle Mayhem, Solar Sailing and more. Become an engineer and help Design the Future in a fun and hands on activities environment.

Engineering Investigators

Become a forensics engineer and help Kelvin find out who stole the blueprints for his secret, new design. Using principles of investigative science and forensic engineering, students will analyze evidence in the simulated crime scene using math, science, and technology. Embark on a new journey each day to decipher cryptic clues and biological codes, and help us identify the thief through chemical and mechanical analysis. Time is running out, and Kelvin needs your help!

Robotics: Mission to Mars

During the LEGO® Robotics Mission to Mars classes, students design and program robots to explore an unknown planet, find safe shelter, and collect soil samples from the planet. Students use LEGO® Robotics and computers to learn principles of robotics, computer programming, and teamwork.

Jr. Engineering Of Travel

Guten Tag! Travel the world with Kelvin and our core of engineers as we explore the continents in just five days. Everyone has to travel, and engineers are involved in all the steps of designing different modes of transportation as well as inventing and designing tools that aid in travel. During this camp, students will get their passports and travel to a new country every day by a different means! They will engineer their mode of transportation or tool to aid in transportation daily to get to their destination country. Students will explore areas of engineering such as Mechanical, Civil, Marine, and Aerospace engineering. Join us on an amazing adventure using the engineering design process as we engineer planes, cars boats and rockets to travel the globe and beyond.

Jr. Robotics Lab

The goal of this class is to introduce the students to the concept of what robotics is as well as give the students a chance to build and program their own robots. This class is a perfect mixture of fun and learning, using LEGO® WeDo™ education set. Students will build a variety of robots like an airplane rescue, a giant escape, and a sailboat storm. Students will also learn how to program and operate their creations using a laptop computer.

Jr. Inventors Workshop

We have opened up the workshop for a week of fun, creativity, and of course — engineering! Over the course of a week, students will invent new machines and explore creative design solutions using the Engineering Design Process. Discover how a wind-up toy works and design your own drawing robot inside the Engineering For Kids Inventor’s Workshop. A fun hands on exploration.

Missions & Mechanics (Mechanical Engineering)

This week of camp is all about the missions and mechanics of NASA’s Mars Rovers. Students will take an in-depth look at how the rovers safely land at carefully selected sites on the surface of Mars to carry-out scientific investigations. Students will closely examine the anatomy, tools, and technology the rovers are equipped with in order to understand how their work continues to deepen our understanding of the Red Planet. Each day, classes will use EFK’s Engineering Design Process to engage in exciting, hands-on STEM challenges with real-world connections to NASA and mechanical engineering.

Orbiters and Landers (Aerospace Engineering)

During this week of camp, students will take a comprehensive look at NASA’s landers and orbiters that are currently conducting important research on Mars. We will examine the anatomy of various orbiters and landers in order to gain a deeper understanding of how they assist in the work of NASA’s scientists and engineers. Students will learn about the technology and innovation that is required for aerospace engineers so we can, one day, safely transport human beings to the surface of Mars. Each day, classes will use the EFK’s Engineering Design Process to engage in exciting, hands-on STEM challenges with real-world connections to NASA and aerospace engineering.

Survival on the Red Planet (Multidisciplinary Science & Engineering)

This week of camp is all about understanding the science, technology, and engineering that will make human habitation on Mars possible. Students will learn about the Artemis Mission and how it is paving the way toward the ultimate goal of sending human beings to Mars. Students will explore topics that address humans’ basic needs for survival on the Red Planet, such as water, oxygen, solar energy, and protection from UV radiation. Students will engage in fun and exciting hands-on investigations, experiments, and building challenges. Students will work in teams to design and build a physical prototype of their own Mars base.

Electronic Game Design- Pong-

If you have ever played the common game of Keep Away, then you already have a basic understanding of Pong: Monkeying Around! We will use the Engineering Design Process to create a storyboard that will outline the rules of play and characters for our game based on the basic rules of ping-pong. At the end of the program, everyone takes home a working Windows-compatible game.

Jr. Scratch Space Pioneers Camp

Embark on fun journey to space with Scratch! Send an astronaut to the moon and defend your moon base from space rocks. Learn how to use Scratch to create and program sprites, backdrops and basic scripts. Create a new program each day, leave with evidence of your wild space adventure, and be inspired to explore the universe of programming as a Space Pioneer.

Jr. Engineers Under Construction

Put on your hard hats engineers and join us for our The Engineering of Cities! In this camp, students work hard to apply their knowledge of construction to save the beach from erosion and build their very own city from the ground up. From roads and tunnels to buildings and skyscrapers, students discover that no job’s too tough for an Engineering for Kids engineer!

• Mission to Mars
• Interactive Engineering
• Technology & Coding

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It's like a playground for their mind!

It's fun and educational, it provides opportunities to kids and teaches them about life.

Engineering For Kids classes are so fun and you get to learn new things about engineering each day.

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• Over 45 Amazing Tennessee Field Trips

By Author DaniFNW

Posted on Published: January 28, 2020

Categories Field Trip Ideas , Tennessee

Sharing is caring!

I also love to keep my kids learning when on vacation and with Tennessee being one of our favorite states to visit we have a lot of great Tennessee Field Trips to share on our list. 

Table of Contents

Make sure to check out the rest of our Tennessee Unit Study perfect for getting kids excited for any Tennessee trip and the perfect addition to any road school lesson plan! 

Related:  189 Free Things to do in Tennessee

Table of contents

Pigeon forge and gatlinburg field trips, knoxville field trips, chattanooga tennessee field trips, nashville tennessee field trips, memphis tennessee field trips, other tennessee field trips.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies – Located in Gatlinburg Tennessee the aquarium is one of the best I’ve seen. They are known for their Penguin exhibit but also have a great shark exhibit too. They keep everything fun and educational. Admission to the Aquarium is included in the Smoky Mountains Sightseeing Pass .

Great Smoky Mountain National Park – I love taking the kids the National Parks. Every visitor center has so much you can learn with their museums. Several of the visitor centers in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park had open-air museums, Cades Cove is a large open-air museum too. 

Don’t forget to stop at any visitor center and get your Junior Ranger Books to have the kids to complete. They are very educational and the kids will earn the Junior Ranger badge for that park.

Titanic Museum –  Located in Pigeon Forge this museum looks like the Titanic ship on the outside and inside they keep it all interactive with employees dressed like crew members.

When you enter you re handed a card of a person on the Titanic you can see what their living quarters would be and then at the end find out if they lived or died. There are so many artifacts from the ship as well as a recreation of the grand staircase.  Tickets are included in the  Smoky Mountains Sightseeing Pass .

Tuckaleechee Caverns  – These caverns are under the Smoky Mountains and make a great geology lesson!

Alcatraz East Crime Museum – Located in Pigeon Forge this museum follows the history of crime from the early pirates to the wild west and Wyatt Earp and the OK Corral down to Bonnie and Clyde all the way to drive history up to a year ago. They have a hands-on forensics lab where adults and kids can see how police solve the crimes. 

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad –  Learn the history and legends of the Smoky Mountains while riding though the mountain and taking in the amazing nature views. 

Related:  Top 10 Things to do in Gatlinburg TN

American Museum of Science and Energy – Take a day and get your kids hands-on with science with all sorts of experiments they will love. 

Norris Dam State Park – Located just north of Knoxville this state park has the beautiful views of the dam and history of the dam. There are also several places with local history including an old mill and Civil War museum. 

Ijams Nature Center – Get outdoors at the Nature Center this is a great place for nature walks, wildlife sightings and nature programs. They even have a nature preschool program. 

Coal Creek Miners Museum and Memorial – The coal creek mine disaster happened just outside Knoxville. This was one of the worst mining disasters in our country and killed all but 3 males in town. The museum tells their story and the memorial down the road pays tribute to them. 

Zoo Knoxville – So many ways to learn about animals here its a great way to learn about them and how to protect them. 

James White Fort – This is the pioneer home of Knoxville founder. Learn how the city was established. 

Related:  25 Can’t-Miss Free Things to do in Knoxville TN

Reflection Riding Arboretum – A great place to learn about science and nature all hands on. They have lots of programs for kids of all ages, nature trails, wildlife viewings, and more. 

Chatanooga Zoo – Visiting any zoo always makes a great field trip. Learning about the animals, their habitat and how to protect them. 

Ruby Falls – Another great cavern under a mountain to check out and this one has a waterfall!

Chickamauga National Battlefield   – Checking out the battlefield and learning the history is free, the views it offers of the city are breathtaking! This is a National Park site so make sure to get your  National Park Passport  stamped and take your kids to get their  Junior Ranger badges  as well!

Point Park Battlefield   – Part of the above Chickamauga Battlefield was the site of what is now known as “The Battle Above the Clouds”. The visitors center with history is free but the battlefield tour costs $3 for adults.

Tennessee Aquarium – One of the largest aquariums around with over 9,000 animals. They also have some great animal programs! 

Brainerd Mission Cemetary   – This is a relatively small graveyard of 60 graves. But they are graves of Cherokee Indians that once lived in Chattanooga. This is an official stop on the Trail of Tears.

The National Medal of Honor Museum   – this free museum is a must for any history or military buff!

Related:  26 Free Things to do in Chattanooga TN

Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Museum – This is 7,200 square foot interactive facility with virtual games, and many interactive video games and training equipment. 

Johnny Cash Museum – This museum holds so much music history. From who he knew, his time in the service, and his rise to fame. 

Liveminds Adventure – This is a great family escape challenge which will make you used all your logic skills. A renowned archeologist has gone missing looking for the staff of Moses and you have to find him while avoiding booby traps and more.  

The Hermitage, Home of Andrew Jackson – The home of President Andrew Jackson is right in the Nashville area and you can take a tour of the house and the grounds. The grounds host some of the slave quarters’ foundations, and his gardens where Andrew Jackson and his wife are buried. 

Stones River National Battlefield – This was one of the bloodiest conflicts of the Civil War and lots of history on this battlefield. 

The Carter House – Carter House was the location of part of the battle that let to the Stones River Battlefield and the house tour has some much history even if it is a bit gorry. You can still see where many of the musket balls hit buildings. Then take a walk in downtown Franklin for some historical markers. 

Want to learn more about the Civil War? Check out these 12 Civil War Places to Visit When Studying the Civil War .

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park – This is a park in downtown Nashville by the State Capital that features a lot of state history and memorials. 

Belle Meade Plantation – Known for their racehorses this is a historic plantation in Nashville that also has a winery attached and slave quarters with a lot of history attached. 

Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park – There is a lot of Native American history here along with a great museum. 

The Belmont Mansion – This mansion is famous because it was run by a woman of wealth in a time when woman wasn’t really allowed to own anything. Learn how this came to be and how she started the all-girls school we now know as Belmont University. 

Grand Ole Opry – You can take a tour of the Grand Ole Opry and learn the history of the building, and the people who have walked it. See some of the dressing rooms, learn about the flood that affected the building and even stand on stage. 

Sam Davis House – Sam Davis is one of the unsung heroes of the Civil War and his house is now a museum to not just the Civil War but also the building itself with things like footprints in the brick!

Adventure Science Center – This is an amazing hands-on science center for kids and adults. This was one of the first things we did with the kids and the loved it. 

Cannonsburgh Village   -This this a free attraction and a whole area filled with historical buildings from around the area. Everything from an old mill, homes, churches, barns, and so much more! 

Related:  45 Amazing Free Things to Do in Nashville TN

Fort Pillow State Historic Park -This for located along the Mississippi River just north of Memphis. This is another Civil War fort and you can learn why its location was so important. 

Pink Palace Museum  – Every Tuesday from 1 pm to close this museum is free. This museum got its name from the pink marble mansion that it is housed in. This is the house of Clarence Saunders, founder of the Piggly Wiggle grocery store chain. The museum has many of Clarence’s personal collections and many local exhibits as well.

National Civil Rights Museum – Lorraine Motel – The civil rights movement had a large part in Memphis history and you can learn all about it here. 

Graceland – Elvis was another huge influence in music and his start from being such a poor family to his rise in fame is a great lesson for kids about working hard. 

Center for Southern Folklore  –  Memphis is all about great music, great food and great fun which makes the Center for Southern Folklore one of my favorite things on my list of free things to do in Memphis!

The center is dedicated to “celebrating the arts, music, and heritage of the South from the cultural crossroads of Memphis” which means they often have live music, storytelling and of course, soul-food! Even better? They’re always open for free!

 Related: 21 Can’t-Miss Free Things to Do in Memphis TN  (Including Graceland!)

McMinn County Living Heritage Museum – See how life was for everyone from the Cherokee to the early Tennessee settlers. They have over 30 permanent exhibits and over 10,000 artifacts.

Gray Fossil Museum – If you are talking about dinosaurs or you just have a budding paleontologist as I do then they will love this dig site! They have any hands-on science thing to do and you can tour the dig site and watch the paleontologists at work! 

Jack Daniel’s Distillery Tour – There is a lot of history on how Jack Daniel’s basically built the town of Lynchburg and how to built his company. The tour takes you on the grounds and shows you the process of how they make whiskey and also the water source for their whiskey. 

Backyard Terror’s Dinosaur Park – If you are learning about the dinosaurs this is a great way to get hands-on. The best part is this attraction is free! 

Andrew Johnson National Historic Site – Another President’s homestead you can visit. Andrew Johnson was the 17th president and known as the Defender of the Constitution for his work after the Civil War. 

Old Moore County Jail – Located in Lynchburg this is the old jail where the sheriff used to live in the building with his family and the two jail rooms, one for males and one for females, were attached to the home.

The museum has kept the building intact and now holds exhibits dedicated to the local sheriffs, artifacts from the sheriffs who lived in this house and the original jail cells including where Jessie James carved his name into the wall. 

Johnny Cash has visited this museum and said the jail cells are some of the worst he’s ever seen. There is a small exhibit dedicated to his visit. 

Cordell Hull Birthplace State Park – With a log cabin, true to period gardens, and museum on the 55-acre park that holds over 1,500 books! 

Shiloh National Military Park and Cemetary – Another battle of the Civil War it was a very bloody battle where over 23,000 died. Lots of Civil War history here and it’s an NPS site so make sure to get your Junior Ranger Badge! 

Miss Mary Bobo’s Boarding House – This is now a family dining restaurant but while you are dining on recipes the boarding house is known for you are treated to some amazing history on Miss Mary Bobo and the work she did in town. 

Fort Donelson National Battlefield and Cemetary – The surrender of Fort Donelson was the North’s first major victory in the Civil War. The cemetery was started for many of the Union Soldiers who were buried in the area and now hold many US Veterans. 

What are some of your favorite Tennessee field trips spots? Id love to add to my list! 

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TENNESSEE Field Trips

To help plan APRIL curriculum focused classroom activities, field trips and school assembly programs, these April themed celebrations might be a helpful focus. MONTHLY : Keep America Beautiful. National Gardens. National Humor. National Poetry. Stress Awareness. DAILY : Apr. 2: International Children’s Book Day. Apr. 3: National Geologists Day. Apr. 4: School Librarians’ Day. Apr. 5: Read a Road May Day. Apr. 7: World Health Day. Apr. 8: Draw a Picture of a Bird Day. Zoo Lovers Day. Apr. 10: National Farm Animals Day. Apr. 18: National Scrabble Day. Apr. 15: World Art Day. Apr. 22: Earth Day. Apr. 25: World Penguin Day. CLICK on the ACTIVITY FILTER below for activity type of field trips to learn about. For those unable to travel to these locations, have the fun come to you. Check out the Outreach Field Trips & School Assembly Programs  section.    

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• Living History
• Multicultural & Heritage
• Music, Dance, Comedy & Theater History
• Sports History
• Transportation: Boats, Planes, Trains, & Trollies
• Nutrition, Health & Safety
• Overnights & Retreats
• Agricultural Education
• Aquariums, Marine Life, Hatcheries
• Birds, Butterflies, Bees
• Botanical Gardens & Arboreta
• Caves, Canyons, Mines & Gorges
• Environmental Studies, Outdoor Education, Conservation, Sustainability
• Farms, Mazes, Pick-Your-Own
• Mineral & Gemstone Panning
• Planetariums & Astronomy
• Science Museums & Exhibits
• STEM/STEAM Enrichment
• Zoos, Wildlife, Safari Tours, Reptiles, Animal Shows, Vertebrates
• Community Service Learning
• Art Museums, Design, Exhibits, Photography & Films
• Arts & Crafts
• Arts Behind-the-Scenes Tours
• History of the Performing Arts
• Theater, Dance, Music, Movies, Shows
• Early Childhood
• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School

Alcatraz East Crime Museum

Alcatraz East Crime Museum explores the history of American crime, law enforcement, the justice system and the events that spaced our lives. 

Art Museum of the University of Memphis

Art Museum of the University of Memphis features a collection of Egyptian, African, and contemporary art; and rotating exhibits of contemporary art and culture. Take a tour led by curatorial staff.

Chattanooga Zoo

Students & Scouts explore and learn about exhibits at the Chattanooga Zoo, enroll in a homeschool series for Life Science experience, or even get close up with an educational program.

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Land Between the Lakes offers incredible outdoor recreation and learning experiences through the Golden Pond Planetarium & Observatory, Elk & Bison Prairie, Woodlands Nature Station, Homeplace 1850s Working Farm, and Brandon Spring Group Center.

Memphis Botanic Garden

The Memphis Botanic Garden is dedicated to being an exemplary center for horticulture and environmental enrichment. The 96-acre property includes 30 specialty gardens and a Level 4 Arboretum.

MOSH, Memphis Museum of Science & History

Start your journey of discovery through ancient artifacts, cultural exploration, and amazing science. You’ll find intriguing special events, exhibits, films and more at MoSH, The Memphis Museum of Science & History.  

Adventure Science Center

Adventure Science Center is a science museum featuring over 175 hands-on interactive exhibits with themes plus a planetarium.

Agricenter International

Agricenter International  offers formal and informal learning about agriculture, forestry, and natural resources covering science, technology, STEM and the environment.

American Museum of Science Energy

American Museum of Science and Energy is a science museum focuses about energy, especially nuclear power, and the role Oak Ridge played in the Manhattan Project.

Andrew Jackson's The Hermitage

Andrew Jackson’s The Hermitage is to educate students to understand the life and times of Andrew Jackson and the era named for him. Combine a tour with a Hands-On History experience.

Appalachian Caverns

Appalachian Caverns is well-known caverns with guided tours, ranging from easy to advanced and access to a picnic area. There are also campsites & a gem mine.

Beck Cultural Exchange Center

The Beck Cultural Exchange center features a range of local & national African-American history thru exhibits & artifacts that focus on the pioneers and trailblazers of yesterday.

FieldTripdirectory.com offers enriching experiences for Tennessee school groups, scout groups, homeschool groups, camp groups and families at Tennessee Museums.

Tennessee Museums offer field trips that offer hands-on exhibits, guided tours and guided activities for early childhood through high school grades. Tennessee Art Museums , Science Museums , History Museums , Multicultural Museums and Children’s Museums offers educational experiences that support classroom curriculum and scout badge achievement. Beside museums, you can search for other learning experiences at Botanical Gardens, Planetariums, Living History Programs, STEM & STEAM, Planetariums, Farms, Zoos and Aquariums, Theaters and Concerts, Service Learning and more.

Can’t go on a field trip to a museum, your students, scouts, and families can still experience these fun enriching experience by scheduling a  Museum Virtual Field Trip  anywhere and at anytime.

Want the fun to come to you- book a  School Assembly Programs, Outreach Field Trips or Residency  at your school, homeschool association or scout council. They support and enhance a school’s curriculum, offers opportunities for scout badge achievement and enriches a camp program. There are mobile museum exhibits, traveling planetariums and classroom and grade level workshops and residencies.

To help fund field trips, virtual programs and school assembly programs visit our section on  Grants  and  Fundraising Programs .

  TN STEM Innovation Summit Learning Sessions 2023  

About the learning sessions, scheduled sessions for 2023, day 1 - tuesday, may 16, 2023, learning session 1 - 12:45-1:30 pm cdt.

STEM & Project-Based Learning for Everyone!

Presented by Mike French and Lori Evans from Northview Middle School

Track: Engaging Underrepresented Groups in STEM

Recommended Audience: Elementary & Middle Schools, School Leaders/Admin, District Leaders, STEM/Instructional Coaches

Do you want to get students excited about learning? In this session, participants will explore the amazing projects happening throughout our school and how these projects have created a buzz around learning. Embracing the idea of STEM for All, this rural school has enacted a plan that takes STEM out of the classroom and into real-life. Examine how this middle school has taken project-based learning to another level to engage rural students in vigorous learning. All grade levels are welcome and can receive multiple ideas on how to incorporate projects into everyday learning in all subjects.

Growing Together in STEM

Presented by Jessica Holloway and Nikki Russell from Hamilton County Schools

Track: Community Partnerships

Recommended Audience: School Leaders/Admin, District Leaders, STEM/Instructional Coaches

How can the collective wisdom of STEM/STE(A)M schools be leveraged to connect our work and nurture growth? Our solution was a district-level network to support schools applying for STEM or STE(A)M Designation, in maintaining their designation status, and in preparing schools for redesignation. Join this session to learn how to create your own network, whether it is within a school, district, or region. Designation is not a finish line but rather a point of celebration and acknowledgment of intentional STEM practices in a bigger trajectory of STEM education. This session will include a simulation of a STEM Network meeting and resources to help you get started.

Schoolwide STEAM Days: Growing School Culture

Presented by Jessica Holman and Jake Albright from Green Magnet Academy

Track: School Culture

Recommended Audience: Elementary and Middle Schools, School Leaders/Admin, STEM/Instructional Coaches

Are you looking for ways to build school community and the culture of STEM in your building? A strong school culture can engage students, inspire educators, and motivate community involvement. Join us as we share our STE(A)M Team's process for planning themed schoolwide STE(A)M Days. This session includes how one classroom teacher adapts the general schoolwide plans to meet the needs of his students, as well as the administrator perspective addressing the value of STE(A)M Days in our school. Learn what a themed, schoolwide STEM or STE(A)M Day can do to help your school cultivate a STEM culture. 

Bananas, Drones, and Bots?! Oh My! Increasing Student Engagement with Physical Computing

Presented by Chad Ward and Amanda Gray from Kenwood Middle School

Track: Innovative Instructional Practices

Recommended Audience: Middle and High Schools

Are you wondering how we can use bananas with computer science? Find out at this session! After introducing strategies for implementing physical computing and equipment demonstrations, participants will break into groups to explore hands-on learning stations for equipment such as Arduino kits, Makey Makey boards, Ozobots, Groveboards, and drones. Learn how you can boost engagement and practice computational thinking skills in your classroom. This session is best fit for STEM and Computer Science teachers however, it is open to anyone who is interested in integrating computer science in their classes.

Culture, Careers, Community

Presented by Cassie Cate and Andrea Burnette from Northwest Primary 

Track: STEM Career Awareness

Recommended Audience: Elementary and Middle Schools, School Leaders/Admin, District Leaders, STEM/Instructional Coaches

Do you ever wonder what the best way to build the STEM culture in your school would be? What about building a STEM culture within your community? What types of lessons should you teach that incorporate all of these things? This session will give you tips for doing just that. We will also talk about how building the STEM culture within our community opens numerous doors to introduce students to STEM careers. Explore how we have done this in stages and how we are still working to build relationships within our community to better impact our students. Attendees will review a variety PBLs created by our school to showcase different community partners and STEM careers.

Using Computational Models to Evaluate Weathering and Erosion

Presented by Kattie Stevens from Putnam County Schools

Track: Computer Science

Recommended Audience: Elementary Schools

This session will demonstrate a model lesson from the Reach Them All model lessons. This lesson aligns to second grade science standards of weather and erosion. This lesson integrates computational thinking into evaluating weathering and erosion through the use of computational models. This session will also give a brief introduction to the Reach Them All program and the Computer Science Integration Guidebook.

Le arning Session 2 - 1:40-2:25 PM CDT

The Future Is Female...Fun Coding For Girls

Presented by Michelle Bettis and Nikki Russell from Hamilton County School District

Track: Engaging Under represented Groups in STEM

Recommended Audience: Elementary, Middle, and High Schools, School Leaders/Admin, District Leaders, STEM/Instructional Coaches

Join this session to hear of the secrets to growing a successful girls coding program in a K-12 district. Currently, in Hamilton County, there are 27 schools offering Gig City Girls coding clubs. Whether you are interested in a girls coding club within your classroom, your school, or your district, this session will give you the tools to start your own program. Each year, additional clubs are added in the district. Our team recruits, trains, secures funding for resources and stipends, and supports all Gig City Girls leaders at schools in county. In addition to the behind the scenes details of Gig City Girls, participants will learn coding basics and explore why the demand for this type of STEM learning continues to be vital.

Grant Writing 101

Presented by Gretchen Brown from TSIN

Recommended Audience: Elementary, Middle, and High School, School Leaders/Admin, STEM/Instructional Coaches

Session Description forthcoming.

Dissecting School Culture (and Frogs): Internal & External Structures

Presented by Robyn Trowbridge and Shae Miga from Casen Lane Academy

Recommended Audience: High School, School Leaders/Admin, District Leaders, STEM/Instructional Coaches

In this session, we will share with you how our school has incorporated and then embedded STE(A)M into our school structures, making it an everyday part of our students' experience. Learn about our internal and external structures that are supportive while inspiring creativity and innovative thinking. STE(A)M and 21st century skills go hand in hand with STE(A)M and are also incorporated to strengthen learning and encourage curiosity. Incorporating and embedding STE(A)M is an ongoing process, just like developing a school culture, but work in tandem to build a powerful learning experience. This is why we will all learn and make our own "next steps" for STEA()M together.

Transforming the Classroom Experience with Design Thinking

Presented by Cody Helms and Amanda Dunham from Dobyns-Bennett EXCEL

Design Thinking is often the backbone of problem- and project-based learning. It is the method for research, problem-solving, and solution testing, with a cyclical nature that encourages reflection and refinement. This is a session that will cover the Design Thinking Process across multiple content areas. We will cover strategies that can be applied to any lesson to increase rigor and engagement in the classroom. Examples will be shown of how the Design Thinking Process has been integrated into English, Social Studies, and STEM classrooms at the high school level.

Computer Science: The Science Behind our Why

Presented by Jessica Chambers and Danielle Roderick from Catlettsburg Elementary School

During this session, explore how we have worked to find our "Why?" in Computer Science and take a look at the future of Computer Science Education. Attendees will interact with 3 experiences we have designed to allow you to see, taste, hear, and touch areas of our community that display computer science careers. We will share how 3 teachers came together and created an all-inclusive set of events where teachers could implement computer science education, experience computer science careers, and have opportunities to see computer science within our community.

Now You’re Speaking My Language! How to use computational thinking language in your classroom.

Presented by Amanda Gray and Katie Robertson from Clarksville-Montgomery County School District

Recommended Audience: Middle and High

Are you apprehensive about computer science integration? Do you have questions about what that would even look like? Fear not! From elementary to high school, from English class to Band, learn how you are already using computational thinking in your classrooms and strategies to integrate computational thinking language skills in the future! This session will focus on how to use computational thinking language in your lessons and identify where you might already be doing this. It is strongly encouraged that you bring your laptops or devices to brainstorm and share ideas. Let's collaborate and network to make sure everyone walks away with ideas, resources, and strategies.

Learning Session 3 - 2:45-3:30 PM CDT

Reaching Behavioral Students & GenEd Students with STEM

Presented by Misty Hutchinson and Ashley Stevens from Portland Gateview Elementary

Recommended Audience: Elementary School

What does it mean when you say "STEM for All"? Join this session to learn how to support behavioral needs in emotional and behavioral disorder students with social skills by way of incorporating them with general education students and completing project-based learning opportunities (PBLs). By engaging these students, we are able to give them appropriate coping and social skills while offering them real-world connections and problem solving. Additionally, PBLs incorporate community partners to make the experience richer and more related to the real world. Attendees will also learn how the STEM Workforce Fellowship program will support them in making community partners and stress the importance of community partners in letting students experience other pathways (manufacturing/engineering).

Esports in Education: Making Sense of it All

Presented by Joe Grapes and David Wicker from Jackson Academic STEAM Academy

Recommended Audience: Middle School, School Leaders/Admin, District Leaders, STEM/Instructional Coach

This session will detail creating and implementing successful esports programs at the school level with support from community partnerships. Participants will walk through the process of researching leagues, equipment, infrastructure, and games to help determine the best path forward. We'll also talk about creating partnerships with local gaming communities, corporate vendors, colleges, and esports leagues to build lasting continuity from year-to-year. Lastly, we will discuss is opportunities to incorporate esports into your computer science curriculum and the most beneficial partnerships to make that possible. We've partnered with the Electronic Gaming Federation, Best Buy for Education, and ASUS - Republic of Gamers -- all of whom will contribute to our session. Additionally, learn how we've recently joined with Epic Games to begin training staff and building instruction for computer science.

How to Get STEM Out of a Silo in Your School District

Presented by Ben Di'Chiara and Anna Shelton from Trenton S pecial School District

Does STEM education live a solitary life in your district? Do you struggle to incorporated STEM into general education classes? Or are you just beginning your journey with STEM? Join this session to walk through how to get a STEM program started, implemented, and institutionalized within your school district. Learn from a rural county that has embraced STEM and pioneered new ways to incorporate STEM education across the board and across schools. Explore how to work with leadership to create an open dialogue about STEM education and develop a pathway for embedding STEM. Let's get STEM out of a silo and into hands of eager learners. STEM for all means everyone has access to STEM - All means all.

21st Century Skills: Strategies You Can Use Tomorrow To Engage Students

Presented by Terri Holmes from Howard Connect Academy

Recommended Audience: Elementary, Middle, and High Schools, STEM/Instructional Coaches

Room: 104 C

Most teachers have heard of 21st century skills but some believe they are only used in STEM classes. The benefits of 21st century skills and STEM problem solving methods stretch far beyond the classroom and conventional education. This session will highlight the importance and benefits of STEM in all classes and subjects. It will give practical and usable strategies to implement communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, and choice tomorrow in classrooms. Participants will have ten strategies they can use to engage students in 21st-century skills. These can be mixed and matched them or focus on one per grading period or one a week or work with others on what strategies best suit their students' needs at various grade levels and implement them as needed.

To Infinity and Beyond for All with 3D Modeling

Presented by Latisha King and Shelby Buxton from Arlington Middle School

Recommended Audience: Middle and High Schools, School Leaders/Admin

In this session, participants will learn how to use a Tinkercad and 3D printing in the STEM class for project- and problem-based learning that includes career exploration. Participates will also learn how to engage students beyond the classroom in school clubs and student-peer mentors with special populations (i.e. functional skills).Participants are encouraged to bring a laptop or device to this session because you will learn how to setup a class in Tinkercad and add assignments. Participates will explore the multiple applications for 3D printers, such as exploratory, teaching aids, student-led and student created products across curriculum. As students explore careers in the workforce, student certifications, and community partners, they create pathways for their future. Participants will gain an understanding of how to incorporate field trips, speakers, careers in the workforce and/or community partners to expand career awareness.

Connecting Elementary and High School Students Through Coding and Video Games

Presented by Denise George and Wade Sacca from Charleston Elementary STEAM Academy/Walker Valley High School

Sometimes the most innovative teaching strategy is to let students lead. This learning session will show how both educators and their students can learn coding skills through free online programs. This method is designed to allow students to guide their own learning with facilitation from the teacher and collaboration between elementary students and high school students. This means guiding students through productive struggle and the understanding that mistakes are not failures. We will walk through online guides of coding to build basic block program knowledge. Join us to learn how we have used basic coding with elementary students to high school students building tabletop video games and programming them, to bring computer science to all.

Day 2 - Wednesday, May 17, 2023

Learning session 4 - 10:05-10:50 am cdt.

How to Merge Project-Based Learning into an Already Established Curriculum

Presented by Tori Cottle from Memphis School of Excellence

This session will demonstrate how to merge project-based learning into their curriculums, culminating in a PBL Showcase for all students. Explore how our district designed our "PBL Hub" website for teachers to ensure all student students received access to high quality PBLs. This session will explain how our strategies have worked to engage our population, which is majority minority, urban, and traditionally underrepresented in STEM, in authentic learning experiences. Participants will explore examples of these strategies such as: 1-Demonstrating what a high-quality, authentic PBL looks like for teachers, 2- How to provide time for grade-level/ subject-area collaboration, 3-Ways to integrate PBL into an already established curriculum, 4-How to encourage shared leadership, and 5-Methods for initial resistance to PBLs.

Evolving Education Through Business & Community Partnerships: Proactively Transforming Your School To Transform Your Community

Presented by Jimm Allen and Brooke Carter from L&N STEM Academy

As our world evolves, education is still lagging behind in how we address the needs of our community. Instead of continually asking what our community can do for us, we need to ask what we can do for our communities to better prepare students for the future to be leading citizens in our communities. Through partnerships, we have been able to transform the way that we design curriculum, programming, and how we teach our courses to better prepare students for a world that does not yet exist. This session will provide attendees with examples and a framework they can utilize to begin growing partnerships and engaging students.

Creating a Collaborative Culture

Presented by Kim Inglis and Jessica Codispoti from Black Fox Elementary

Are you looking for a way to strengthen your school's culture and provide your students with relevant developmental strategies? Join us for an interactive session where participants will discover what 21st century skills and Habits of the Mind are and how they can apply them in their classrooms and/or schools. Attendees will learn different methods to help students develop these habits and skills as everyday tools, including the necessary documents to implement these ideas in their school. Participants will also see how these ideas can be applied curriculum.

Game Over: Level Up to be Future Ready

Presented by Miranda Avdyukov and Brittany Mairena from Taylor Elementary

This session will highlight 3 ways to innovate a classroom and get students ready for the future. Join this session to discover how the culture and climate inside my classroom have been transformed by utilizing 3 tools that increase student engagement, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking skills. Through the use of non-permanent vertical work spaces, gamification, and coding inside my math classroom, a shift has occurred within my students abilities and their own belief in themselves. This session will examine how to foster self-efficacy in your students. Attendees of this session will explore game changing strategies and build their own confidence in preparing their students for a future in technology, without being an expert.

I Didn't Know That Was STEM!

Presented by Jack Witt from Karns High School

As high school students prepare to enter either the post-secondary world of education or the workforce, it is vital for them to understand their options for a career path. Over the past year, our school has held 3 separate events to ensure that our students have exposure to STEM related fields and careers. This session will explore how we curated STEM career representatives, organized the event, and how we engaged students. Participants will have the opportunity to begin mapping their own career exploration event with our framework.

When Students Say Algorithm: Exploring the Integration of Computer Science & Computational Thinking in All Content Areas

Presented by Molly Plyler from Jackson-Madison County School System

This session will provide a shared vocabulary for how computational thought is incorporated across disciplines. Attendees will explore how algorithms and other computational thinking components are found in subject areas such as ELA, math, science, social studies, art, music, PE, and more! Participants will leave with a general understanding of computational thinking and resources relate to plugged and unplugged computer science learning activities. Come collaborate with fellow professionals as we unpack how algorithms, computer science, and computational thinking can be used in all content areas for all students!

Learning Session 5 - 11:00-11:45 AM CDT

STEM Innovation Hubs (All Sessions )

Did you know that Tennessee has 7 regional STEM Hubs? These Hubs host lending libraries, professional development opportunities, outreach support, competitions, guidance, and so much more. Find out more about your regional Hub and connect with a phenomenal resource in your area.

Northwest TN STEM Innovation Hub, Dyersburg

Presented by Shawna Adams from Dyersburg State Community College

Northeast TN STEM Innovation Hub, Johnson City

Presented by Alissa Lange from East Tennessee State University

East TN STEM Innovation Hub, Knoxville

Presented by Lynn Hodge and Nick Kim from University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Middle TN STEM Innovation Hub, Murfreesboro

Presented by Kevin Ragland from Middle Tennessee State University

Room: Davidson Ballroom

Southeast TN STEM Innovation Hub, Chattanooga

Presented by Michael Stone from Public Education Foundation

Upper Cumberland TN STEM Innovation Hub, Cookeville

Presented by Darek Potter and Carlos Galindo from Tennessee Tech University

West TN STEM Innovation Hub, Memphis and Jackson

Presented by Stephanie Ivey and Lavitta Means from University of Memphis

Learning Session 6 - 12:50-1:35 PM CDT

Everyday STE(A)M: Sprinkling STE(A)M practices into K-5 classrooms in big and little ways

Presented by Betsy Pillow and Jodie Friedman from University of Memphis Campus School

Are you looking to fine-tune STE(A)M planning in your classroom? Do you want to use more STE(A)M practices in your everyday lessons, but you aren't sure where to start? Do you want to find a way to reach every demographic of student? This session is for you! Attendees will explore strategies for designing intentional STE(A)M in everyday teaching practices to reach all students. Participants will learn strategies for planning, implementing, and highlighting STE(A)M practices in the general education classroom. This session is ideal for participants  who are looking for ways to up the STE(A)M in their classrooms and are looking to make their classrooms hands-on, engaging, intentional, and align with your STE(A)M teaching mission and goals. This is truly STEM for All.

#STEM4ALL - An Innovative Approach to Creating a Culture of STEM Practices

Presented by Brad Foust and Amanda Galbraith from Bartlett City Schools/University of Tennessee

Connecting to real-world challenges in the community requires a transdisciplinary STE(A)M approach to sufficiently address complex problems of today. This session will provide an outline of the strategies a team of 4th grade teachers used to plan, implement, and document learning which invited students to collaborate with each other, community partners, and the local government to propose solutions to community challenges. In this session, participants will consider connections between community challenges, STE(A)M learning, and potential partners both within and beyond their schools. Join us to collaborate about the relevant needs of your community and school.

To Infinity and Beyond with STEM

Presented by Cassondra Bishop and Amanda Taylor from Park View Elementary

Recommended Audience: Elementary School, STEM/Instructional Coaches

Are you looking for a way to engage students while strengthening your school's culture? Consider what PBLs could do for you. In this session, participants will learn how to design a project-based learning (PBL) lesson through hands-on activities. PBLs are a fun, interactive, and engaging way to establish and reinforce school culture. Attendees will have the opportunity to collaborate with other educators over standards integration, cross-curricular activities, STEM careers, problems/questions to be solved, hooks, and the culminating event. These culminating events also reinforce school culture by involving the parents and community partners. Attendees will receive templates and other resources to create their own PBL.

LEGO Workshop: Revamping Rubrics

Presented by Andrew Hardy and Jessica Holloway from Hamilton County School District

Do you dread writing rubrics? Do you agonize while grading student work? Revamping Rubrics is a LEGO based PBL workshop for teachers. During this session, we will play with purpose use LEGOs as a learning tool to reimagine the writing process of a student facing rubric. Participants should be prepared to be hands-on and creative collaborators for this interactive experience.  Participants should leave with a redefined understanding of the value of rubrics and how a rubric impacts the quality of student work.

Defined Learning and Elevate TN

Presented by Aimee Tait and Tamra Billings from Defined Learning/TSIN

This session will explain how you can incorporate Defined Learning (5-8), Defined Careers (6-12), Defined Learning Computer Science (K-12), and Elevate TN (8-12) to help meet challenges in your classroom. With Defined Learning, students get exposure to a variety of careers through hands-on performance tasks. After finding some interests around careers, students can move into Defined Careers where they take on the role of a desired career and complete a hands-on performance task. Defined Careers provides a multi-dimensional career assessment to help determine student interest. Finally, after students have developed interest in a particular career, students can use Elevate TN. This platform uses a multi-level assessment, guiding students into courses that earn industry recognized badges, while learning more about salary, education, and soft skills. These 4 platforms provide steppingstones to a productive and successful skilled pipeline for our students.

Navigating Reading in a CS Classroom

Presented by Kimberly Elbakidze and Ginger Frady from Red Bank Middle School

Recommended Audience: Middle School, School Leaders/Admin, STEM/Instructional Coaches

Imagine being the computer science teacher in a middle school. Now close your eyes and imagine a conversation with your buildings instructional coach, principal, or someone from Central Office, where you are being told you are required to add literature, reading activities, etc. to your class. If you started to panic or had an overwhelming sense of dread, then this is the learning session for you! We will provide you with list of novels, picture books for read alouds, and links to activities which are aligned with Tennessee K-12 Computer Science State Standards for the middle school grade bands. These items will add spice to your Computer Science class and easily fit several standards. So, imagine that conversation again and smile, we've got you covered! Who knew integration could be this much fun?

Learning Session 7 - 1:45-2:30 PM CDT

The Power of Phenomena in the Classroom

Presented by Whitley Troutman and Erin Nunley from Overall Creek Elementary

Need a new and exciting way to engage all students in learning? This session will focus on the importance of using phenomena to drive inquiry-based learning in the classroom. Participants will learn how to implement this real-world skill cross-curricularly. The beauty of phenomena-based learning is that it brings all students, from all walks of life, into STEM with equity and curiosity. We will dig into the purpose, importance, and practicality of incorporating phenomena in the classroom, show examples in which it has been successful, and practice engaging participants in this strategy through the presentation of multiple real-world phenomena. Join us as we venture into the art of inquiry and learn how to teach students to think, wonder, ask, own, listen, and take charge of their learning.

It Takes a Village: Collaborating with the Community to Improve STEM Interest & Engagement

Presented by Melissa Collins and Heather Bryson from John P. Freeman Optional School

In this session, participants will learn how to partner with K-12, higher education, and industries to create a STEM culture that is inclusive for all students. Participants will learn strategies for finding partners, establishing communication, and maintaining community partnership relationships. Attendees will also learn strategies to incorporate partners into their STEM planning and programming. Join us to collaborate and brainstorm about potential community partners in your area and begin building your network.

Presented by Hans Ballew and Stacey Whaley from Northview Primary School

Recommended Audience: Elementary School, School Leaders/Admin, District Leaders, STEM/Instructional Coaches

As an administrator, school culture is an element that cannot be manufactured or faked. It is a balance and requires consistent attention. Schools with a strong culture of STEM are schools that find success even through adversity. But how does that STEM culture keep going once it's been established? One way to keep the excitement for STEM alive is to keep something big in the queue. We will discuss the 3 new things our school has lined up for this year and how that has affected our culture. We will begin with a look at integrated units of study, follow up with a look at our Reading Walk, and finish with the first phase of creating an interactive school! Come join in the discussion and hopefully come away with a new idea to implement at your school.

America's Classroom: Exploring our National Parks through STE(A)M

Presented by Krystal McReynolds and Kim Bradley from Abraham Lincoln Elementary School/George Washington Elementary

Recommended Audience: Elementary, Middle, and High Schools

Join us to learn how we created a summer STE(A)M program that allowed our elementary students to visit some of our nation's most beautiful and inspirational National Parks. Attendees of this learning session will explore how meaningful PBL units were created. These PBLs afforded students the opportunity to learn about specific United Nations Sustainability Goals and then create authentic solutions to park specific problems. Explore how using National Parks as a topic in STE(A)M education not only builds academic knowledge, but also helps students develop environmental connections that will last a lifetime. Learn how to incorporate meaningful activities, literature, and core concepts across grade and ability levels. Join us on an expedition to bring National Parks to life for today's students.

Youth Engineering Solutions: Designing a Medicine Cooler for Power Outages

Presented by Stacy Klein-Gardner and Andre White from Youth Engineering Solutions/Freedom Middle School

Recommended Audience: Middle School, STEM/Instructional Coaches

A pressing demand for high-quality, standards-aligned engineering and computational thinking (CT) curricular units that engage underrepresented and under-served middle school students exists. Youth Engineering Solutions (YES) materials engage students in real-world engineering problems. Students experience how computational thinking, mathematical analysis, and scientific concepts can strengthen design ideas and solutions. Participants will learn about YES strategies for integrating socially relevant and standards-based science and engineering into their classrooms through the YES Medicine Coolers unit. This unit, grounded in the science of thermal energy, asks students to use the EDP to design a medicine cooler for people who lose electricity. Participants will test and make plans to improve student-built medicine coolers.

Using Computational Thinking to Research Famous Inventors

Presented by Jessica Chambers from Catlettsburg Elementary School

This session will demonstrate a model lesson from the Reach Them All model lessons. This lesson aligns to fourth grade social studies standards about historical figures. This lesson integrates computational thinking into an evaluation of historical figures using research and through the use of abstraction. This session will also give a brief introduction to the Reach Them All program and the Computer Science Integration Guidebook.

Learning Session Focus Areas

School culture.

A school culture is intangible, but it’s essential. This track will explore strategies for creating a shared sense of purpose and value, instructional norms of continuous learning and improvement, and collaborative relationships that drive a STEM school culture.

Innovative Instructional Strategies

Classroom learning can be highly engaging when infused with innovative STEM instructional strategies. In this track, participants will explore effective and unique classroom techniques to enrich traditional curriculum.

Community Partnerships

When schools and community organizations collaborate to strengthen student learning outcomes, everyone benefits. In this track, strategies for intentionally selecting and engaging community stakeholders will be shared.

STEM Career Awareness

Mastering the skills necessary for the jobs of the future is essential in preparing students for the future. In this track, the employability skills students must possess to be successful are identified along with practices to promote post-secondary success.

Engaging Underrepresented Groups

Ensuring traditionally underrepresented populations of students have access to quality STEM teaching and learning experiences is a critical step to ensure STEM for All. In this track, key strategies for expanding access to STEM education for specific groups of students will be shared.

Computer Science

Computer Science is emerging as an integrative part of high quality STEM instruction cutting across all grade levels and content areas.  In this track, participants will discover innovative strategies and ideas for integrating students’ exposure to computer science and computational thinking concepts and skills as part of rigorous instruction.

Pre-Recorded Sessions for 2023

Rural STEM Education Toolkit

Presented by Cedric Bunch, Sarah Combs, Dean Sain, and Kathryn Vaughn from Haywood County Schools / Sumner County Schools / Hardenman County Schools / Tipton County School 

In 2022, TN Rural Stem Alliance Task force gathered information from stakeholders across TN to identify strategies to support implementation STEM education in rural communities. This session will discuss the findings of the Task Force, the resources available in the Rural STEM Toolkit, and establish best best practices. Join us to hear from educators across the state.

Effortlessly Teach Coding with Ozobots While Integrating STEM With Zero Background Knowledge! 

Presented by Jerry Lynn Recker from Memphis Academy of Science and Engineering

Recommended Audience: Elementary and Middle School

Are you excited about teaching computer science but worried that you aren't prepared to teach coding and computer programming? Look no further! This session will provide an easy-to-follow curriculum, resources to teach coding, and strategies for learning the skills! Additionally, you will learn how to preview your new code in JavaScript! This presentation will show participants how to create an attachment to help an Ozobot strategically remove litter and pollutants from the environment. Participants will learn how to borrow a set of Ozobot Evo for FREE! Last but not least, participants will gain insight on how to 3D print accessories for Ozobot Evo. Join us and learn how to make coding fun while infusing STEM, math, and ELA!

Building an Effective Digital Fabrication Lab

Presented by Emily Hurst and Andrew Hardy from Hamilton County School District

If you're looking for a way to increase community engagement, build excitement around learning, and strengthen family participation, then you've found the right session. This session will discuss how do all these things and more by holding a STEM/STEAM night. Learn how to create student-run STEM activity stations that inspire interest in STEM and help students build confidence and gain leadership skills.

‘Mini-Lessons’ for K-8 STEM and STEAM Engagement

Presented by Lily Donaldson, from Art Technically

Recommended Audience: Elementary and Middle

This session takes educators on a journey using their expression of Pixel Art and integrate it into their own nostalgic video game using Microsoft Make Code! Pixel Art allows creative learners to bring their customized and unique artistic ideas to the digital gaming realm. Integration of Pixel Art into Make Code allows an educator to transform standard formative and summative assessments into student expressions that are fun and engaging for all shareholders; allowing one to interact with their imagination. Coding skills can range from block-based coding to languages such as Python and JavaScript. Success is guaranteed in this session!.

From PixelArt to Arcade in the Classroom

Presented by Claudeen Dennings and Clair Williams McGhee from Metro Nashville Public Schools

Recommended Audience: Middle School

Participants will view artifacts created with Turtlestich, a free, online coding program to prepare them to then learn the basic steps of coding with the program. Everyone will choose what to create based on assignments provided for different content areas and grade bands. If time and session participation permits, participants will work through the whole process and actually embroider their own fabrics! This new learning will prepare participants to incorporate TurtleStitch (or other, similar coding programs) into their classroom, no matter the subject. It also provides participants with a unique and versatile PBL resource.

Reimagining Spaces for Learning

Presented by Jessica Holloway from Hamilton County School District

Does the environment where you learn affect how you learn? That is the focus of this learning session. This session focuses on reimagining what learning spaces can be with a tour of innovative spaces across Chattanooga. Hear from teachers how innovative learning spaces set the stage for learning and how it impacts student experiences. Participants will see a variety of learning spaces and get inspiration for designing their own innovative learning space.

Why No Sidewalks: Intersecting Social Studies & STEM

Presented by Andrew Fultz and Katie Roy from South-Doyle High School

Recommended Audience: High School, STEM/Instructional Coaches

In this session, we will walk-through our PBL and explore how teachers can take a community problem, achieve student buy-in, and seek to solve that problem in front of a real-world audience. For our school, sidewalks reflect deep historical developments, such as suburbanization, the rise of the automobile, and the Interstate Highway Act. Using Design Thinking,  students emphasize that cars are expensive, obesity has increased in America since the 1960s, and automobiles produce pollution. The only alternative is public transit, but it's not easily accessible due to the lack of sidewalks. Therefore, Social Studies brings the empathy and STEM provides the solution to this community problem. Come explore our findings with us!

Building a Computer Science Classroom Community

Presented by Betsy Pillow and Jessica Hernandez from University of Memphis Campus School

This session will begin with a discussion session about what computer science education means to them and their schools. Then, participants will then take a virtual tour and demonstration with different types of technology (Wonder Dash Robot, Sphero Bolt, LEGO web site/ LEGO build, BeeBots, QUBOs). This session will close with an example of a lesson idea for each type of technology to support integration of computer science/coding into general education classrooms.

Creating Their Future One Career at a Time

Presented by Jessica Chambers and Brittney Carr from Catlettsburg Elementary School

This session is a creative time for educators to learn and explore how CTE in the high school setting can become a Career Day in a K-6 school. We are currently executing a plan, created this year, for a shared Career Days where our students choose, explore, and are presented with a variety of STEM careers from community partners. We will share hands-on activities for careers such as Criminal Justice, Emergency Services, Veterinary Science, Sports Broadcasting, and professions that involve transportation and community needs. This presentation will include how to share with your students their options and create opportunities for exploration of careers during the regular school day setting. Participants will receive scheduling ideas, lesson examples, and how this creates community wide relationships that are mutually beneficial.

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Introducing Luke Miller

We are excited to announce the hire of Luke Miller as the new head coach of the high school wrestling program.

Coach Miller comes to Nashville Christian from Cheatham County Central High School where his coaching responsibilities include Boys Wrestling, Girls Wrestling, Baseball and Football. During his 6 years at Cheatham County Central, Luke has assisted in sending 33 Wrestlers to the State Tournament across all weight classes. He currently teaches in their Special Education Department. Coach Miller will teach in the LIFE program at Nashville Christian and will also assist the US Baseball team.

Luke is married to Megan Miller and they have 1 son (age 1 year).

Coach Miller is a Graduate of Austin Peay University and will join NCS as a full-time teacher for the 2024-2025 school year.

The Upper School Rope Holder of the Week is…Ms. Bentley Canady

Her peers shared:

Ms. Canady has been a great addition to our faculty this year. She brings energy, excitement, and humor to her classes along with creating an environment for learning. She connects easily and effortlessly with her students. She has shown a willingness to share ideas freely with others and to seek advice when she needs it.

Bentley has had a lot on her plate this year including helping coach soccer, finishing her master's program and, as a teacher new to the profession, every class she has is a brand new prep.  However, you would never know any of this by watching Bentley interact with her classes. She engages with her students using humor and kindness, and they respond to her so well. She consistently looks for ways to create engaging yet challenging opportunities for her students.

NCS is blessed to have her!

Congrats Ms. Bentley Canady!

2023-2024 Athletic Awards

The 2023-2024 NCS Athletic Awards presentation recognized Students in 3 categories: 

SCHOLAR ATHLETES - 98 students maintained a 3.5 or higher GPA; 

IRON ATHLETES - 26 students participated in 3 or more sports during the 2023-2024 season; and 

SENIOR ATHLETES - 39 Seniors participated in 1 or more sports during the 2023-2024 season. 

Congratulations to all EAGLE honorees!

Event Center Construction Update 4/16

Hoping these pictures will help you start to visualize how the Event Center will act as a connector to join existing buildings, including the Upper School and MPR and the Lower School and Gibson. 

NAHT Presentation

Thank you to the Nashville Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition (NAHT) for hosting a parents meeting last night and for returning today to speak with Upper School students.

And a special thanks to the two main speakers, R.A. Dickey and Christina Meadows.

5th Annual Shooting Clay Tournament Winners

Thank you to the Sponsors and Participants in yesterday's 5th Annual Sporting Clay Tournament! 

Shout out to Captain Mark Willoughby and team members Dave Williams, John Willoughby, Dakota Duke, Hunter McCoy, Clay Rougemont for their 3-Peat Performance as the Winning Team. 

Always a fun event!

Kristen Boatman, New HS Volleyball Coach

Nashville Christian School is pleased to announce the hire of Kristen Boatman as the new head coach of the high school girls’ volleyball program.

Coach Boatman has 16 years of experience coaching volleyball at both the Club and School levels. Since 2018, she has coached at Harpeth Hall. During this past season, she was the Interim Varsity Head Coach serving as Varsity Assistant the prior years. While coaching at Harpeth Hall, the volleyball team had 6 consecutive state appearances in 2A, Division II. Additional coaching responsibilities include Hillsboro High School and Lipscomb Academy. She currently holds the record as the Winningest Coach at 2 Clubs in the Nashville area

She is a 2004 NCS Graduate and shared, “I want to contribute back to the community that raised me. My athletic experiences during my time as a student at NCS were some of the most influential experiences in my life.”

Coach Boatman is a graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

3.21.2024 Construction Update

3.21.2024 Event Center Construction Update - Some photos were taken from the Football Field exit facing the back of the current gym. In others, you can see the back of the current MPR and the side of the Lower School. And we can't forget to mention capturing a shot of one of the Nashville Ready Mix Trucks!

The Upper School Rope-Holder for the Week

The Upper School Rope-Holder of the week is…Ms. Anna Grace Brons!

Her Peers Shared:

Anna Grace has a been such a wonderful addition to the counseling department.  She is full of joy and grace.  She relates so well to our students.  You can tell that they feel comfortable coming to her and talking to her.  They know that they can trust her to help them with whatever they are facing. She brings a peace and positive energy to the counseling department and to our student body. 

Ms. Brons has worked hard to get to know her students in her first year at NCS! She spends time with students each day, helping them talk out their problems and find solutions. Students feel comfortable talking with her and she is a positive influence on the students she serves. She provides an example of an optimistic outlook from a Christian perspective and is a great role model for our students.

Congratulations Ms. Anna Grace Brons!

The Faculty Excellence Award Winner

NCS is proud to introduce the Faculty/Staff Excellence Award Winner for the past 9-weeks... Jeanne Graham.

Patience, kindness, and a calm nature...when I think of Jeanne Graham these words immediately come to mind. When I see her with students, she always takes the time to stop, look, and listen to them...no matter what is going on. She rolls with whatever happens and is quick to step in where needed.

Everyone needs a Jeanne Graham in their life! Jeanne is a true gem. She is so caring and has such a peaceful presence. Not only is Jeanne an amazing teacher, but she is also a wonderful friend. She is always there if you need a listening ear, advice, prayers, or a hug. Jeanne has a servant's heart and radiates the love of Christ to others.

Jeanne is such a wonderful inspiration of patience and Godly love towards everyone she encounters. When I watch her interact with students, I am in awe. She is such a calming presence. At all times, Jeanne directs me to Christ with a kind word or a scripture. I am thankful she is in my life. She is a valuable asset to NCS!

Jeanne is a rock! She is solid in her faith, grace-giving, a great communicator, thoughtful, and authentic. I am grateful to work alongside this teacher every day and love to see her be the hands and feet of Christ with her students and colleagues.

Jeanne is always there to help if I need it. She always notices others and keeps up with students and coworkers well.

Mrs. Graham has been nothing but an incredible example of Jesus for the children she has taught over the years.It is an honor to work alongside someone who carries out the true character of a teacher with a calling. She is such a light, and she radiates the mission of NCS!

Mrs. Graham is such a calm and nurturing presence within our school. She is a constant source of encouragement for her students and her fellow teachers as well. Most importantly, she puts Christ first in her classroom. There is nothing sweeter than watching our 3rd graders learn and memorize scripture through sign language.

Jeanne always has an encouraging word and is a fierce prayer warrior. I am blessed to call her friend and coworker!

Congratulations Mrs. Graham!

The Upper School Excellence Award Winner

NCS is proud to introduce the Upper School Excellence Award Winner for the past 9-weeks…Hal Reasor.

His Teachers Shared:

Whether it is a smile, a nod, or a fist bump in the hallway, Hal is always excited to interact with others. He is a great young man who makes everyone's life better! His smile lights up a room, and we all loved watching him be the star of the Senior/ Faculty Basketball game. Hal always has a smile on his face and a great attitude, and I am proud of the young man he is. Hal always gives 100%. He tries very hard in everything that he does. He always has a smile for everyone he meets and has a great sense of humor. I have had the pleasure of working with him throughout his high school career, and it has been such a joy to see the growth that he has made.

Hal makes everyone's day better!

Hal has been walking our hallways since middle school. Every day throughout those years, he walked the halls with a smile and greeted everyone with a nod. Hal always seems to have a positive attitude, no matter what his struggles may be. He is a model for all of us as we strive to stay positive when we have hard times. I am grateful that Hal has been a part of our campus for so many years and I know that we have all benefited from our relationships with him.

Congratulations Hal!

The Middle School Excellence Award Winner

NCS is proud to introduce the Middle School Excellence Award Winner for the past 9-weeks... Sloane Williams

Her Teachers shared:

Sloane is an excellent student and friend. She is kind to all, and her smiles brighten up our hallways. She is a hard worker and an asset to the middle school.

Sloane has a happy heart, works hard, and has a great presence on stage. She is an excellent example of an NCS student because she is willing to try new things, is happy to support her friends, is respectful always, has a great sense of humor, and does it all quietly to the glory of God.

Her positive and respectful attitude and behavior with others and teachers are to be commended.

Sloane has completely blown me away with her amazing talent as a singer. She has been in the Middle School Choir, in both Talent Shows, and in multiple theater productions. I believe she is one of the most talented students in the entire school, and I am thankful that I get to work with her.

Sloane is hard-working, respectful, and works well with others. She is trustworthy, thoughtful, and easygoing. She is active at NCS outside of the classroom, giving her time and talents to the play, and both the golf and track teams.

Sloane comes to class each day with a bright smile and a positive attitude. Her gentle and kind spirit is a blessing to each of her classmates and teachers. She works well with everyone, gives her best effort on everything and quietly leads our classroom in how to serve others.

Sloane is always there to step in whenever she is called upon and is a great example to other students. She is always pushing herself to participate in different activities to expand her skills and love for all that she does. She has been such a blessing to have in our theatre department. She always has a smile and shines in all she does. She is the prime example of what it is to be an NCS student.

Congratulations Sloane!

The Lower School Excellence Award Winner

NCS is proud to introduce the Lower School Excellence Award Winner for the past 9-weeks…Faith Holland.

Her Teachers Shared:

Words commonly used to describe Faith are: respectful, patient, remarkably kind and empathetic, ready to learn, ready to help, hard worker, and strong work ethic. She gives consistent effort in all areas.

Faith never complains, she is a wonderful example to her peers.

Faith is joyful and practices joy by putting others before herself.

Faith is an exceptional student who never fails to impress. With her positive attitude, she sets a high standard for herself and inspires others. She makes sure everyone feels included and valued, creating a supportive and welcome environment in the classroom. Her dedication and compassion make her a true asset to the Fifth Grade Family.

Congratulations Faith!

The NCS Student Ambassador Leadership Team (SALT) consists of 5th - 12th grade student leaders who represent our student body and Mrs. Shelton's office at a variety of events throughout the year.  

They also have the unique opportunity to meet with leaders from the Nashville community who have been tasked with teaching them characteristics of leadership.  

This week, they had the opportunity to meet Governor Bill Lee and Senator Shane Reeves who spoke on the topic of Servant Leadership. 

Upper School Spring Retreat

This past weekend 76 Upper School students attended Spring Retreat. The theme was based on Psalm 23:6, "Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." 

God blessed the weekend with good weather, lots of fun, and three students declared Jesus as Lord in baptism. 

On Monday, we celebrated those students in an assembly as we prayed for their new walk with Jesus.

The Upper School Rope-Holder of the Week is...Mr. Andrew Atkins

The Upper School Rope-Holder of the week is…Mr. Andrew Atkins! 

His Peers shared:   Mr. Atkins' commitment to his students' academic growth and personal development is truly commendable. His innovative teaching methods not only engage students but also foster a deep understanding of complex concepts. Andrew's dedication extends beyond the classroom as he consistently goes above and beyond to support his students, whether it's through one-on-one assistance or creating inclusive learning environments. Andrew Atkins embodies the qualities of an exceptional educator, and his impact on the school community is invaluable.

Year after year, Mr. Atkins quietly does so many important things behind the scenes. He attends countless athletic events because he is supervising the students behind the streaming cameras. He keeps us abreast of advances in classroom technology, and if you have a question about Google, he probably has your answer. Mr. Atkins also still looks for new and creative activities to challenge his students each year.

When our students return to campus after they have graduated, they always mention Mr. Atkins in a positive light and appreciate the challenges he provided for them to prepare them for college. I never doubt that Mr. Atkins will hold the rope, whatever is asked of him!

Congratulations Mr. Atkins!

PreK-12th Chapel during Christian Emphasis Week

A Special PreK-12th Grade Chapel during Christian Emphasis Week included the Kindergarten Class (and Kindergarten Teachers) teaching the words and hand motions of Psalm 23 to the Senior Class.

Construction Update 2/15/24

The Upper School Rope-Holder of the week is…Coach Kobe Davis!

The Upper School Rope-Holder of the week is… Coach Kobe Davis!

His Peers Shared:

From the day he started, Coach Davis has jumped in and exemplified servant leadership. His positive attitude and eager spirit are noticed by the students, and he is influential in our community. He is a great addition to Nashville Christian; we are lucky to have him!   

As a basketball coach, he has formed great relationships with the boys on the team while having their respect as their coach.  His enthusiasm and love for what he does is evident every day. He is always willing to go the extra mile to meet our students' needs. We are honored to have him in our NCS family. 

Congratulations Coach!

NCS Theatre Department Members are headed to New York

Members of the NCS Theatre Department are headed to New York this week and will be performing at Lincoln Center on Sunday, February 18th as part of The Manhattan Broadway Concert Series Production of Children of Eden.

NCS Theatre was invited and students auditioned to be a part of this opportunity to perform alongside Broadway professionals. Our students will be performing as a part of the ensemble which vocally supports the story being told. 

NCS Students attending are Rebecca Hansen, Jackson Eatherly, El Sheehan, Mia Ryckman, Sam McWright, Hailee Elizer, Hollie Horner, Ellie Cook, Caleigh Posavac, Abby Hurley, Helen Morton, Harmony Sanders. Not pictured: Zeke Eckert, Maci DiPasquale

We are extremely excited for the opportunity presented to NCS Students. For more information about the performance: https://www.mcp.us/upcoming-events/2024/2/18/children-of-eden-in-concert-zz3sp

The Upper School Rope-Holder of the Week

The Upper School Rope-Holder of the Week is…Mrs. Leann Fergueson

Her Peers shared:

Mrs. Fergueson is always eager to jump in when anyone needs help. So much of what goes on here at NCS wouldn't be possible without her hard work and heart for this school. She frequently offers a listening ear to many of our students. We are so lucky to have her here at NCS!   

Since joining our staff this year, Mrs. Fergueson has been a calm and pleasant presence at the front desk. She handles students, teachers, and parents with grace and kindness. She is always professional.  

Mrs. Fergueson came to NCS this year as a new employee. While she has only been with us for a few months, it feels like she has been part of our NCS family for a long time. She is willing to help anyone and ALWAYS presents a positive presence for our students and families who come to campus!

Congratulations Mrs. Fergueson!

NCS Class of 2021 Alum, Julia Thompson

NCS Class of 2021 Alum, Julia Thompson, is one of 9 UT- Knoxville students selected to attend Super Bowl LVII as a member of the Big Orange Combine. 

This group was created to allow students to work at the largest sporting event of the year and visit companies in the area of the hosting city. 

During the Super Bowl Weekend, Julia and her cohorts will meet and connect with various athletic and business entities. In an article in the Knox County News Julie is quoted as saying "Networking with professionals there will put us ahead even after college."  

Click here to read more https://www.wate.com/news/knox-county-news/9-ut-students-earn-once-in-a-lifetime-chance-to-attend-super-bowl-lviii/

Seniors vs. Faculty Basketball Game

Another Seniors vs. Faculty Basketball Game is in the Books! 

Faculty with the WIN! 

Final Score Faculty 63 - Seniors 37!

The Upper School Rope Holder of the Week

The Upper School “Rope-Holder” of the Week is…Ms. Sonja Shelton

Sonja is an expert at the balancing act of holding students to high standards to be their best selves and also having a strong enough relationship with them that they can confide in her.  This is no easy feat!  

Sonja has been a great assistant coach, a great champion for the seniors in her new position, and a great asset to the school. 

Sonja is not only a rock star as the College Counselor but is also a wonderful coach. Her middle school players adore her.  She cares deeply for her players and wants the best from them.  

Showing what a true team player she is, she wore an NCS School Uniform for today's “Throwback” Coming Home Dress Up Day and agreed to stand in front of her 2017 Class Composite for her Rope-Holder picture!

Congratulations Ms. Sonja Shelton!

Coming Home Attendees and King

Congratulations to the Coming Home Attendants 

Seniors: Anna Pierce and Brandon Smith, Jaleigh Powell and Tan Nguyen, Jenna Baggett and Bowen Grohovsky.

 Juniors: Ellie Calvert and Lawson Andrews. 

Sophomores: Ellie Johnson and Landon Travis. 

Freshman: Poppy Duke and Paxton Nash. 

Brandon Smith was crowned the Coming Home King!

Basketball, Wrestling and Cheer Seniors

Congratulations to the Basketball, Wrestling and Cheer Seniors who were honored last night with their families during Senior Night.

Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees

Congratulations to the newest inductees into the NCS Athletic Hall of Fame from the Classes of 2010-2014. 

Pictured below: Brooks Taylor, Nick Walker, Savannah Womack McKay, Kayla Baker, Kendall Lewis. 

Not Pictured: Tori Hulan, Thomas Lance, Haley McCormack Dean, Cody Hartley, Jacob McDowell, Dakota Priest, Corey Givens, Jacob Burns, Jason Emery, Bryant Fox, Jenna Graham, David Hill, Natalie Irwin, Nealey Espinoza, Bailey Maddox, McCarty Forte. 

We loved having several of the inductees plus additional family members back on campus!

NCS Alum Tollie Boone

We are happy to announce that NCS Alum, Tollie Boone, will be designing the lighting for the NCS Production of Seussical JR as a contract employee for Irwin Entertainment. 

Tollie is currently working as a technical theater professional in NYC and her schedule allows her to come back for our show. Tollie started her theater experience at NCS in Kindergarten. 

It’s always great to have Alum back on campus!

Upper School Teacher of the Week...Coach Andrew Shaw

The Upper School Teacher of the week "Rope-Holder" is...Coach Andrew Shaw!

His peers shared:

Coach Shaw quietly goes about his job with the passion of a hurricane. He loves his students and wants them to constantly push for improvements. He's tough, but his students respect him and love him for it. He places himself in the middle of the students during chapel, holding them responsible for the sanctity of the chapel moment. He is constantly interacting with his students in a caring way. He holds the Rope every week!

Coach Shaw is driven to do everything he does to the best of his ability. More than that, he truly cares about the success of his students. He challenges them to be better each day and pushes them to achieve things they may not have thought they could accomplish. He builds relationships with them and is a model for our students through his leadership in chapel, small groups, and his support of our athletic programs.

Congrats Coach Shaw!

Faculty/Staff Excellence Award Winner for the past 9-weeks…Coach Ronnie Seigenthaler

NCS is proud to introduce the Faculty/Staff Excellence Award Winner for the past 9-weeks…Coach Ronnie Seigenthaler!

His peers shared: Coach Seig epitomizes what a positive attitude looks like. His optimistic outlook towards circumstances is both refreshing and contagious. He defines a true servant leader by giving so much of himself unselfishly to NCS and the athletic department in time, effort, and action. This is why he inspires me, why he operates in excellence, and why I consider it an honor to call him Coach Seig and my friend.

Coach Seig is the epitome of what it truly means to be an eagle. He is devoted, driven, impactful, and mindful. He is always positive and I enjoy our constant banter. He takes pride in being called the new Donnie Keeton of Nashville Christian School and I am forever grateful that he has stepped into that role. He is supportive, caring, kind, and one of my favorite parts of Nashville Christian. I am thankful for Coach Seig’s leadership and guidance throughout my first years here.

Coach Seig is by far the best boss, colleague, and friend I could ever ask for. Not only is he a rich resource for valuable professional growth, but more importantly he is a friend who is compassionate, supportive, and genuine. It is clear by his daily actions, routines, and habits that he truly loves and cares for Nashville Christian and the faculty, staff, students, and families that embodies it. I am forever thankful for our relationship.

Coach Seig is one of the most passionate individuals I've ever had the pleasure of working with. His desire to win, grow, and motivate is infectious. He will always be my first phone call when trying to fill a golf foursome. I'm honored to call him my friend.

Coach Seigenthaler organizes his team in a great way to accomplish what is necessary and also completes so many detailed tasks on his own to support the athletic program. He greets the officials, sets up the venue, manages the student section, supports coaches, assists the visiting team, and ensures that every event is conducted well. He has a vision for athletics and always looks to improve...and he does all of this with only a number 2 pencil and a legalpad. He is a blessing to our campus!

I have had the pleasure to know Coach Seig from a student perspective as well as a coworker. Coach Seig was the most positive, energetic teacher that I remember from my high school years. I have watched Coach Seig impact so many students’ lives throughout the years. When he went to Brentwood High School and made his mark in the world of girls basketball, I admired him from afar. A smile would always cross my face when his name was brought up. Then, as God does, he moved in amazing ways to bring Coach Seig to NCS.  As a colleague, I was quickly amazed at how Coach Seig became the epitome of a team player. There was never a task too big or too uncomfortable that he was unwilling to conquer. However, I was utterly amazed to watch him grow our track program. He is the EPITOME of TEAM, COMMITMENT, PASSION, PERSEVERANCE, CREATIVITY, and SELFLESSNESS.

Congrats Coach Seig!  

Upper School Excellence Award Winner...Bailey Reagan

NCS is proud to introduce the Upper School Excellence Award Winner for the past 9-weeks…Bailey Reagan!

Bailey is one of the kindest and most respectful students I have ever had. She goes above and beyond with all that she does inside and outside the classroom. Her classmates know they can come to her with questions, and she will always be there for them.

Bailey goes above and beyond what is asked of her, is always willing to help explain concepts to her peers, and has a great attitude every day.

Bailey is an extremely hard worker who pursues excellence in everything she does. Whether she is writing a term paper, filling water bottles for the boys' basketball team, or working at a coffee shop, you can rest assured that Bailey is going to put forth maximum effort, and the work is going to be excellent. As successful as Bailey is at everything she does, her humility, kindness, and compassion are the character traits that draw others to her. Bailey is a blessing to everyone who knows her and works with her.

When I think of a portrait of a Nashville Christian student, Bailey has all of the qualities to represent this "picture." Integrity, character, manners, academic fortitude, work ethic, and determination are just a few qualities that come to mind. I have had the privilege to teach Bailey this year in Bible, and I appreciate her thoughtful, reflective responses. I look forward to seeing Bailey's success next year in college. She is prepared and has the will to succeed.

Congratulations Bailey!

Middle School Excellence Award Winner...Brady Irwin

NCS is proud to introduce the Middle School Excellence Award Winner for the past 9-weeks….Brady Irwin!

His Teachers shared:

Brady is a person of integrity and shines in and out of the classroom.

Brady is a joy in the classroom and helps others, leads by example and genuinely enjoys learning. While he is quiet by nature, he leaves a large impact by being authentically good.

Brady is a hardworking and honest student. He sets a good example for his classmates and teammates. He is a genuine friend, a reliable student, and an ideal representative of NCS character expectations. He is a light in our middle school hallway!

Brady is exceptional and strives to do his best every day he steps into the classroom. He has a positive attitude and is a great leader in his class. In addition to all of these great attributes, he treats his classmates and peers with respect and is always willing to offer a helping hand.

Brady continuously displays the utmost level of respect for both his peers and teachers. He models perfect behavior in class while contributing appropriately to classroom discussions and activities. He is kind to everyone around him, and we are blessed to have him here at NCS.

Brady is dependable, caring, respectful, and a great role model for his peers. He brings a fun, competitive spirit to the ESports Club while keeping a humble attitude.

Congratulations Brady!  

Lower School Excellence Award Winner...Lydia Burba

NCS is proud to introduce the Lower School Excellence Award Winner for the past 9-weeks…Lydia Burba.

Her teachers shared:

Lydia has a heart for others. Her feelings are big especially when it comes to serving the less fortunate.

I love to hear Lydia pray...her prayers are pure and from the heart.

This year, Lydia asked to organize a coat drive to help those in need. This is just one example of how she is always thinking of others. What a servant for the Lord she is to come up with that idea and make it happen!! Lydia has a heart of gold. She is an excellent example to her peers and we are so thankful she is at NCS!

Lydia loves the Lord with her whole heart and it shows! She takes the initiative to make NCS a better place than it already is. She challenged my class to be extra thankful during November. She also single-handedly created a service project for December! She is already changing the world. I can't wait to follow her as she grows! She's an inspiration to us all!

Congratulations Lydia!

Ellis Drake HS Basketball Coach of the Game

As the winning bidder on last years Auction item "HS Girls Basketball Coach for a Game" Ellis Drake fulfilled his duties well last night and helped lead the Lady Eagles to a Victory! Looks like he had a great time!

National Honor Society Inductees

Congratulations to the 2024 Junior Class Inductees into the National Honor Society: Libby Carter, Ellie Cook, Ansley Demonbreun, Maci Dipasquale, Aubrey Hollahan, Hollie Horner, Isabella Jennings, Ben Kubiak, Kat Lacy, Sam McWright, Helen Morton, Addison Oberbreckling, Hunter Primm, Mia Ryckman, Vasili Santas, Cameron Tiller.

Construction Update January 5th, 2024

Coach Brothers took a group of Staff Members for a "behind the scenes" look at the Event Center Construction site today. 

We even got to wear hard hats in the Construction areas! A lot of work took place over the Break. 

Shout out to 2022 NCS Alum, Josh Strickland Jr.

Shout out to 2022 NCS Alum, Josh Strickland Jr. He and his teammates at Harding University won the Division II championship on Saturday. Congrats Josh!

Congrats to 2023 Alum, James Warmbrod, IV

Congratulations to James Warmbrod IV, this weeks Mountain West Indoor Track and Field Men's Freshman Athlete of the Week.

James won the 400-meter dash at the Air Force Holiday Open with a meet-record time of 48.63. His time leads the Mountain West and ranks 30th in the NCAA.

Dec. 7th Construction Update

LS Principal for the Day

As the Top Earner in the Fun Run, Gatlin Wakefield is the Lower School Principal for the day. 

One of his duties this morning was helping with traffic duty where he was heard to say "I can't feel my ears but I'm ok!"

Upper School Teacher of the Week

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is... Mrs. Mariah King.

Mariah is always willing to step in to get the job done. The variety of tasks she completes is vast. She tends to bumps and bruises while pouring into students mentally, socially and spiritually.

Mariah consistently goes above and beyond. She develops deep relationships with our students. She is a great listener, encourager and mentor.

Mariah wears many hats from teacher, photographer, small group leader, coach and nurse. She is a true blessing to both the faculty and student body.

Congrats Mariah!!!

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is… Mrs. Rose Valdez!

You would never know Mrs. Valdez was a first-year teacher at NCS. She has incorporated herself into the life of the school and built relationships with her students.

Being new to a school can be daunting but Mrs. Valdez has thrown herself into NCS and the community here. She has helped chaperone the bonfire and the US Fall Retreat, attends sporting events and has already developed good relationships with students.  She is kind and holds her students to a high standard.

You can tell Mrs. Valdez is excited to be here and we are thankful she is!

Congrats Mrs. Rose Valdez!

Nov. 28th Construction Update

Cherie Stivers Abner

Last night NCS Alumni, Cherie Stivers Abner, coached what is believed to be the first-ever Tennessee game with both boys basketball teams coached by women. 

Cherie coaches for Westmoreland and Katrina Carter is the Hunters Lane boys coach. 

Westmoreland won 53-40. 

Congrats on Making History!

Nov. 20th Construction Update

The Upper School Teacher of the Week

The Upper School Teacher of the week is … Ms. Stephanie Harper.

Ms. Harper has worked so hard for months for the school accreditation. She handled the additional responsibilities with grace while teaching a full load of classes.

Ms. Harper is always willing to help her coworkers with whatever they need.

I am ever thankful for Ms. Harper's advice and friendship.

Ms. Harper is a hidden gem on this campus and we are lucky to have her!

Congrats Ms. Harper!

Coach Jeff Brothers

Congratulations to Coach Jeff Brothers, recipient of the 2022-2023 TSSAA A.F. Bridges Award for Male Coach of the Year for District 5.

This award recognizes traits associated with Mr. A.F. Bridges, the TSSAA's first executive secretary.

Mr. Bridges displayed firmness and fairness as well as the high ideals of ethics and integrity. This also accurately describes Coach Brothers.

We are blessed to have Coach Brothers at NCS!

11.8.23 PM Construction Update

11.8.2023 PM Construction Update -  We love having Nashville Ready Mix at the Construction site!

Middle School Girls Soccer

We are SO PROUD of this year's MS Girls Soccer Team plus the history of the Program. 

Check out these AMAZING stats.

11.8.23 New Construction Update

The Upper School Teacher of the week is… Coach Gary Van Atta.

His peers shared: Coach Gary Van Atta is a new addition to our staff this year, but it feels like he has been here for years. It is obvious that he loves his job and loves working with students and getting to know them.

Coach Van Atta has become a true NCS EAGLE since day one. I hear him each morning say, “It’s a great day to be an Eagle.” 

Coach Van Atta will do whatever is asked of him and go above and beyond, even in the smallest tasks. He is always positive, and it has encouraged me to do the same. 

Congrats Coach Van Atta!

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is... Mrs. Abbie Moroney!

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is … Mrs. Abbie Moroney.

Her  Peers shared:

I have sat in on Mrs. Moroney’s class several times this school year and each time students have been engaged and I have also learned a thing or two.

Mrs. Moroney is always more than willing to help and surpasses all the requirements when assigned a task.

Mrs. Moroney is personable and a very equipped educator.  

Mrs. Moroney’s response is always, "Oh, I can help with that."  

We are so lucky to have her on our team.  Congrats!

October 25th New Event Center Construction Update

A few pictures from today! Progress continues!

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is...Mrs. Amy Payne!

Mrs. Payne has been instrumental in building our AP Math courses. She spends a lot of time outside of school building these courses, all while in Grad School.

Mrs. Payne teaches in a way that makes very difficult concepts understandable to her students.

Even students who are not huge fans of Math say that Mrs. Payne is, hands down, their favorite teacher.

Congrats Mrs. Payne!

October 18th Event Center Construction Update

Check out a few pictures from today!

Rock Band Performance

The NCS Rock Band performed during today's Pep Rally. GREAT JOB!!!

The Faculty/Staff Excellence Award Winner for the first 9-weeks…Katie Ryckman.

Katie wears many hats and does so with EXCELLENCE! She holds down the fort in the lower school front office, writes tardy slips, keeps everything organized with labels, post-it notes, fun signs and posters. She is the best!

Katie is the ultimate team player. She is a proficient coordinator, a reliable consultant, and an irreplaceable cog in our machine.

Katie daily exemplifies professionalism, efficiency and integrity.

Congrats Katie!

The Upper School Excellence Award Winner for the first 9-weeks…Kate McClary!

Her teachers and coaches shared: Kate is an excellent student. She collaborates well with her classmates and contributes important ideas to discussions.  She is always respectful and willing to work.

Kate plays sports with a humble heart and a good Christian attitude.

Kate is a natural leader. She leads in a quiet manner which is very positive and effective.

Kate always works hard, she always welcomes a challenge, and she always supports and loves her teammates. I cannot wait to see all that she accomplishes in this life.

Kate is an excellent young woman, and I am proud to call her a Lady Eagle.

Congratulations Kate!  

The Middle School Excellence Award Winner for the first 9-weeks….Easton Ellis!

NCS is proud to introduce the Middle School Excellence Award Winner for the first 9-weeks….Easton Ellis!

His teachers shared: This is Easton’s first year at NCS and he is already making an impact. He comes to class eager to learn. He is kind and respectful and gets along well with his fellow classmates.

Easton understands how to make his first year at NCS a great one: find your people, work hard, and most importantly stay committed to who God has called you to be.

Easton always has a smile on his face. He is kind to others and has a quick sense of humor.

Easton knows how to joke and have fun, but also understands when to stop. This self-control is beyond his years as a middle school student.

Easton treats everyone with kindness and consideration, creating a positive class experience. He is a great addition to our already amazing small group.

We are so glad Easton has joined out Nashville Christian community.

Congrats Easton!

The Lower School Excellence Award Winner for the first 9-weeks…Sarah Johnson

NCS is proud to introduce the Lower School Excellence Award Winner for the first 9-weeks…Sarah Johnson.

Sarah was nominated for being a role model for excellent behavior and achievement in everything she does. She is gentle and kind and a joy to be around.

Her teachers shared: Sarah always tries her best. She strives to have a positive attitude and sets an amazing example for her peers.

Sarah loves to leave notes to say thank you or just have a good day. I am truly blessed to have taught her.

Sarah is a special gift to our small group. She is a great role model for the younger students in our group. She has a patient, gentle, calm and supportive nature.

This scripture describes Sarah’s spirit: Don’t hesitate to be enthusiastic – be on fire in the spirit as you serve the Lord! Romans 12:11

Congratulations Sarah!  

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is …Mr. Michael Peters.

It has been a joy working with Coach Peters over the past year. He makes learning fun with both humor and knowledge.

Coach Peters has done well establishing relationships with students across a number of different grade levels.

Coach Peters teaches the Bible boldly and clearly to our students and is a great rope-holder to our faculty!

Congrats Coach Peters!

Sept 25 Event Center Construction Update

Another Busy Week!

Upper School Rope Holder of the Week...

This week's Upper School Rope-Holder is ... Blake Mauldin.

Mr. Mauldin is an amazing teacher. Not only does he take on the role of music teacher/director, he assists in a huge way with the theater department.

Mr. Mauldin works to grow multiple programs at NCS - Band, US and MS Choir, and Rock Band. He never misses a beat (literally!)

He carries the rope for himself and for others and does everything with joy!

Congrats Mr. Mauldin!

Take a Titan 2 School

Thanks to Channel 2, MTSU, and Hattie B's for sponsoring "Take a Titan 2 School" and for picking Madden Sanders as this weeks' recipient! 

The 5th Graders had an Amazing Morning with Malik Willis and Hattie B's provided an amazing lunch for them!

MTSU Dean of the College of Education, Neporcha Cone and Malik joined in this group photo!

September 19th Construction Update

More construction progress being made in the area between the US and LS Buildings. 

HUGE MACHINERY!

Homecoming Dress Up Day 4

Homecoming Dress Up Day 4 Theme was Soccer Moms and BBQ Dads.

The Girls Soccer Team went all out! Seniors remain in the lead!

This week's Upper School Rope-Holder is...Ms.Rachel Bartlett!

In addition to showing her Eagle spirit by dressing for today’s Homecoming Theme, her peers shared:

Ms. Bartlett has added an AP class and a Senior Girls Bible class to her work load this year. She prepares her students for difficult material and is always available when needed.

Ms. Bartlett never fails to exceed the expectations placed upon her. She handles many things gracefully and without complaint.

Ms. Bartlett is a valuable member of our community.

Congratulations Ms. Bartlett!!!

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is ... Ms. Katie Sholl.

Ms. Sholl is a leader among our teachers. She is part of the "Training Trio," spending extra time supporting other teachers while managing her own load of AP classes.

Ms. Sholl has rigorous expectations for students while making classes enjoyable.

Congratulations Ms. Sholl!

Change is in the air...

Check out some of the recent changes underway on the NCS Grounds in preparation for the NEW EVENT CENTER...

Upper School Teacher of the Week...August 24th

This weeks Upper School Teacher of the Week is… Mr. Jim Carlucci.

His Peers shared:

Mr. Carlucci has taken on more than a full load of classes to help a coworker and to keep our kids on track for the year.

Mr. Carlucci is always willing to go the extra mile and he does it without complaint. He just jumps in and helps. He is the epitome of Christian service.

We are so blessed to have him on our campus.

Congratulations to this weeks Rope-Holder, Mr. Carlucci!

Upper School Teacher of the Week August 17th

This year the Upper School Teacher of the Week Award will be known as the “Rope-Holder”.  Recipients will be awarded a graduation cord to wear for the week.

The first Upper School Faculty/Staff Member of the week for the 2023-2024 school year is… Mrs. Janet King. 

Janet King is the definition of perseverance. She has worked endless hours over the Summer and the start of the school year to train two new Counselors and make the class schedule for each US student (not an easy task). 

Mrs. King puts the needs of others first and she is always available to answer students questions. She is devoted spiritually and is a great example of a Christ-like woman. I am very fortunate to work with Mrs. King and look to her as a positive example in my life.

Congrats Mrs. Janet King!

Class of 2024

First Day back for our Seniors. We are so excited for this class!

The 2023-2024 SALT (Student Ambassador Leadership Team) assembled this weekend for a retreat to kickoff the new school year. 

We look forward to watching them lead this year!

Gary Van Atta joins NCS as Head Girls' Basketball Coach

We are excited to announce the hire of Coach Gary Van Atta as the new head coach of the high school girls’ basketball program.

Coach Van Atta has 44 years coaching experience at the high school, junior college, and four-year collegiate (NAIA, D-1, and D-II) levels. He spent the last 7 years as the Head Women’s Basketball Coach at the University of Montevallo (Montevallo, AL) where he had coached earlier in his career. During his UM career, Coach Van Atta compiled an overall record of 244-161, the winningest coach in program history. His career also includes Head Women’s Basketball Coach positions at UT Martin and at his alma mater, Trevecca Nazarene University.

At the conclusion of the 2022-2023 season, Van Atta ranked 12th among active NCAA Division-II head coaches with 565 wins and was the winningest active coach in the state of Alabama.

Coach Van Atta is known as a great teacher of the game and is well-known throughout the basketball community. In addition to coaching, he will work in our Fitness department, teaching high school Strength Training.

Van Atta shared, “I am excited for this next chapter. I love basketball and I will continue to teach and grow the game.”

Coach Van Atta joins Katie Beth Allen and Mariah King who will continue in their roles as assistant coaches. 

Track and Field State Champion, James Warmbrod

Congratulations to James Warmbrod IV, STATE CHAMPION in the 400 Meter Dash with a time of 49.13!

James also placed 3rd in the State 200 Meter Dash with a time of 21.97 and 6th in the State 100 Meter Dash with a time of 10.94!

Faculty/Staff Excellence Award Winner

The Administration is pleased to recognize Bill Miller as the Faculty/Staff Excellence Award Winner for the past 9 weeks. This information was shared:

Sarge goes above and beyond to create an environment where we feel safe.

Mr. Miller is such an asset to our community. He not only makes the safety of our children a top priority he also has a calm, reassuring presence.

Sarge shows quiet confidence, vocational capability and Godly character. He is well-connected and stays current with local news and reports so that he can be proactive. He is a man of character of integrity, but more than that is a man who loves God and values the Christian education that NCS provides.

We are so fortunate to have Sergeant Miller on our campus and a part of our NCS family.

Congratulations Mr. Bill Miller!

Upper School Excellence Award Winner

The Upper School faculty, staff and administration is pleased to recognize Cathy Phung as the Upper School Excellence Award Winner for the past 9 weeks. This information was shared:

Cathy is such a bright light at NCS. You can always count on her to greet you in the hallways and give you the biggest smile. She is determined to always do her best and will do the right thing even when no one is watching. She is involved in everything here and she perfectly represents the mission of NCS. The way she encourages those around her and her wellness to go the extra mile is inspiring.

Congratulations Cathy Phung!

Middle School Excellence Award Winner

The Middle School faculty, staff and administration is pleased to recognize Eli Adams as the Middle School Excellence Award Winner for the past 9 weeks. Several Teachers submitted statements to explain his bright light in our hallways:

Eli daily gives his best in all that he does. He is always quick with a polite, kind word. He is inspiring!

Eli is one of the most respectful, attentive, and kind students we have in the middle school. He cares about his peers and is diligent in all he does.

Eli is very creative and a great artist as well.

Eli is incredibly thorough in all his work and continually strives for excellence.

Eli is a true example of what authentic and dynamic leaders look like.

Congratulations Eli Adams!

Lower School Excellence Award Winner

The Lower School faculty, staff and administration is pleased to recognize Eliza Melton as the Lower School Excellence Award Winner for the past 9 weeks. Several Teachers submitted statements regarding her performance and positive attitude:

Eliza is full of positive energy all day, every day.

Elisa is a ray of sunshine. She always has a positive attitude and a sweet spirit. She is encouraging to her classmates.

I love having Eliza in Spanish class. She is always ready to work and will volunteer to help whenever needed.

When I think about our student pledge Eliza is all of these things!

Congratulations Eliza Melton!

Habitat for Humanity Build

NCS participated in its first Habitat for Humanity build on May 6th and 7th.  

Generously sponsored by Thrivent Financial, a group of thirteen faculty, staff and students worked alongside future first-time homeowners to frame two homes during the weekend.    

Leaders from Habitat and Thrivent met with the students several times before the build, explaining why Habitat exists, why this work matters, and why it is important to serve.    

Senior Jack McIntosh (pictured below) said, "It was so much fun working with my friends, doing something we've never done, to bless a deserving family.  It made me feel great!"  NCS is planning to participate in another Habitat build next year.  

Upper School Teacher of the Week...Ms. Rachel Bartlett

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is ... Ms. Rachel Bartlett.  

Her Peers shared: I have heard countless alumni complement Ms. Bartlett and tell her they are doing well in college because of what she taught them in high school. 

She seeks new ways to engage her students and structures her lessons so everyone's needs are met. 

We are lucky to have her as part of our math department. Congrats Ms. Bartlett!

2023 Auction

The 28th Annual NCS Auction was held this past Saturday with the theme Evening Under the Stars. 

Guests were treated to beautiful decorations, a great catered meal, photo booth, rousing Online and live auction and a Writers' in the Round. 

It was a great night of fun!

Emma Sharlow

Congratulations to NCS Junior, Emma Sharlow, First place winner in the 2023 District 7 Congressional Art Competition sponsored by the U.S. House of Representatives and District 7 Congressman Mark Green. 

This competition recognizes one student in each Congressional District across the Country. 

Emma's work "Typography Matthew 10:7" will be hung in the US Capital building for one year. By placing first, she has been invited to attend the special reception in Washington, D.C. and also qualifies for a number of scholarship opportunities. 

Congratulations on this accomplishment Emma!

Five 2023 Senior Girls Records

Shout out to these 5 LADY EAGLES: Millie Boone, Charley Harper, Julia Belle Sisemore, Grayson Bonds, Ava Pomeroy. 

During their high school years, all participated in both Basketball and Soccer and accrued many RECORDS in those sports. Julia Belle and Ava also added a State Track Appearance to the list. 

Congrats to all!

2023 Spring National Honor Society Inductees

We are proud to present the 2023 Spring Inductees into the National Honor Society: Seniors - Millie Boone, Mitchell Frankum, Jr. Juniors - Lauren Agee, Jenna Baggett, Charlie Brothers, Ainsley Dancer, Mayz Delavergne, Margret Dobbs, Zeke Eckert, Hailee Elizer, Jacob Ellis, Bowen Grohovsky, Ariana Guy, Raelyn Heightman, McKenzie Jennette, Hannah Johnson, Raegan Johnson, Aubrey Kimbro, Zoja King, Reagan Locke, Wyatt Martin, Kate McClary, Damon Mos, Kailey Nichols, Bridgett Page, Megan Parker, Ty Petty, Cathy Phung, Anna Pierce, Bailey Reagan, Walter Reisinger, JT Robbins, Jaelynn Simmons, Brandon Smith, Daniel Whitaker, Neely Woodard .

Senior Class Easter egg hunt

Today the Senior Class participated in the Annual Easter egg hunt. They had a BLAST!

NCS Middle and Upper School Art Show Award Winners

Congrats to the students who received Top Awards in the Middle and Upper School Art Show. Upper School Awards include Most Awarded: Art 1 - Abby Hurley Art 2 - Ansley Petty Art 3 -  Megan Parker Art 4 - John Draper

Principals Award - Megan Parker (Clown) Best in Show Faculty - Bridgett Page (Truck) Best in Show Overall - Ansley Petty (Airplane)

There is  a lot of excitement in the NCS Visual Arts Department over the upcoming High School and Middle School Art show which is Sunday, April 2nd from 2:00 - 4:00. 

The reception and awards ceremony is at 2:30. 

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is.. Mrs. Amy Payne. Her Peers shared: Mrs. Payne works every day to ensure her students have time to meet with her and master the content. The classes she teaches are not easy and students are challenged, but supported through her efforts. She pushes students to reach their full potential. We are blessed to have her in our Math Department. Congratulations Mrs. Payne!

Mrs. Julie Littrell, Faculty Excellence Award Winner

Congratulations to Mrs. Julie Littrell, Faculty Excellence Award Winner for the past 9 weeks!

Her Peers shared: Julie always goes above and beyond! She is an amazing teammate. 

She gives so much of her time and energy to the drama department, helping with the plays. She works to provide the best experience for her students each day. She has a servant heart. 

Julie's blood bleeds NCS orange and blue. She is an incredible Kindergarten teacher. She truly loves NCS and we love her!

Congratulations Mrs. Julie Littrell!

Cutler Stubblefield, Upper School Excellence Award Winner

Congratulations to Cutler Stubblefield, Upper School Excellence Award Winner!

Teachers shared the following: Cutler is always willing to help other students understand the material, always polite and respectful to both students and teachers. 

He is one of the most positive students I have taught. 

His kindness is infectious and I know it makes those around him have a better day. Cutler never misses an opportunity to say a kind word, lend a hand, or go the extra mile.

Congratulations Cutler!

Will Gibbs, Middle School Excellence Award Winner

Congratulations to Will Gibbs, Middle School Excellence Award winner for the past 9 weeks!

Several teachers submitted statements to explain the bright light Will exhibits in our hallways: He has been a calm, kind, and solid presence in and out of the classroom. I've been impressed with his self-control, honesty, and desire to do the right thing no matter the situation. Will is a natural leader! Will has a constant smile on his face. He shows leadership in the classroom by his quiet spirit and respectful behavior. We love having him as part of our NCS middle school!

Congrats Will!

Knox Brim, Lower School Excellence Award Winner

Congratulations to Knox Brim, Lower School Excellence Award winner for the past 9 weeks!

Characteristics used to describe Knox include Mature, Respectful, Kind, Encouraging, and Mindful.

His Teachers shared: Knox is extremely respectful and kind to all. He is on task all the time, ready to learn, and ready to do his work. I can always count on him to listen and participate. He is kind to his peers and to his teachers. He is a great addition to the theatre family. Knox is a pleasure to have in class - he brings me joy every day! Congratulations Knox!

Charley Harper

Congratulations to Charley Harper for being chosen the Bellevue Exchange Club Student of the Month. 

Charley is joined by Terry Scott, Karen Whelan and Stephanie Harper.

BCAT District All Academic Team

Congratulations to Charley Harper, Whitley Miller, Grayson Bonds, Millie Boone, Reese Dugger, Ava Pomeroy, Julia Belle Sisemore for being selected to the Basketball Coaches Association of Tennessee District All Academic Team. 

To qualify for this award, they maintained a 3.5 GPA or higher for their academic career. 

They are truly Scholar-Athletes!

Optimist Club Essay Contest Winners

Three NCS Students were winners in the Bellevue Optimist Club Essay Contest and were recognized in a ceremony last night. 

Ava Rudolph (8th Grade) received 3rd place. Kathryn Rogers (12th Grade - not pictured) received 2nd place. 

Charley Harper (12th Grade) received 1st place. 

Congrats to Ava, Kathryn and Charley!

Middle School Small Groups

Middle school small groups went to the lower school and preschool this morning and taught Bible lessons as part of Christian Emphasis Week.

They did many things including putting on skits, singing songs, and coloring together!

Christian Emphasis Week begins today

Christian Emphasis Week begins today at NCS. 

Campus Minister, Jeff Palk, introduced the Theme: Jesus is King in a special Upper School Chapel. 

Small groups were encouraged to sit together and many groups had a special prayer at the conclusion of Chapel. 

Can't wait to see what this week brings.

The Upper School Teacher of the Week...

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is ... Coach John Pierce.

I have only heard good things about Coach Pierce as both a Coach and Teacher.

Coach Pierce has been a great addition to both the Bible Department and Basketball program. His daily interactions with students on campus is excellent.

Coach's Basketball players respect him and agree to the high standards he has set for the program.

We are blessed that NCS students have the opportunity to learn from Coach Pierce.

Congratulations Coach Pierce!

National Merit Finalist...Brett Posavac

Nashville Christian School is excited to announce Brett Posavac has been named a National Merit Finalist. 

The nationwide pool of finalists represents less than 1% of U.S. high school seniors and includes the highest scoring entrants in each state. 

Brett plans to attend Belmont University and study Pre-med. 

Congratulations to Brett Posavac!

Donovan Smith

Congratulations to Donovan Smith for being selected to represent NCS as the Scholar-Athlete, Middle Tennessee Chapter of the National Football Foundation. 

This award recognizes Donovan's outstanding Academic Achievement, School and Community Leadership and Football Performance. 

Donovan is pictured with Steve Hutchinson and Kelly Holcomb.

Congratulations Donovan!

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is...Mrs. Nicole Arnold

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is ... Mrs. Nicole Arnold!

Mrs. Arnold has proven she has a long-term commitment to NCS. She is a "fan in the stands" and a leader on stage.

She takes on a number of roles on campus including being a Dual Instructor and working with the theater department.

Mrs. Arnold put a lot of work and research into the Harlem Renaissance cross-cultural unit which several classes participate in. We are grateful for all her hard work!

Congratulations Mrs. Arnold!

State Wrestling Results

Thanks go out to Jaden Potts and Peyton Woodard for setting the benchmark for future NCS Wrestlers to follow. 

Jaden finished Runner-Up in the 220 weight class and Peyton finished 5th in the 195 weight class.

Their dedication and hard work showed in their State Performance. Congrats!

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is... Coach Mike McPherson.

His Peers shared:  Coach McPherson's commitment to the school extends beyond the classroom. While watching sports in person is great, hearing his play-by-play commentary makes the game even better. Families and friends have come to rely on his one-of-a-kind color commentary!

Our freshman appreciate the wit and humor Coach brings to the classroom. We are privileged to have him at NCS.

Coach Mike is a legend!

Gregory Williams

Alum Spotlight - Gregory Williams - NCS class of 2016

Gregory will be attending the University of South Alabama College of Medicine in the Fall. 

He graduated magna cum laude from UAB with a degree in Biomedical Science. 

Gregory has helped publish 3 scientific papers on colorectal cancer and hopes to pursue a specialty in Hematology/ Oncology.

Congrats to Gregory on his accomplishments thus far; we look forward to more great things to come!

The Upper School Teacher of the week is... Mr. Ian Harris

His Peers shared:   Mr. Harris works diligently and never complains. He models servant leadership daily.

He has worked hard from day one stepping on the NCS campus. He has taken time to get to know the students and find various methods for teaching them math. He spends so much time coaching and mentoring the high school and middle school wrestling teams. 

He has spent countless hours coming up with new projects for his physics class to help them not only understand the material but to put it into practice.  Congrats Mr. Harris!

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is... Ms. Stephanie Harper.

Ms. Harper was my mentor during my first year at NCS and continues to be a mentor to me.

She is quick to help with any problem or question and offers endless aid when it comes to teaching students to be better writers.

Her students love her, and she holds them to a rigorous academic standard.  

She is a leader, a sounding board, and a friend.  We are blessed to have her on our team. Congrats Ms. Harper!

NCS Alum, Tollie Boone

Ncs alum, tollie boone joins the creative team for the off-broadway run of cat on a hot tin roof this spring.

NCS Alum Tollie Boone is a senior lighting design student at Samford University. 

This spring, Tollie is headed to New York City to design the lighting for the Off-Broadway return of Tennessee Williams’ Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, at the Theatre at St. Clements, Feb. 24-March 3. She will be joining Samford’s assistant professor of theatrical design, Christian Specht. 

The opportunity came about through Specht’s connections in the industry. “I knew if I got the contract, that I wanted to figure out how to bring Tollie along as an assistant lighting designer,” said Specht. “This is such a great opportunity for Tollie to gain real world experience while accomplishing her senior capstone.” He praised her work, “Tollie has an eye for design. She can see what lighting ideas and moments can do to create an atmosphere.”

This opportunity is allowing Boone to realize her goal to design lighting on Broadway. “When I was younger, I wanted to be on the stage but as I’ve grown in the technical world, my dream is to design lights for Broadway shows.”  She is looking forward to “meeting people in the field and to feel the energy and excitement of the professional setting.

Tollie enjoys lighting design and notes, “Lighting has always been fascinating to me. I am also an artist and I enjoy painting. With lighting it’s very similar to painting but in more of an abstract sense. With lighting I am able to create a world with color through light and shadow to help encourage a story and its setting. I still get excited when I design in new spaces because it challenges my limits.”

Excerpt from original Article published January 10, 2023 by Ashley Smith, Marketing and Communication Manager, Samford University.

100th Day of School

Kindergarten Classes Celebrate the 100th Day of School Today!

Upper School Transition Breakfast

8th Grade Students and Parents were out bright and early this morning for the Upper School Transition Breakfast. Thanks to everyone for coming!

January 22nd Preview Day

It may be gloomy outside but the sun is shining inside NCS at todays Preview Day.

Thanks to all the families who visited. We loved meeting you!

2023 Seniors vs Faculty Basketball Game

2023 Seniors vs Faculty Basketball Game. Faculty WINS 58 to Seniors 42. Congrats to the Faculty!

Upper School Teacher of the Week...Cristin Bryan

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is ... Ms. Cristin Bryan!

Ms. Bryan always stops whatever she is doing to help others and lend a hand. She will do whatever it takes to solve problems and supports her students academically and personally.  

She consistently seeks new ways to engage her students in learning. She takes the time to develop relationships with them, and they know she cares.  Our students are so lucky to have her pouring into their academic and spiritual lives!

Congrats Ms. Bryan!

Coming Home Court

NCS "Coming Home" Celebration included the Presentation of the Court and crowning of the King...Donovan Smith!

Hall of Fame Inductees

Congratulations to the Winter and Spring Hall of Fame Inductees from the Classes of 2000-2009

Brandon Hodge - class of 2000 - Wrestling Josh Belcher, class of 2001 – Basketball & Baseball Jeff Bolander - class of 2001 - Football & Soccer Ryan Harris, class of 2001 – Football & Basketball Justin Lowry, class of 2001 - Basketball & Baseball Meredith McGinnis, class of 2001 - Volleyball & Basketball Lauren Evan La Rue Kuet, class of 2002 - Basketball James Meadows, class of 2002 – Football & Wrestling April Piper, class of 2002 – Basketball & Track and Field Chris Coleman, class of 2003 – Football Matthew Pace, class of 2003 - Football & Basketball Ashley Womack Say, class of 2003 -  Basketball & Track and Field David Anderson, class of 2004 – Basketball Brandon Bridges, class of 2004 - Wrestling Grant Sandler, class of 2004 -  Bowling Ashley Ingram Skinner, class of 2004 – Basketball Jay Skinner, class of 2004 – Basketball Amanda Stinnett, class of 2004 - Cheerleading & Bowling Chris Walker - class of 2004 - Basketball Haley Light Breedlove, class of 2006 – Cheerleading & Softball Andy Givens, class of 2006 – Basketball Jessica Womack Grogan, class of 2006 – Basketball Holly Lewis Haynes, class of 2006 – Basketball Eric Vick, class of 2006 –Track and Field Brittni Walker, class of 2006 –Basketball & Track and Field Davis Fleming, class of 2007 - Golf Russell Frazier, class of 2007 - Basketball Cassie Hutcherson Hardy, class of 2007- Softball Alex Jenkins, class of 2007 - Bowling Wesley McDowell, class of 2007 - Baseball Kathryn Surber, class of 2007 - Basketball Caden Anderson, class of 2008 – Basketball Woody Hartley, class of 2009 - Baseball

US Teacher of the Week

Congrats to Mrs. Katherine Lee, Upper School Teacher of the Week.

Mrs. Lee works with the freshman and sophomore classes with patience and grace.

Not only is she helpful with students around campus, she is also readily available to answer questions all while setting up programs across campus.

She interacts with each student compassionately and responds to her colleagues with similar kindness and helpfulness.

We are lucky she is part of our NCS family.

Congrats Mrs. Lee!

Excellence Chapel

Today was a very special day at NCS with Excellence Chapel where Grades K4 - 12th gathered together. Songs were sung, a lesson was given including a visual of Large and Small, and awards were given out to Excellence Award Winners for the second nine weeks. 

Innovative Models of Mitosis

Mrs. Moores' 7th and 9th Grade Students made Models of Mitosis from Oreos and Sprinkles. Who Knew! 

YES: Youth Equipped to Succeed

NCS was blessed today to have 2 Former College and Professional Football Players, Keith Davis (USC and New York Giants) and Jamar Reid (UTEP and Seattle Seahawks) speak to the Lower, Middle and Upper School students and faculty in three assembles.

They are part of YES:Youth Equipped to Succeed which has the goal of "Growing value and vision in youth by combating isolation and imparting hope."

The message they shared was excellent…

Art-Driven Leadership Project

Ms. Donna Torrez pulled out all the stops today as she taught an Art-Driven Leadership Class to Faculty and Staff Members as a part of Personal Development.

Each person was tasked with painting an Eagle (of course!) and a surprising amount of talent was shown. 

Credit is given to Ms. Torrez for her fantastic Teaching skills!

Pre-K Christmas Program

Family and Friends gathered to celebrate the Christmas Story as portrayed by the Pre-K class. Adorable!

Reindeer Games and Gingerbread Houses

The Upper School Boys enjoyed playing Reindeer Games, hosted by Coach Brothers; while the Girls decorated Gingerbread Houses within their small groups!

Fine Arts Christmas Concert

Last evening, the Fine Arts department  presented "At the Movies" a Christmas Concert featuring the Concert Band, MS Choir, String Ensemble and Chamber Choir. 

Great Job by the Performers, Mr. Mauldin and Ms. Stefaniak!

Upper School Christmas Art

Ms. Torrez shared the Upper School Art Students Talents and Wintry scenes so everyone could enjoy!

This weeks Upper School Teacher of the Week is ... Ms. Katie Sholl. 

Her peers shared: She is a very helpful coworker. She spends her planning time and lunch helping her AP students prepare for their tests. She maintains high expectations in her classroom and pushes her students to think on their own. It is clear she means a lot to her students. 

Congratulations Ms. Sholl! 

12 Days of Christmas Chapel

Today we celebrated the season with an All School Chapel including songs, scriptures, candles and even a visit from Dr. Santa who led the group in a rousing rendition of "The 12 Days of Christmas". 

Elf Jr Fine Arts Production

Four performances of Elf Jr were performed between December 2nd - 4th. The actors did an OUTSTANDING job!

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is ... Courtney Richardson! 

Her peers shared: I have many sophomores who are so complimentary of Mrs. Richardson. 

She is always prepared and stays late every day to ensure she gives high-quality lessons. 

Her students talk about how kind she is and that they can tell by her actions and how she treats them that she genuinely cares about them. 

Congrats Mrs. Richardson!

Praise and Thanksgiving

NCS Students and Families gathered together today for a Praise and Thanksgiving assembly followed by lunch. It was truly a joyful and blessed occasion.

Golf Practice Facility Check Presentation Ceremony

 PGA Touring Pro Brandt Snedeker (The Snedeker Foundation) and TN Golf Foundation contributed $55,000 to NCS to construct a golf practice facility on the campus that will be used in a collaborative effort with NCS and the Tennessee School for the Blind. It was an amazing day with almost 50 people gathering for the Dedication and Check Presentation Ceremony. 

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is…Coach Andrew Shaw.

His peers shared: I appreciate Coach Shaw's attention to detail for the defense each week on Friday nights. The defense consistently performs extremely well under his leadership. I appreciate his hard work and dedication to both the strength program and the football team.

Veterans Day at NCS

Veterans Day events at NCS included: the NCS Chamber Choir sang the National Anthem and a selection of songs at the Veterans Breakfast held at the Bellevue Y; the Toddler Room in the Preschool made over 60 cards and Mrs. Kalina (Active Military) is delivering them to her post; and second and third graders welcomed Marine Corps veterans Jack Spence and Tom Seals to speak to the classes. 

Thank you to all veterans for your service and sacrifice.

A.F. Bridges Contributor of the Year

Congratulations to the AF Bridges Contributor of the Year award recipient: Nashville Ready Mix.  

A big thanks from Nashville Christian School to Steve "Frog" Meadows and the entire Nashville Ready Mix family.

The Upper School Teacher of the Week is… Dr. Jeff Vore.

His peers shared: 

Dr. Vore continues to spread joy wherever he is! He is respectful and kind to all of our students, and they love him! He is a man who easily and naturally shares his faith every day.

Dr. Vore consistently has a great rapport with his students. He attends events, supports students, and prays with them daily. He is a model of a Christian man for our students to follow.

Thank you, Dr. Vore, for all you do! 

November 22nd Preview Day

Thanks to the many families who shared part of their Sunday afternoon with Administrators, Teachers, Staff and Coaches learning about ALL THINGS NCS. 

Mrs. Sharon Bartlett - Upper School Teacher of the Week

This weeks Upper School Teacher of the Week is...Mrs. Sharon Bartlett. 

One of her peers shared - Mrs. Bartlett is always available to students before and after school to make sure they stay on track and understand the content. We are lucky to have her! 

Congrats Mrs. Bartlett!

NCS Career Day

Over 35 different careers, across a wide variety of industries, were represented yesterday during NCS Career Day. 

Thanks to everyone who took time to invest in our students!

SALT Members meet with Burke Nihill

NCS SALT (Student Ambassador Leadership Team) Members met with Burke Nihill, CEO of the Tennessee Titans, to discuss leadership characteristics and what it means to be a leader.

The Upper School Teacher of the week is...Coach Dustin Patton. 

His peers shared - Coach Patton is always willing to offer a helping hand and encouragement to both students and co-workers alike. And another stated - Jesus gave us an example of servant leadership, and I love how Dustin follows his example as a coach, teacher, and co-worker. Congrats Coach Patton!

Wrestling Practice Facility Ribbon Cutting

This morning, the dream of a NCS Wrestling Practice Facility was realized with an Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Many family members, friends, teachers, and staff gathered with the Wrestling team and coaches to officially thank those who supported this effort. We look forward to following the progress of this team in the coming months. 

Upper School Fall Retreat

The Upper School Fall Retreat 2022 is in the books! 

The theme was Pray More, Worry Less. 

They spent the weekend exploring the Lords Prayer.

Landscaping Club

Members of the Upper School Landscaping Club spent time this morning sprucing up several areas of the school. NICE WORK!

National Merit Scholar Semifinalist - Brett Posavac

Brett Posavac has been named one of only 16,000 Nationwide Semifinalists in the 2023 National Merit Scholarship Program.

This program honors individual students who show exceptional academic ability and potential for success in rigorous college studies.

Brett will have an opportunity to continue in the competition for one of 7,250 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $28 Million which will be offered next spring.

Congratulations Brett!

Jeff Palk reenacts Matthew 5-7

All Region Soccer Team

Emily Campos and Ava Pomeroy were selected to the All Region Girls Soccer Team. Well-deserved!

Each week, a Teacher in the Upper School receives “Teacher of the Week”. This award is given based on nominations made by their peers. Mr. Bishop announces the winner at the weekly Upper School Faculty Meeting and awards the recipient with a “Gold” Necklace with $ Emblem to honor the occasion.

Hendrick Shelton , shown here wearing his award, is the most recent recipient. 

Comments included in the Nomination - Mr. Shelton consistently exemplifies to our students that hard work and dedication will deliver great results. A student added, Mr. Shelton is a very talented teacher and he makes learning fun!

Congrats to the newest Teacher of the Week  - Hendrick Shelton

And a Big SHOUT OUT to the prior Teachers of the Week :

September 29th - Donna Torrez - Comments with Nomination - Homecoming week has been very successful. It is a great reminder of how hard Donna works with the students for this week and how much time she puts into making this week special for everyone. 

September 22nd - Andrew Atkins - Comments with Nomination - Mr. Atkins runs programs that are essential and add value to our school. He works with the E-Sports, Broadcasting, and Yearbook programs while maintaining a full class load.

September 15th - Abbie Moroney - Comments with Nomination - I appreciate Abbie's initiative to create the sustainability class and to making our campus “greener”. The recycling collection is appreciated. I can't wait to see all her students do this year.

September 8th - Catherine Lowe - Comments with Nomination - Catherine is an incredibly creative and talented teacher. She is conscientious to plan lessons that contain rigor and are differentiated. She is a humble, godly example of a truly gifted educator. 

September 1st - Colin Wright - Comments with Nomination - Colin's work with the senior activities and his enthusiasm for building relationships are great examples of our school community. I see him every morning and between every class period outside his door greeting students and having genuine conversations. 

August 25th - Jeff Palk - Comments with Nomination - Jeff has worked so hard to develop small groups and chapel into important focal points of student life. He clearly cares about the students and the Christian culture of the school!

At 8:00AM on October 5th, Grades K-12 gathered together for Chapel. It is SO Special to be together in one place.

Excellence Award Recipients

Congratulations to the 4 Excellence Award Recipients for the 1st 9 Weeks! 

The Presentation of Certificates was made during the October 5th Excellence Chapel. 

Callie Grimenstein - Lower School, Several Teachers shared - Callie is a bright ray of sunshine into whatever room she enters. She notices her classmates in a way that is far beyond her years.  Although she was a new student to NCS last year, she jumped right in with her friendly and bubbly personality. She always works hard and does it with a smile on her face.

Baker Drumm - Middle School, One Teacher shared ... Baker is a very kind and hard-working student. He comes to class every day ready to learn and always does an outstanding job of contributing to class lectures. Several teachers commented that his house election speech is one to always be remembered.

Megan Parker - Upper School, One Teacher shared ... Megan is not only a fantastic student who works hard to do top-tier work, she goes out of her way to make other students feel welcome. Megan is a shining example of the kind of culture we want to have at NCS.

Abbie Moroney  - Teacher, Comments from others include... Abbie has taken on many new responsibilities this year including planning a community garden for our school and creating the school's first sustainability class. Her goals for our campus are inspiring, and I look forward to what the future holds because of her willingness to serve. We are blessed to have Coach "Mo" in our high school.

Jr. Eagle Football Night

A number of Lower School Students enjoyed special events during the September 30th Home Football game including Cheerleading and Flag Football. 

Dedication Ceremony

Tonight, Sept. 29th, the US Girls soccer team held a Dedication Ceremony for Leon Wright (Morgan) and Cindy Hemby (Amelia). A tree was planted and the team placed a memory plaque to honor the lives of these two. The dedication service was held between tonight's JV and Varsity Games. 

Newest NCS Hall of Fame Inductees

The newest Inductees into the NCS Hall of Fame were announced during the Homecoming Celebration on September 23, 2022.  They represent the Fall Sports from the 2000-2009 Graduating classes . Congratulations!

William Berg, class of 2008 – Football Zach Bledsoe, class of 2008 – Football Jeff Bolander, class of 2001 – Football Haley Light Breedlove, class of 2006 – Cheerleading Jennifer Yuchnitz Garner, class of 2004 – Volleyball Michael Gray, class of 2009 – Football Ryan Harris, class of 2001 – Football & Basketball Holley Koob Willover, class of 2005 – Cross Country & Track Luke Jerkins, class of 2005 – Football Justin Lessard, class of 2002 – Football Matthew Loveless, class of 2002 – Football Meredith McGinnis, class of 2001 – Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, Track & Field James Meadows, class of 2002 – Football Matthew Pace, class of 2003 – Football, Basketball & Baseball Matthew Pruitt, class of 2001 – Football Anna Claire Raines, class of 2005 - Cross Country Ashley Ingram Skinner, class of 2004 – Volleyball Jake Tiesler, class of 2002 – Football Jason Vanatta, class of 2005 – Football Eric Vick, class of 2006 - Cross Country

US and Kindergarten PE classes

Coach Mariah King's Upper School PE Class helps Coach Richardson's Kindergarten PE class work on their Soccer skills today.

It doesn't get much better than this!

Homecoming Week Day 4

Theme: Fake an Injury, not a pretty sight!

Homecoming Week: Dress Up Day 3

Theme: Costumes

In this case, a Picture truly is worth a thousand words.

PreK and LS Chapel

PreK Students and Parents joined the Lower School today for Chapel in the Main Gym.

The Students were adorable as they enjoyed interactive Songs with Dr. Fincher and a brief Bible Lesson from Mr. Palk.

Homecoming Week: Dress Up Day 2

Dress Theme for Today - Holidays

Freshmen: Show Green for St. Patrick's Day 

Sophomores: Pink, Red and Hearts for Valentine's Day 

Juniors: Stars and Stripes for 4th of July 

Seniors: Santa and his Elves shout Christmas

Homecoming Week: Dress Up Day 1

Did we really look this in the early 2000's???  Sweatbands & Gold Chains seem to be the “uniform” of the day.

College Fair

Pep Rally September 9th

Upper School students enjoyed their first Pep Rally of the year in recognition of the Fall Sports. 

The Rock Band kicked off the festivities, followed by a Tic-Tok challenge, Cheer Squad, introduction of the Teams, a prayer led by Coach Brothers, and ended with the student body participating in the Breakdown Chant. 

IT was LOUD! A truly unforgettable experience.

Outdoor Classroom Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

A Ribbon Cutting Celebration was held in the early morning on September 9th to acknowledge the many people who made the new Outdoor Classroom a reality. 

The celebration included moments of reflection, giving thanks, visiting with friends, plus lots of coffee and donuts! 

A beautiful morning in a Sweet, Sweet Place.

NCS Football Homecoming

Football Homecoming Game is Friday, September 23rd.

NCS Eagles face off against Davidson Academy.

Homecoming Dance Tickets on Sale Now

Homecoming Dance September 23rd, after the game.

Click here to order your tickets.

Peter and the Star Catcher - NCS Theatre Production

NCS Theatre will present Peter and the Star Catcher October 1 - 3.

Homecoming T-Shirts - On Sale Now

Prices range from $15.50 - $22.50 and there are several Short Sleeve and Long Sleeve options.

The Deadline to order is Friday, Sept. 9th at 3:00 PM. 

Click here to place your order!

Outdoor Classroom Ribbon Cutting - Sept. 9th at 7:15 AM

The Revlon Girl - Upcoming Theatre Performance

The Revlon Girl NCS Theater Performance Saturday, September 3rd @ 4:00 PM 

Reservations are not required and there is no cost to attend the performance.

Donations to the Skylar Rose Foundation are encouraged and will be accepted at the door. All funds raised will go directly to the foundation to provide resources to families affected by infant loss.

Physics Students' STEM Field Trip

On this field trip, our students experienced hands-on activities in biology, chemistry, mathematics, computer science, physics, engineering, and psychology. In one session, they learned basic computer coding, and in another, built models to demonstrate how civil engineers add strength to buildings with trusses. The students then spent some time in the lab learning about the chemistry of fireworks, flame-testing various chemicals to record their unique colors! They also used spectroscopes to identify the absorption spectrum of elements.

Careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics play a key role in the sustained growth and stability of the U.S. economy. Through STEM, Nashville Christian Students are becoming critical thinkers, increasing science literacy, and becoming the next generation of innovators!

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Jeff Arcuri: The Full Beans Fall Tour

hero image ID: 528671 string(3) "Yes" string(1) " " string(25) "November 2, 2024, at 7 PM" DATE: November 2, 2024, at 7 PM

LOCATION: James K. Polk Theater

STARTING AT: $39

Seating Chart

This presentation is a licensed event and not affiliated directly with the nonprofit Tennessee Performing Arts Center.

Ticket Limit:  6 Ticket Limit per household

Public On Sale: Friday April 26, 2024, at 10 AM

The Chicago Tribune calls Jeff Arcuri “a joke machine,” but he’s not! He’s a person! Jeff has appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Comedy Central’s Roast Battle, Laughs! on Fox, SiriusXM, and a plethora of comedy festivals around the country. Based in New York, Jeff can be seen nightly at The Comedy Cellar.

For more details about TPAC's patron entry protocols, visit TPAC.ORG/ ShowUpdates .

• Please note all tickets for TPAC events are fully digital and accessible via your mobile device through our TPAC Concierge Mobile App . A mobile ticket is the safest, most convenient, and flexible way to receive and manage your tickets while increasing protection against fraud.
• TPAC is not responsible for tickets purchased through the secondary market.  If your order confirmation was not sent by [email protected], you did not purchase your tickets from TPAC.  Visit TPAC.ORG/ BuyerBeware for more information.
• For information on in-person sales and service visit TPAC’s Ticketing Info page.

Accessibility - James K. Polk Theater

• TPAC is an accessible facility with a variety of services. Visit our Accessible Services page for more information.
• Wheelchair accessible seating is located at the back of the orchestra level.  
• There is no elevator access to Grand Tier level.
• All non-accessible seating requires taking stairs.

It means you’ll be unable to see the entire stage from those seats.

We sell these seats because for many fans the limited view is not a problem, and the tickets are clearly labeled at time of purchase (see photo below). Limited view seating varies event to event and could be something as small as a tiny corner of the stage being blocked from view. Call our box office at 615-782-4040 for additional information on limited view seating.

Seats marked with “Limited View” during purchase path

Andrew Johnson Theater

Many shows impose ticket limits to allow as many people as possible to have equal access to seats. This is done as a deterrent to third party vendors, i.e. scalpers, who may purchase large blocks of seats and then resell them online at an inflated cost. The term “household” refers to any shared information on one or more accounts. This includes, but may not be limited to matching names, mailing and billing addresses, email addresses, phone numbers and credit card numbers. Any households that purchase more than the allowed number of tickets may have their order(s) refunded without notice.

Andrew Jackson Hall

Click for seat views and a detailed seating chart

James K. Polk Theater

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Westfield Students Take STEM Skills To Space

Edison seventh graders ran space simulations on recent field trip..

Russ Crespolini , Patch Staff

WESTFIELD, NJ - Simulating a free fall through space, programming a robot to dance, and learning the computer programming language of JAVA were among the highlights of a recent STEM field trip to Alabama and Tennessee taken by a group of students and staff from Edison Intermediate School.

The October field trip of 63 students and nine staff included a visit to the Adventure Science Center in Nashville, Tennessee and three days at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama.

“The true pinnacle of the trip was the simulated mission on spacecraft that actual U.S. astronauts trained on years ago,” said Edison mathematics teacher Ryan Belline who, with fellow mathematics teacher Megan Thomas, organized and accompanied the students. “Our students and staff were put into groups of 15 and everyone spent time learning their role, including shuttle positions such as captain, mechanic, and onboard scientist.”

Find out what's happening in Westfield with free, real-time updates from Patch.

Belline and Thomas, who also were accompanied by teachers Daniel Black, Zachary Crutcher, Nicole Curtis, Brittany Hillier, Jillian Martinez, Elizabeth Melillo, and nurse Cheryl Cohen, say some students and staff had roles as communication specialists and other ground crew in the command center.

“After spending parts of two days learning their role, our students and staff completed a simulated mission lasting well over an hour which included successes and unforeseen errors which they needed to problem-solve as a group,” Belline said.

The interactive, educational Space Camp program at the Huntsville facility had students simulating free falls in space, experiencing what it would be like to work on the International Space Station in a weightless environment, and attending lectures and interactive displays to learn about the history and potential future of space programs.

One of the student groups heard firsthand from former NASA engineer Ron Paulus who worked for more than 20 years during the Apollo missions. Paulus stopped to talk to the group about the physics behind his work and the amount of trial and error that went into developing the science behind these first human space missions.

“He also answered many questions and quizzed Edison students on their knowledge of physics,” saids Belline.

“Imagine the STEM learning that takes place in simulating a space mission or programming in JAVA for the first time, or speaking to a former NASA engineer,” Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction and Programs Paul Pineiro said. “These kinds of learning experiences are ones that will last a lifetime.”

Belline said students on the trip, which was financed by their parents, also participated in valuable bonding experiences that reinforced team building, collaboration, and life skills.

“Students not only built a higher level of understanding in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math, but they spent 5 days together with friends, classmates, and Edison staff, building meaningful relationships that will continue to influence them well beyond this trip,” he said.

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