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- calendar_today October 19, 2026
State Representative Raises Possibility of MNPS Takeover
A Tennessee lawmaker has spoken publicly about the potential for a state intervention in Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS), citing ongoing concerns about student performance and the need for accountability within the district.
Radio Interview Sheds Light on Lawmaker's Concerns
State Rep. Scott Cepicky (R-Culleoka) made the comments during an appearance on SuperTalk 99.7 WTN. Addressing the issue of school accountability, he stated, “If they didn’t [know they were underperforming], they do now.” Cepicky outlined that he recently participated in a private meeting with MNPS Superintendent Dr. Adrienne Battle and her vice chairman to discuss areas where the district is falling short, including specific schools he identified as underperforming.
School Performance and the Focus on Accountability
During the meeting, Cepicky emphasized the importance of improving the district’s lowest-performing schools, naming McGavock, Antioch, and Pearl Cohn as examples. He recounted, “The way I focus my job is I have to look at my worst performers and get them to improve better...you have to focus on your worst performers.”
Potential for State and Financial Oversight
The conversation also touched on the potential for a formal state takeover of the school system, with Cepicky noting that much of his discussion with district leadership centered on this issue. “We’ve already gone after Memphis, and now it’s Nashville’s next,” he told the radio host, referring to recent state action involving the Memphis-Shelby County School Board, where a state-appointed board is currently under judicial review.
In addition, Cepicky revealed his intention to involve the state comptroller, seeking a forensic audit of MNPS. “I am asking the Speaker to do a forensic audit on Nashville to start the process of looking at taking them over. We’re going to get the comptroller involved, financially,” he said, alluding to a past settlement without providing further detail.
Lawmaker Cites Broader Concerns on Education Outcomes
Cepicky stressed the need for substantial changes to ensure school improvement and better student outcomes across Tennessee. He argued that without improvement, students may face obstacles pursuing higher education, vocational training, military service, or entrepreneurship. “We’ve got to get Nashville performing, because all we’re doing is cheating these kids. We’re giving them a piece of paper that says, ‘You’re supposed to know,’ and they don’t,” he stated, connecting student underperformance to wider societal issues.
Response from Metro Nashville Public Schools
When contacted for comment, Metro Nashville Public Schools responded that the district has no details or information regarding the meeting between Rep. Cepicky and Superintendent Battle.
Source: wkrn.com.
