Looking for private schools near Brentwood, TN that offer something other than traditional college prep? City School of Nashville is a progressive, inclusive private school in downtown Nashville, and a number of our families make the short drive from Brentwood because we're a genuinely different kind of school.
We're student-centered by design, with small classes, project-based learning, and the whole city as a classroom. If you want a school where your child is known, challenged, and free to be themselves, you're in the right place.
This page covers who we're, what the drive from Brentwood really looks like, and how to come see for yourself. When you're ready, we'd love to schedule a tour.
The Commute from Brentwood
Let's talk about the drive, because it's a fair question. City School sits in downtown Nashville, and Brentwood is one of the shorter commutes in the Williamson County area, a straightforward trip up the I-65 corridor.
For many Brentwood families, that drive is an easy trade for a school that fits their child. The distance is real, but it's manageable, and plenty of families build it into their day without much trouble.
If the commute is part of your thinking, we're glad to talk through carpools, schedules, and what daily drop-off and pickup would look like for your family. It's worth sorting out before you enroll.
What Makes City School Different
Here's a quick look at what Brentwood families tend to notice first:
- Small classes. An average of about ten students per class.
- Extended learning blocks. Longer classes that allow depth over breadth.
- Weekly fieldwork. Regular excursions that use Nashville as a classroom.
- Core Advisory. A trusted adult who knows each student well.
- Project-based learning. Real challenges with real-world relevance.
A Progressive, Inclusive Community
A progressive school treats education as preparation for life, not just for tests. Learning is active, hands-on, and built around the students in the room.
We describe our approach as rainbows on the inside, which means students are free to be exactly who they're inside a community that knows and supports them. Every family is welcomed and respected here, whatever their background.
You can read more about how we teach on our Our Approach page.
Fieldwork Across the City
Project-based learning is becoming more common, and that's a good thing. What sets City School apart is how far we take learning out into the city itself, and this is where the drive from Brentwood pays off.
We treat Nashville as an extension of the classroom. In a single year, our classes take dozens of excursions, from the State Capitol to recording studios to conversations with working professionals across the city.
That kind of access is only possible in the heart of Nashville. It's the part of our model that families outside the city tell us they can't find closer to home.
Why Brentwood Families Look Downtown
Brentwood is full of strong, traditional schools, so families who choose City School are usually looking for something those schools don't offer. We're not trying to be the next big-name prep academy. We're our own thing.
Our students go on to all kinds of futures, from selective universities to creative and vocational paths, and we're proud of that range. What matters to us is that each student finds their purpose and the confidence to chase it.
For a Brentwood family who wants a progressive, curious, and genuinely personal education rather than a name on a sweatshirt, that difference is the whole point.
Is City School the Right Fit?
Being honest about fit helps families choose with confidence. City School is a natural home for students who are proactive and self-directed, who love asking questions, and who are ready to step into a hands-on day.
Our model asks something of students, too. Because so much learning happens out in the city, students need to be comfortable with movement, new places, and the occasional change of plan, which we preview and prepare for whenever we can.
Families looking for a highly structured, low-activity, or intervention-based program will likely find a better match elsewhere, and we're always glad to talk that through. Learn more about getting started on our How to Apply page.
In Their Own Words
As City School parent Nicole B. shared:
"Project-based learning combined with frequent excursions through the city allow her to deeply understand concepts and themes."
Making City School Accessible
City School of Nashville is socio-economically diverse by design. We work to make our education reachable for families from a range of financial backgrounds.
Need-based financial aid is available and assessed through a secure third-party partner. You can learn more on our Tuition and Financial Aid page, or just contact us and we'll help you find a path that works.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the drive from Brentwood to City School?
City School is in downtown Nashville, a short trip up the I-65 corridor from Brentwood. Drive time varies with traffic and time of day, so we're happy to help you plan around your family's schedule.
What grades does City School serve?
We serve grades 5 through 12, spanning middle school (grades 5 to 8) and high school (grades 9 to 12).
How large are classes?
Classes average about ten students, which allows for personalized attention and strong relationships.
Is City School a special-education school?
No. We're a small, supportive, personalized school where students who learn and think in their own way are known and supported. We aren't a special-education or clinical program.
How can I visit?
The best way to know is to come see us. You can schedule a tour or contact us with any questions.
Worth the Drive From Brentwood
If you want a private school near Brentwood that offers something the traditional route can't, we'd love to meet your family. Schedule a tour today and see the City School difference for yourself.