During the MNPS Board meeting, Etka Ergül, representing Peace Bridges Center, spoke in strong support of the Nashville School of Excellence charter application.
In his remarks, Mr. Ergül shared that Peace Bridges Center serves many immigrant and multicultural families across Middle Tennessee who are deeply invested in their children's education and are seeking additional high-quality public school options. He noted that families from diverse backgrounds—including Turkish, Kurdish, Azerbaijani, Uzbek, and many others—consistently emphasize the importance of strong academics, a safe learning environment, and meaningful family engagement.
Mr. Ergül also highlighted the positive impact that schools within the Memphis School of Excellence network have had on many families, saying those experiences have given the community confidence that the Nashville School of Excellence would provide another outstanding educational option for students and families in Nashville.
He concluded by emphasizing that as Nashville continues to grow and become more diverse, expanding access to high-quality public schools strengthens the entire educational system and gives parents the opportunity to choose the learning environment that best meets their children's needs. On behalf of the families served by Peace Bridges Center, he respectfully encouraged the MNPS Board to give the application favorable consideration.
We are sincerely grateful to Etka Ergül and Peace Bridges Center for their thoughtful support and for standing alongside our mission to provide a high-quality, STEM-focused, college-preparatory education for Nashville students and families.