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Here are the Best Schools in Tennessee Thurman Francis Magnet Tops the List

Best Tennessee Schools

U.S. News analyzed 105,093 pre-K, elementary and middle schools. Browse our district and school profiles to find the right fit for you.

Editor’s Note: As an alum of Thurman Francis School, I was thrilled to see Thurman Francis Magnet School—as well as Central Magnet and McFadden School of Excellence—top the list in the recent 2024 U.S. News & World Report rankings. Rutherford County continues to shine with top schools like McFadden School of Excellence, ranked 1st for elementary schools, and Central Magnet School, ranked 1st for middle and high schools. McFadden serves 389 students, while Central Magnet has 1,210 students and boasts a Level 5 status for exceptional growth. Thurman Francis Arts Academy ranks 4th for elementary and 2nd for middle schools, with a focus on arts and 657 students enrolled. Our district has a graduation rate of 97.2%, reflecting strong academic performance and community support, making Rutherford County a top choice for families seeking quality education.

If your child has had the opportunity to attend a magnet school—like our oldest son—count yourself very blessed. Some argue that public magnet schools often favor academically strong students through selective admissions, which can discriminate against those who struggle. By prioritizing grades and test scores, these schools may exclude capable learners with valuable skills who don’t excel in traditional assessments. This creates an environment that views only certain students as “worthy,” perpetuating inequalities and limiting diversity.

Felicia and I now have two new grand-babies. My hope is that they both will have the ‘opportunity’ to attend Thurman Francis Magnet School like their father did. Please let me know your thoughts and suggestions on how we reach those students who often struggle to perform academically and often fall behind. My email is MikeSparksTn@gmail.com.
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How U.S. News Calculated the 2025 Best Elementary and Middle Schools Rankings

State assessment data determines how most elementary and middle schools fare in these rankings.

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