Bright School, the oldest independent elementary, coeducational school in Tennessee, is committed to the intellectual, artistic, physical, and moral growth of young boys and girls.
We seek academically talented students of diverse cultural, racial, religious and economic backgrounds who are willing and capable of engaging in the challenging academic opportunities the school has to offer.
We offer these students a rich and rigorous interdisciplinary, child-centered curriculum designed to stimulate creative inquiry, intellectual achievement and independent thinking in a world increasingly without borders.
With the guidance of the profession's best teachers, Bright School's students develop a life-long love of learning, high personal expectations and integrity, and a strong sense of responsibility for themselves, their community, and the natural world.
Throughout their journey, they build a firm foundation upon which they will become wise and compassionate citizens of the world.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked TN School
- Grades: Nursery/Preschool-5
- Enrollment: 350 students
- Yearly Tuition: $18,700
- Average class size: 16 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 15 / Feb. 1 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
The Bright School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Tennessee for:
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Nursery/Preschool-5
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Year Founded
1913
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
350 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
13%
State avg.: 20%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
48 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
45%
Average Class Size
16 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Uniforms
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Jan. 15 / Feb. 1 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$18,700
Tuition Notes
JPK (3 days): $8,260/year
JPK (5 days): $10,500/year
PK: $13,000/year
Grades K-5 : $18,700/year
Tuition payments may be made in full or through the FACTS payment plan. Lunch for grades PK-5 is included in tuition. Supply fees, which include all school supplies, and field trips are separate costs.
Admissions Director
Brooke Moore
Sports
Total Sports Offered
6 sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
6 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Cooking Classes, Robotics Club
Arts and Music Programs:
Ballet Class, Choir, Hand Bells
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Archery Club
Cooking Classes, Robotics Club
Arts and Music Programs:
Ballet Class, Choir, Hand Bells
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Archery Club
School Notes
- Bright School, the oldest independent elementary, coeducational school in Tennessee, is committed to the intellectual, artistic, physical, and moral growth of young boys and girls.
- We seek academically talented students of diverse cultural, racial, religious and economic backgrounds who are willing and capable of engaging in the challenging academic opportunities the school has to offer.
- We offer these students a rich and rigorous interdisciplinary, child-centered curriculum designed to stimulate creative inquiry, intellectual achievement and independent thinking in a world increasingly without borders.
- With the guidance of the professions best teachers, Bright Schools students develop a life-long love of learning, high personal expectations and integrity, and a strong sense of responsibility for themselves, their community, and the natural world.
- Throughout their journey, they build a firm foundation upon which they will become wise and compassionate citizens of the world.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does The Bright School cost?
The Bright School's tuition is approximately $18,700 for private students and $225 for summer students.
What sports does The Bright School offer?
The Bright School offers 6 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Flag Football, Soccer, Softball and Track and Field.
What is The Bright School's ranking?
The Bright School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Tennessee for: Largest student body and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for The Bright School?
The application deadline for The Bright School is Jan. 15 / Feb. 1 / rolling (applications are due on Jan. 15 / Feb. 1 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
In what neighborhood is The Bright School located?
The Bright School is located in the North Chattanooga neighborhood of Chattanooga, TN. There are 1 other private schools located in North Chattanooga.
School Reviews
5 3/1/2024
I love this School so much.
5 5/13/2017
Wonderful school!
Endorse The Bright School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
Early Childhood Education Approaches: A Guide for Parents of 1 and 2 Year Olds
In this article we explore three popular approaches to early childhood education: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf. It provides parents of toddlers with essential information about each method, helping them make informed decisions about their child's early education.
Making the Right Choice: A Parent's Guide to Private School Selection
We explore the reasons to consider private school education, compares boarding and day school options, and outlines essential factors in choosing the right school. It provides parents with valuable insights to make informed decisions about their child's education, drawing from real-world scenarios and expert advice.
Navigating Private School Finances: A Parent's Guide
This comprehensive guide explores the intricacies of private school tuition and financing options. Divided into three chapters, it covers understanding private school tuition, various payment methods, and seven specific options for managing educational expenses. The article aims to provide parents and guardians with valuable insights and practical strategies to make private education more accessible and affordable.