Optional Schools Application Process For MNPS Explained

From the Metro Nashville Public Schools:

January 21, 2021

Optional Schools Application Process

Application window is from Monday, January 25 to February 12.

The Optional Schools Application opens Monday, Jan. 25. This process gives families the ability to choose a school among open enrollment schools throughout the district.

Families in Nashville have 159 public schools available to them — meaning there’s a school that’s right for your student.

Whether you want to learn more about your zoned neighborhood school or an optional school — we can’t wait to show you the possibilities available within Metro Nashville Public Schools. 

We know the process can be overwhelming, so today we’re outlining some key steps to take as you consider applying for an optional school.

Important Dates

This year’s timeline: (view full school options calendar)

• Monday, Jan. 25, 2021: Applications open online at www.mnps.org/apply. Printed applications will be available at schools, enrollment centers and the Family Information Center.

• Monday, March 8, 2021: Selection Day results will be available online at www.mnps.org/school-options.

Explore

Choosing a school for your student is an extremely important decision, and it requires some research.

Think about what you and your family are looking for from a school during this process. Maybe it’s things like:

• Do you want your student to be close to home?

• Is your student interested in a particular program?

• Is your student looking for a specific extracurricular activity or a group sport?

• Does the school offer before- and after-care?

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Before you apply, you’ll need to gather these things:

• The parent/guardian must be a Davidson County resident before submitting an Optional Schools Application for his/her child.

• An MNPS-issued student identification (ID) number is required. Current students can get their student ID number from their school or calling the Family Information Center. Students who need a student ID number can apply for a student ID number online on the Register for School page.

• The parent/guardian must have a valid email address or phone number to submit an application.

• Review the Optional Schools Application booklet.

How do I fill out the application?

• Applying online is the preferred and simplest option. You can also mail in a paper application. If you need assistance, you can schedule an appointment with our Family Information Center to submit a paper application in person. Call 615-259-INFO to set up that appointment.

• To start the application, visit: www.mnps.org/apply

• You’ll apply for up to seven schools on the application and rank your choices starting with your first choice and listing schools in priority order, including pathway schools and schools that may require interviews.

• Applications must be turned in by 4:30 p.m. Feb. 12, if returning in person, or by 11:59 p.m. CST Feb. 12, if submitting the application online.

What about the selection process?

• All applications are entered into a computerized random selection process.

• If your student is selected to attend one of the schools on your application during the random selection process, you will be offered the opportunity to accept a seat in that school following our first selection day. The seat must be accepted or declined by the first deadline of March 26. If you do not make a selection by March 26, your student’s seat will automatically be declined.

• Your child will be put on a waitlist for any schools that were listed higher on your priority list than the school where your child was selected to attend. If an opening becomes available in one of those schools during the school options process, you will be given the opportunity to accept the new position.

Questions?

This press release was produced by the Metro Nashville Public Schools. The views expressed are the author's own.