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 (2025)
- Top Ranked TN School
- Grades: Nursery/Preschool-5
- Enrollment: 352 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
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Nursery/Preschool-5
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Year Founded
1913
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
352 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
13%
State avg.: 20%
Students by Grade
![The Bright School Student By Grade The Bright School Student By Grade](http://images3.privateschoolreview.com/charts/26000/25951/the-bright-school-chart-1k3b2nb19cczi.png)
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
48 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.:
% 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
Endowment Size
$10 million
Sports
Total Sports Offered
6 sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
5 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Cooking Classes, Robotics Club
Arts and Music Programs:
Ballet Class, Choir, Hand Bells
Cooking Classes, Robotics Club
Arts and Music Programs:
Ballet Class, Choir, Hand Bells
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.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Tim Kelly '79 - Mayor of Chattanooga, TN
- Spencer McCallie '49 - Former Head of School at McCallie School
- Herb Barks '45 - Former Head of School at Baylor School
- Mai Bell Hurley '40 - Civil and political leader in Chattanooga, TN
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 $310 for summer students.
Who are famous alumni from The Bright School?
The Bright School famous alumni include: Tim Kelly '79, Spencer McCallie '49, Herb Barks '45 and Mai Bell Hurley '40.
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!
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