Nashville Superintendent Highlights District Progress, Upcoming Hall of Fame Event

Superintendent Doug Graham of the Nashville School District addressed the Nashville Rotary Club last Wednesday, offering an update on the district’s upcoming Hall of Fame and Hall of Honor ceremony while reflecting on the system’s long history and recent progress.

Graham noted that in the district’s 107-year history, only eight individuals have served as superintendent. He is currently in his 20th year in the role, matching the tenure of former superintendents Dewight Jones and Danny Howard. He also highlighted the extraordinary service of E.T. Moody, who dedicated more than 64 years to the district as a coach, educator, and administrator, including 46 years as superintendent.

According to Graham, the Hall of Fame and Hall of Honor initiative was created to preserve and celebrate the history of Nashville schools. He introduced members of the steering committee and explained that a separate nominations committee will be responsible for selecting future inductees.

The Hall of Fame/Hall of Honor ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, June 14. Tickets are priced at $30.

Graham also discussed how the district has evolved over time. When he arrived in 1990, student demographics were approximately 60 percent Caucasian and 40 percent African American. Today, the student population is about 50 percent Caucasian, 25 percent Hispanic, and 25 percent African American. He added that while more students now qualify for free and reduced-price meals, the district currently provides meals and snacks to all students.

In closing, Graham shared positive academic news, reporting that the district earned its highest letter grade to date. Nashville School District received a B-plus rating this year, placing it among the top-performing districts in the region.