Cutting the Ribbon on a New Chapter at Percy Priest

On July 18, families, faculty, and friends came together to celebrate a milestone years in the making: the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Percy Priest Elementary. It wasn’t just the opening of a building; it was the start of a new era for a beloved school that has shaped generations.

Visitors wandered through the vibrant new space, exploring classrooms, common areas, and that stunning double-height library Principal Dr. Russell Young calls “the heart of the school.” Teachers were in their rooms, putting on the finishing touches and getting ready to welcome students for the upcoming year. Kids peeked into their future classrooms, families swapped stories in the halls, and excitement buzzed through every corner.

Event dignitaries included Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell, Previous Nashville Mayor, John Cooper, and Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) Superintendent Dr. Adrienne Battle.

Dr. Young shared that the school’s new slogan for the year is “New doors, same roars,” capturing the spirit of fresh beginnings while celebrating the strong traditions that make Percy Priest special. He also noted, “At Percy Priest we stand firmly behind the district mantra of ‘Every Student Known,’ and this new space is designed to help us live that commitment every day, ensuring that each child is seen, supported, and celebrated.

JJCA’s Julie Carpenter summed it up perfectly:

“It was so much fun to go to the Percy Priest ribbon cutting. I was so proud to be both an alum and part of JJCA. Linda Mark and Jenny Wygant did a great job on the project. Everyone, including faculty, staff, community members, school families, loves the new building.”

Speakers throughout the event also thanked JJCA and American Constructors multiple times for “a job well done.”

This 99,577‑square‑foot school brings together smart design and strong community roots. With 52 classrooms, colorful wayfinding, and expansive outdoor play spaces tucked between bioponds and mature trees, the school offers something special at every turn. It’s a place built not just to function, but to inspire.

We’re proud to have helped bring this vision to life, and even more excited to see what these young Tigers will do next.