St. Bernard Academy

🌟 Key Highlights: St. Bernard Academy

St. Bernard Academy (SBA) is a private, independent Catholic day school in Nashville, Tennessee, centrally located near Vanderbilt University. Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1866, it provides a rigorous academic education built on the core values of the Mercy tradition, focusing on inclusivity and social justice.

🏫 Overview

• Type: Private / Independent Catholic School (Mercy Education System of the Americas)

• Location: Nashville, Tennessee (near Vanderbilt/Belmont Universities)

• Grades Served: Pre-Kindergarten (PreK3) – 8th Grade

• Enrollment: Approximately 365–385 students

• Core Mission: To provide an excellent Catholic academic education built on a foundation of self-discipline, compassion, and a sense of responsibility for social justice in the tradition of the Sisters of Mercy.

• Accreditation: SAIS (Southern Association of Independent Schools) and NCEA (National Catholic Educational Association).

• Awards: Recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence.

✅ What Makes the School Unique?

SBA is distinguished by its seamless K-8 model rooted in the historical and inclusive Mercy tradition:

• Mercy Tradition & Core Values: The school’s identity is defined by the charism of the Sisters of Mercy. Education emphasizes eight core characteristics: Mercy, Respect, Integrity, Responsibility, Honesty, Citizenship, Empathy, and Service.

• Independent Catholic Status: SBA is unique in Nashville as an independent Catholic school (not affiliated with a parish), allowing it to focus resources entirely on its educational mission while remaining accountable to the Mercy Education System of the Americas.

• Seamless K-8 Experience: By focusing exclusively on PreK3 through 8th grade, the school creates a nurturing, consistent environment tailored to the formative years, preparing students for success in Nashville’s top high schools without the disruption of changing schools mid-elementary.

• Academic Excellence: Committed to a rigorous curriculum in an intimate learning environment with a low average class size of 12 (and a student-teacher ratio of 8:1 to 10:1). Over 60% of the faculty hold advanced degrees.

• Inclusivity and Belonging: SBA affirms the inherent dignity of all people and is committed to cultivating inclusivity and diversity, welcoming children from diverse religious, economic, and ethnic backgrounds.

🎯 Who Would Enjoy This School?

This school is an excellent fit for:

• Families seeking a Pre-K through 8th-grade Catholic education that is academically excellent and committed to social justice and inclusivity.

• Students who thrive in a smaller, close-knit environment with a strong sense of community and personalized attention.

• Parents who value a school with a rich historical tradition that actively cultivates character traits like empathy, service, and integrity alongside academics.

• Students being prepared for entry into Nashville’s most selective college-preparatory high schools.

🛑 Who Should Consider Other Options?

This school might not be the best fit for:

• Families seeking a high school (9-12) educational program, as SBA serves grades PK–8.

• Students who prefer a purely secular or non-religious environment, as Catholic faith and values (including daily prayer and monthly liturgies) are integral to the school day.

• Families who prefer a school model not focused on the specific Mercy core characteristics or historical traditions.

📞 Contact Information