With just over 500 students, Harding Academy strives to “inspire the mind and nurture the spirit” of its diverse student body. The academy provides rigorous academics with a nurturing faculty to students from PreK through 8th grade. They are committed to the PreK—8 educational model as they embrace having a place for younger students, ages 4 through 14, to thrive, grow and lead free from the distractions and influences that come with a high school environment. 

The coeducational, non-sectarian school is located in Belle Meade on a campus that fosters a whole-child approach which includes a “developmentally appropriate curriculum, character education, and extracurricular activities.” For instance, the award-winning theatre program has earned national status, and the science curriculum features robotics as well as organic gardening. In addition, Harding Academy students shine on the field on any of the 21 sports teams that allow for “leadership, participation, and skill development opportunities” with a no-cut policy. Harding Academy strives to build a community of families who seek out pathways to public and private high schools alike, and who “share our mission to foster thoughtful, lifelong learners and responsible, caring citizens.”