Historic Litterer Laboratory Welcomes a New Chapter with City School of Nashville

NASHVILLE, TN- Nashville's historic Litterer Laboratory is home to a new chapter in education as City School of Nashville, formerly Templeton Academy, begins the school year with a new name and the support of a new board. The private school brings renewed energy to the historic property, connecting its longstanding educational legacy with a student experience rooted in curiosity, creativity and community.

A fund managed by an affiliate of GBX Group acquired the property in 2025. City School's presence reflects GBX's commitment to preserving historic buildings while supporting active uses that contribute to the life of their neighborhoods.

"We are thrilled that City School of Nashville is carrying forward the educational legacy of this historic property," said Drew Sparacia, CEO and Founder of GBX Group. "As Nashville continues to grow, places like Litterer Laboratory help preserve the city's connection to its past while serving a new generation. With students and educators bringing fresh energy to the building every day, we look forward to caring for the property through thoughtful improvements over time that honor its historic character and support its continued role in the community."

City School of Nashville combines personalized guidance, project-based learning and fieldwork to connect classroom lessons with experiences throughout the city. Students engage with real people and real challenges, developing critical thinking, collaboration and problem-solving skills while exploring how they can contribute to their communities.

With a new board supporting the school beginning this academic year, City School's next chapter builds on that approach and its commitment to helping students feel seen, supported and challenged.

"Our new name reflects our commitment to making real-life learning by exploring our vibrant hometown of Nashville," said Erica Steakley, Ph.D., Head of School at City School of Nashville. "This historic building is a main character in the story of our school. Its rich educational history makes our connection to it especially meaningful, and the aesthetic beauty and variety of its individual rooms enhance the learning experience. With the support of our new board, we are excited to continue growing our community, where students can wrestle with big questions, grow through project-based learning, and see themselves as active contributors to Nashville's future."

Originally built in 1895 for the University of Nashville's Medical Department, Litterer Laboratory later served Vanderbilt University and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. Its continued use as a place of learning connects generations of students while keeping an important piece of Nashville's history active and relevant.

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About GBX Group

GBX Group focuses on the acquisition, preservation and operation of historic properties in urban communities. Working alongside investors, GBX invests in and manages projects that preserve historic buildings, support neighborhood revitalization and give these properties a lasting role in local economies. As of January 2026, the company's work encompassed 216 real estate projects across 24 states. Learn more at gbxgroup.com. 

About City School of Nashville

City School of Nashville, formerly Templeton Academy, is a private school in Nashville, Tennessee. Through Core Advisory, Project-Based Learning and Fieldwork, the school helps students connect their interests and academic learning with the world around them. Learn more at cityschoolnashville.org.