RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN (WGNS NEWS) - The historic Homer Pittard Campus School is opening its doors to the community on April 28 from 4:00 to 6:00 PM to celebrate a legacy that spans over a century. This special open house serves as a vibrant tribute to the school's unique history and its enduring partnership between Rutherford County Schools and Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)... That was Dr. Rita King, who began her career at the Campus School as a 4th-grade teacher in 1979 before being named principal in the 1980's. After leaving her role as principal in 1995 to lead another school, she eventually returned to serve the institution in a new capacity. She currently serves as the president of the "Friends of Campus School".
A major highlight of the evening will focus on this year's honoree, a long-time music teacher who brought national recognition to the school's music program... Known by generations of students as Mrs. Boone (Nancy Boone Allsbrook), she served as the school’s music teacher and choir director for over 20 years... If you have photos of past choir trips or performances, or if you'd like to write down memories about Mrs. Boone, the pictures, cards, and notes will be collected and given to her after the event. You can also email pictures to washaw1978@gmail.com.
For over 115 years, the Campus School has served the community while operating through a joint effort between the Rutherford County Schools and the university. The atmosphere throughout those years created an environment for learning that Dr. King recalled a state supervisor affectionately referring to as "organized chaos".
While the names of teachers have changed over the years, and as new student teachers have funneled in and out of the doors from semester to semester, one thing has remained a constant: the popularity of the school itself, leading to an ongoing and active waiting list for prospective students. Mrs. King highlighted that this high demand was often driven by the unique opportunities provided by the school's partnership with the university... This synergy allows university students to bring fresh ideas into the classrooms while gaining a hands-on teaching experience and serving as role models for the children.
Stepping Through History - Visitors can explore the school’s rich past through several interactive experiences:
- Decades Display: The gymnasium will feature a historical exhibit, with portions curated by Shacklett’s Photography, showcasing the school’s evolution from 1911 to the present.
- Student-Led Tours: Fifth-grade Student Ambassadors will lead guided tours through the massive, multi-story building that has stood since 1929. Mrs. King noted that the school now has an elevator near the back parking lot to ensure easy access for all visitors.
- Community Connection: The event is a joint effort hosted by the school, the PTC, and the Friends of Campus School, with refreshments served in the library.
Whether you are a former student, a prospective family, or a local history buff, this event offers a rare look inside one of Murfreesboro's most distinctive educational landmarks. Founded in 1911 as a laboratory school affiliated with MTSU, Homer Pittard Campus School has evolved into a high-performing environment that emphasizes academic excellence and whole-child development.
Event Details:
- Honoree: Nancy Boone Allsbrook
- Date: April 28, 2026, Saturday
- Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Location: 923 E Lytle St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130
- Photo Submissions: washaw1978@gmail.com
LISTEN to THE PODCAST: Hear our 10-minute interview with retired principal Rita King (pictured above and to the right in red shirt), by clicking PLAY above this article. Visit the school online by Clicking Here.
