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Managing Editor

Sky Arnold

Sky Arnold is the Managing Editor of The Tennessee Firefly, a civic-minded news outlet launched in 2022. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma, he brings nearly 20 years of broadcast journalism experience, having reported for television and radio stations in Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, and Tennessee, including government coverage for Fox 17 in Nashville and WBBJ in Jackson.

At The Tennessee Firefly, Sky directs editorial strategy, mentors reporters, and oversees coverage of education policy, state government, and public accountability. He is a recognized authority on charter school processes and state budget transparency.

sky@tnfirefly.com LinkedIn @SkyBArnold

Articles by Sky Arnold

Elections

Jerri Green Wants to Strengthen Special Education, End “Welfare for the Wealthy”

The Memphis Councilwoman is the only Democrat running for governor who’s held an elected office.

Sky Arnold·May 1, 2026·2 min read

State EducationState Government

Something is Missing from the Memphis School Intervention Debate

Opponents brought up union concerns this week, but didn’t mention students.

Sky Arnold·April 30, 2026·2 min read

Local Education

Nashville Board Members Show Bias, Admit “Nitpicking” in Charter School Denials

The MNPS Board of Education denied every proposed charter school for the fifth straight year

Sky Arnold·April 29, 2026·2 min read

Local Education

Charter Approval May Take Music City Miracle

School board members appear set to deny every proposed public charter school for a fifth straight year.

Sky Arnold·April 28, 2026·2 min read

State EducationState Government

Legislative Session Wraps with Late Drama, Key Reforms, Historic Investments

One unresolved question was whether lawmakers might further expand the number of families who can use tax dollars for private school expenses.

Sky Arnold·April 24, 2026·2 min read

State EducationState Government

House Members Debate Whether Charter Schools are “Real” Public Schools

Rep. Slater pushed back on Rep. Clemmons’ criticism of public charter schools.

Sky Arnold·April 23, 2026·2 min read

State EducationState Government

Lawmakers Consider Late Change to Expand Education Savings Account Program

An amendment under consideration would expand the scope of who can qualify to use tax dollars for private school expenses.

Sky Arnold·April 21, 2026·2 min read

State EducationState Government

Innovation Committee Chooses Not to Recommend Reductions in State Testing

Members instead provided multiple proposals to improve teacher evaluations and CTE.

Sky Arnold·April 20, 2026·2 min read

Elections

Educator Jenny Bell Promises Accountability on the MNPS School Board

Bell is challenging Dr. Berthena Nabaa-McKinney to represent families in District 4’s Donelson and Hermitage communities.

Sky Arnold·April 17, 2026·2 min read

State EducationState Government

Lawmakers Approve Historic Funding for Public Charter Schools

The plan passed despite Rep. Clemmons’ attempt to strip the funding that supports high-performing schools serving his district.

Sky Arnold·April 16, 2026·2 min read

Local Education

Dyer County Board of Education Rejects First Charter School

Trimble Academy supporters are expected to submit an amended application for a second review later this summer.

Sky Arnold·April 16, 2026·2 min read

Local Education

Trimble Academy Could Be Tennessee’s First Rural Public Charter School

Supporters say a surprise decision last year spurred interest in establishing the school in the small town.

Sky Arnold·April 14, 2026·2 min read