The exterior of the new James Lawson High. Photo: courtesy of Metro Nashville Public Schools
James Lawson High, the city's first new high school since 2008, celebrated its first day of school Tuesday.
Why it matters: City officials from the Bellevue area pursued a new high school for a decade.
- Mayor John Cooper approved funding for the $124 million facility early in his term.
- It's the first new high school since Cane Ridge High.
Context: Following public input, the school was named in honor of Rev. James Lawson, who was a leader in the city's civil rights movement in the 1960s.
By the numbers: The 307,000-square-foot facility can accommodate up to 1,600 students.
- The high school — formerly Hillwood High — has over 150 staff members.
- The new gym seats at least 1,600 people and the new auditorium seats 500.
Also: Tuesday was the first day of class for the new Goodlettsville Elementary School, which cost $22.86 million.
Get more local stories in your inbox with Axios Nashville.
More Nashville stories
No stories could be found
Get a free daily digest of the most important news in your backyard with Axios Nashville.