When you walk into Hunters Lane High School, you know you’re walking the halls of a spirited and dedicated community. While only 36 years old, Hunters Lane has a storied history with long-standing traditions and a supportive alumni network, driven in part by having had only four executive principals. 
This tight-knit school that is committed to building community and developing student success is something Retired Major Jason Stockton knows well. Stockton has deep ties with Hunters Lane, not just as the school’s JROTC senior Army instructor for the past four years but also as a 1991 graduate.
“It’s been so many years [since I’ve graduated], but even now, you still see yourself in the kids,” says Stockton, who also coaches boys’ basketball and helps with the girls’ softball team. “So, for me, it just means more. This school is a part of me and a part of the community I grew up in.”
The culture at Hunters Lane is centered on college and career readiness from day one of Freshman Academy. Teachers, advisors and administrators ensure Every Student is Known by prioritizing open communication with academy principals and weekly “Warrior Time” for students with their advisors, along with other efforts.
Every month, Hunters Lane celebrates “college day,” when teachers wear their favorite school gear in efforts to encourage students to attend college. Throughout the school year, more than 40 community partners provide real-life experiences for students.
Students Aiming High at Hunters Lane
Consider these impressive data points from the 2020-21 graduates:
- 77% were accepted to the college/university of their choice
- 72% were awarded a scholarship – totaling more than $6 million awarded to students
- 87% of full IB diploma students earn college credit in one or more college courses.
“Hunters Lane is a spectacularly special place where adults genuinely like teenagers,” says Dr. Susan Kessler, the executive principal. “We take care of our students first, and we teach them second. The relationships students have with teachers, coaches, sponsors, administrators and advisors make a huge difference in their success in high school and beyond.” 
“Wherever students go,” Stockton says, “we want them to know they have options to move their lives forward, and those options start right here at Hunters Lane.”
Explore Hunters Lane
Hunters Lane is one of MNPS’ zoned traditional high schools. If you are zoned for Hunters Lane and you haven’t set up a school visit, or if it’s been a while, it’s time to take a second look. Learn more by visiting the Hunters Lane website.
Fun Facts about Hunters Lane
- Hunters Lane opened in 1986 after Goodlettsville and Madison high schools closed, but both schools are honored in the school colors: blue, representing Goodlettsville’s Trojans, and orange, representing Madison’s Rams.
- Hunters Lane was the first International Baccalaureate school in Tennessee and graduated its first IB class in 2004.
- Hunters Lane has three Academies of Nashville pathways, each of which has received the highest career-ready designation of “Model Status” from the National Career Academy Coalition.
- Hunters Lane offers a full athletic program, an award-winning debate team, forensics/speech, JROTC, National Honor Society, marching band, choir, drama and 65 other extracurricular activities.
- Mission statement: “The faculty, staff and students of Hunters Lane High School will provide a nurturing environment where personal growth and responsibility are valued and academic excellence is a daily pursuit.”
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