Introducing Lawson Lightning — Metro Schools’ newest mascot

Bellevue’s James Lawson High School is set to open next school year 📚

Rendering of a high school

Fall 2022 progress photos. | Photo via MNPS

MNPS announced the mascot, school colors, and alma mater for Bellevue’s James Lawson High Schoolalso known as Lawson High School — scheduled to open in time for the 2023-2024 school year. Say hello to the Lawson Lightning. 👋

With help from pro athletes Mark Borowiecki, Corey Levin, and Walker Zimmerman, officials also unveiled the school colors: midnight navy blue, Columbia sky blue, and sunny yellow. Watch the full announcement here. Here are some fast facts about the school:

  • The campus, which will replace Hillwood High School, spans 273 acres off of I-40 in Bellevue.
  • The district voted last year to name the school after civil rights leader and Vanderbilt alum Rev. James Lawson.
  • The $150 million project broke ground in May 2021.

Take a virtual tour of the campus to see what’s in store + peep these new progress photos.

More from NASHtoday
A state of emergency is in effect in Nashville as icy roads and widespread power outages persist.
Roll out the red carpet for these Nashville chefs and restaurants.
Here we snow again. Below is what to know about navigating closures, snow plow routes, and weather updates.
With reports indicating the Titans are finalizing a deal to hire Robert Saleh, here’s what to know about his coaching background and experience.
Nashville International Airport plans to host two community open houses as it updates its Master Plan.
This Danish trend emphasizes all things comfortable and cozy.
If you don’t have coffee already in hand, consider this your sign to grab some.
As 2026 gets underway, Launch Tennessee highlighted a few Nashville startups across technology, music, and more that are worth watching this year.
Airbnb’s travel predictions for the year + how you can take part starting in Music City.
We compiled all of the feedback from our Giving Campaign to learn what readers love most and want to see more of in our newsletters. Here’s a peek at what they said.