High school represents the final preparation for college and career success, when students need both academic rigor and personal guidance to discover their purpose and prepare for adult responsibilities. For Nashville families seeking private high schools that combine innovative learning with proven college outcomes, Templeton Academy delivers exceptional results: 95% of our graduates are accepted to their college of choice.
Unlike traditional prep schools that focus primarily on test scores and college admissions, our high school program develops the whole person through project-based learning, real-world experience, and intensive college counseling. Students graduate not just college-ready, but life-ready, with a clear sense of purpose and the skills needed to succeed in our rapidly changing world.
For families evaluating high schools in Nashville or college prep schools that truly prepare students for 21st-century challenges, Templeton Academy offers the perfect combination of academic excellence and personal development.
High School Programming That Develops Purpose-Driven Leaders
Templeton Academy's high school program (grades 9-12) builds systematically toward college and career readiness while helping students discover their unique strengths and passions. Our approach recognizes that successful adults need more than academic credentials—they need purpose, resilience, and the ability to navigate complexity.
What sets our high school apart:
- 95% college acceptance rate: Students are accepted to their top choice colleges consistently
- Project-based learning: Authentic investigations that develop critical thinking and real-world problem-solving
- Small seminar classes: Average 10 students enables college-level discussion and individual attention
- Comprehensive college counseling: One-on-one guidance throughout the high school experience
- Real-world application: Nashville fieldwork and internships connect learning to professional contexts
Our graduates enter college with confidence, self-direction, and advanced thinking skills that serve them well in higher education and beyond.
95% College Acceptance Rate: Results That Matter
Academic outcomes speak to the effectiveness of our high school program. Templeton Academy graduates consistently gain acceptance to competitive colleges and universities nationwide, including both highly selective institutions and specialized programs aligned with students' interests and goals.
Recent college matriculation includes:
- Selective liberal arts colleges: Students accepted to institutions known for innovative, discussion-based learning
- Major research universities: Graduates thrive at large universities due to their self-direction and critical thinking skills
- Specialized programs: Students pursue interests in engineering, arts, business, and other fields through targeted programs
- Merit scholarships: Many graduates receive significant financial aid recognizing their academic preparation and leadership potential
This success reflects our comprehensive approach to college preparation that begins in 9th grade and intensifies throughout the high school years.
Project-Based Learning for High School Students
High school project-based learning at Templeton Academy tackles complex, authentic challenges that mirror college and professional work. Students develop expertise through sustained investigation while building the collaboration, communication, and critical thinking skills essential for future success.
High school project examples:
Deep Dive Investigations (Grades 9-10)
Students complete four Deep Dive courses each year, balancing humanities and science while following personal interests:
- Historical analysis projects: Researching primary sources to understand complex historical events and their contemporary relevance
- Scientific investigations: Designing and conducting original research addressing real environmental or health challenges
- Literary and cultural studies: Analyzing texts, media, and cultural phenomena to understand human experience and expression
- Mathematical modeling: Using quantitative methods to solve authentic problems in business, science, and social contexts
Advanced Courses (Grades 11-12)
Semester-long courses aligned with college and career interests:
- Environmental Science: Field research addressing local sustainability challenges with community partners
- Philosophy: Engaging with fundamental questions about ethics, knowledge, and human nature through Socratic seminars
- Statistics and Government: Analyzing policy issues using data while understanding governmental processes and civic engagement
- Economics and Data Science: Exploring market systems and using quantitative analysis for decision-making
Capstone Projects (Grade 12)
Senior-year independent research applying skills to topics reflecting students' passions and career directions:
- Original research: Students design and conduct investigations addressing questions they're genuinely curious about
- Community partnerships: Working with Nashville organizations to address real challenges through student expertise
- Professional presentations: Sharing findings with authentic audiences including community leaders and experts
- College preparation: Developing research, writing, and presentation skills directly applicable to college coursework
These experiences develop the intellectual independence and subject matter expertise that distinguish our graduates in college admissions and academic performance.
Advanced Coursework and Opportunities
Templeton Academy's high school curriculum provides academic rigor necessary for competitive college admissions while maintaining innovative, engaging approaches that keep students motivated and intellectually curious.
Academic program highlights:
- Writing Intensives and Book Groups: Advanced literacy development through complex text analysis and sophisticated writing instruction
- World Languages: Continued Spanish, French, or Mandarin study emphasizing cultural competency and communication
- Mathematics through Algebra II: Strong quantitative foundation with real-world applications and problem-solving
- Science and Humanities Deep Dives: Integrated, project-based exploration of essential concepts across disciplines
- Internships and Assistantships: Required 11th and 12th grade professional experiences for career exploration
- Independent Study Options: Advanced topics aligned with individual interests and college goals
- Arts and Wellness: Creative expression and physical wellness supporting balanced development
Extended learning blocks enable:
- Seminar-style classes: College-level discussion around conference tables with 10 students
- Extended project time: Substantial work completion during school hours
- Field work integration: Regular off-campus learning connecting concepts to real-world contexts
- Flexible pacing: Acceleration or additional support based on individual student needs
This comprehensive program ensures college-level academic preparation while maintaining engagement and personal growth.
Comprehensive College Counseling Support
College preparation at Templeton Academy begins in 9th grade and intensifies throughout high school, ensuring students make informed decisions about their post-secondary plans and present themselves effectively to college admissions committees.
Four-year college counseling approach:
9th-10th Grade: Foundation Building
- Academic planning: Ensuring students take appropriate courses and maintain strong performance
- Interest exploration: Connecting academic work to potential college majors and career directions
- Skill development: Building study habits, time management, and self-advocacy abilities
- Standardized test preparation: Strategic preparation for PSAT, SAT, and ACT examinations
11th Grade: Focused Preparation
- College research: Identifying institutions aligned with student interests, academic profile, and financial needs
- Application strategy: Developing balanced college lists including reach, target, and safety schools
- Essay development: Crafting compelling personal statements that showcase student voice and experiences
- Interview preparation: Practicing communication skills for college interviews and scholarship opportunities
12th Grade: Application Execution
- Application management: Ensuring timely, complete submission of all application materials
- Financial aid guidance: Navigating FAFSA, CSS Profile, and scholarship opportunities
- Decision support: Helping students evaluate acceptance offers and make final college choices
- Transition preparation: Supporting students as they prepare for college-level independence
This personalized approach ensures each student receives guidance appropriate to their goals, interests, and family circumstances.
Real-World Learning Through Nashville Resources
High school students benefit from Nashville's rich professional and cultural landscape through fieldwork and internship opportunities that provide authentic context for academic learning.
Professional internships with Nashville organizations:
- Healthcare institutions: Medical, research, and healthcare administration career exploration
- Music industry: Business, production, and creative aspects of Nashville's signature industry
- Technology companies: Software development, marketing, and entrepreneurship experience
- Government agencies: Policy, public service, and civic engagement through hands-on involvement
- Non-profit organizations: Community contribution while exploring social service careers
Cultural and historical investigation:
- Music City research: Nashville's cultural evolution and economic impact through interviews and archival research
- Urban development analysis: Working with city planners to understand growth challenges
- Environmental sustainability: Addressing local challenges through research and community partnerships
These experiences connect academic learning to professional opportunities while building networks and exploring career interests.
Comparison to Traditional Prep Schools
Templeton Academy's approach to college preparation differs significantly from traditional Nashville prep schools, offering advantages that better prepare students for modern college and career environments.
Traditional prep school model:
- Large classes focused on standardized test preparation and grade-based competition
- Emphasis on college admissions metrics rather than authentic learning and personal development
- Limited opportunities for real-world application and authentic project work
- Teacher-directed instruction with minimal student voice or choice in learning
Templeton Academy advantages:
- Small seminar classes (10 students) enabling individual attention and college-level discussion
- Focus on critical thinking, creativity, and real-world problem-solving alongside strong academic foundations
- Extensive opportunities for authentic research, community engagement, and professional experience
- Student-centered approach encouraging voice, choice, and ownership of learning
Outcomes comparison: While traditional prep schools often achieve high college acceptance rates through test preparation and grade inflation, Templeton Academy's 95% acceptance rate reflects students who are genuinely prepared for college success through deep learning, self-direction, and authentic intellectual engagement.
Our graduates consistently report feeling better prepared than peers for college-level discussion, independent research, and collaborative projects because they've practiced these skills throughout high school.
Supporting High School Student Development
High school students need both academic challenge and personal support as they develop independence and prepare for adult responsibilities. Templeton Academy's comprehensive approach addresses the whole person during this crucial developmental period.
Student support systems:
- Core Advisory continuation: Ongoing mentorship and guidance from trusted faculty advisors
- Peer collaboration: Small classes and project-based learning build authentic friendships and support networks
- Individual conferences: Regular one-on-one meetings with teachers about academic progress and personal goals
- College and career planning: Systematic exploration of post-secondary options aligned with interests and strengths
- Leadership opportunities: Chances to mentor younger students and contribute to school community
Students develop the self-awareness, resilience, and interpersonal skills essential for college and professional success.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do students perform on standardized tests?
While we don't teach to tests, our project-based approach develops the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that support strong standardized test performance. Students receive targeted test preparation as part of our college counseling program.
Will my child be challenged enough for competitive college admissions?
Our academic program provides substantial rigor through authentic, complex projects that develop deeper thinking skills than traditional test-prep approaches. College admissions officers consistently recognize the quality of our students' intellectual preparation.
How does the high school program prepare students for college independence?
Students practice self-direction, time management, and self-advocacy throughout high school through project management, independent research, and increasing responsibility for their learning goals.
What support is available for students with different learning styles or needs?
Small classes enable individualized instruction and accommodation. Our project-based approach often engages students who struggled in traditional environments, while providing appropriate challenges for advanced learners.
Experience High School Excellence
For Nashville families seeking high schools that prepare students for both college success and meaningful lives, Templeton Academy offers proven outcomes through innovative, engaging education that develops the whole person.
Ready to explore high school at Templeton Academy?
- High school admissions inquiry: Discuss your student's goals and our program alignment
- Schedule interview: Meet with faculty and students to understand our community
- Campus visit: Observe our seminar-style classes and project presentations
- College counseling consultation: Learn about our comprehensive college preparation approach
Contact Information:
- Phone: (615) 601-0893
- Address: 631 2nd Ave. S, Nashville, TN 37210
- Proven results: 95% college acceptance rate with personalized support
Discover how project-based learning, small classes, and comprehensive college counseling create graduates who thrive in college and beyond.