Introduction
Choosing the right high school can help a student grow in many ways. Father Ryan High School, in Nashville, Tennessee, is a co-ed Catholic school that prepares students for college. It has been around for almost 100 years. The school’s motto is “A Tradition of Faith, Knowledge, Service.” Father Ryan helps students grow in their studies, faith, and social skills. With strong classes, faith activities, and clubs, Father Ryan offers a caring place for all students to learn and succeed.
History and Origins of Father Ryan High School
Father Ryan High School was founded in 1925 by Bishop Alphonse Smith, originally as the Nashville Catholic High School for Boys. In 1929, the school moved to Elliston Place and adopted the name Father Ryan High School. Over the years, Father Ryan has been a pioneer in inclusivity. In 1954, it became the first secondary school in Tennessee to fully integrate students of all races. By 1970, the school became co-educational, admitting girls alongside boys.
In 1991, Father Ryan moved to its current 43-acre campus in Oak Hill to accommodate a growing student body. More recently, the school introduced the House System in 2020, strengthening mentorship and community among students. Over the decades, Father Ryan has remained committed to its mission of forming well-rounded, faith-centered students.
Quick Facts About MyFatherRyan
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| School Name | Father Ryan High School |
| Name | MyFatherRyan |
| Founded | 1925 |
| Location | 700 Norwood Drive, Nashville, TN 37204 |
| Type | Co-educational Catholic High School |
| Grades | 9–12 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 11:1 |
| Enrollment | ~830 students |
| Campus Size | 43 acres |
| Courses Offered | 200+ (including Honors & AP) |
| Languages | Spanish, French, Mandarin |
| Extracurriculars | 40+ clubs, athletics, arts programs |
| Sports Teams | 38 (Boys & Girls) |
| State Championships | 73 team titles |
| Alumni | 14,800+ worldwide |
| Tuition (2025–26) | $27,450 (financial aid available) |
| Motto | A Tradition of Faith, Knowledge, Service |
Academic Programs and Curriculum
Father Ryan offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum with over 200 courses, including honors and Advanced Placement classes. Students can earn more than 32 credits toward graduation. The student-teacher ratio is 11:1, and class sizes average 16 students, allowing for personalized attention.
The school provides programs for high-achieving students, such as the Hayes Scholars Program, and support for students with learning differences through the Educational Support Program. Juniors and seniors can also enroll in dual-credit courses through a partnership with Trevecca Nazarene University.
Father Ryan’s curriculum includes:
- STEM courses in the Irish SmartLab
- Languages: Spanish, French, Mandarin
- Arts: over 35 performing and studio courses
This diverse and challenging curriculum ensures students are well-prepared for college and beyond.
Campus and Student Life
The Father Ryan campus resembles a small college setting. Modern classrooms, science labs, athletic fields, arts studios, a chapel, and green spaces provide a welcoming learning environment. Students describe the campus as both beautiful and inviting, where academic and spiritual growth coexist naturally.
The House System divides students into six groups: Elliston, Emerald, Immaculata, Norwood, Oak, and Trinity. Each house promotes mentorship, leadership, and a sense of belonging across grade levels.
Extracurricular life is vibrant, with over 40 clubs and organizations ranging from cultural groups and robotics to faith initiatives. Students can also participate in student government, the school newspaper, performing arts, and community service activities, allowing them to explore their interests and grow holistically.
Athletics and Extracurricular Activities
Athletics play a major role at Father Ryan, with 38 sports teams for both boys and girls. The school has won 73 team state championships, showing a long tradition of competitive success. About 72% of students participate in sports, learning teamwork, discipline, and leadership.
Popular sports include football, basketball, soccer, baseball, track and field, and rugby. Beyond athletics, the school supports the arts through 35 performing and visual arts courses. The student cheering section, known as “the Jungle,” is famous for school spirit, complete with a bagpiper and themed games.
Faith and Community Involvement
Faith is at the core of Father Ryan’s identity. Students participate in daily prayers, weekly Mass, retreats, and special services like Eucharistic adoration. The school emphasizes living out Catholic values in practical ways.
Service projects are central to campus life. The Relay For Life event, organized by students, raises significant funds for the American Cancer Society, with totals exceeding $2 million to date. Students also participate in local community projects and advocacy programs, such as the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C.
Admissions Process and How to Apply
Families interested in enrolling at Father Ryan start with the online admissions portal. The application process includes:
- Submitting an online application with an $85 fee
- Registering for the High School Placement Test (HSPT)
- Requesting transcripts and test scores from grades 7–8
- Submitting teacher and administrator recommendations
- Scheduling a family interview
Admission decisions are typically mailed in late February, with enrollment deadlines in early March. The Admissions Office is available to guide families through each step.
Tuition, Financial Aid, and Scholarships
The 2025–26 tuition is $27,450, with a 15% discount for families with multiple students. Financial aid is available, with about half of students receiving some form of assistance, including need-based grants and merit scholarships.
Father Ryan participates in Tennessee’s ESA/EFS school-choice scholarship programs, which can significantly reduce tuition costs. The school emphasizes that financial aid applications do not affect admissions decisions, ensuring accessibility for families from diverse backgrounds.
Alumni Network and Legacy
Father Ryan has a strong alumni community of over 14,800 members worldwide. Alumni stay connected through reunions, newsletters, and social events. They offer guidance and support to current students, continuing a legacy of success.
Graduates have a strong record of academic achievement, earning scholarships and gaining admission to colleges across the nation. Being part of Father Ryan means joining a lasting Irish family, with decades of tradition and community support.
Conclusion
Father Ryan High School offers a balanced and enriching experience. Students grow academically and socially in a supportive environment. With rigorous academics, diverse extracurricular opportunities, and a strong sense of faith and service, Father Ryan prepares students for success in college and life.
