The Hastings High School district was first organized in 1863. The building that now houses Hastings High School, Farragut Middle School, and the district offices, was begun in 1902. The first graduating class from the high school was in 1908. The section that now houses the high school was completed in 1911. Since 1964, when Hillside Elementary School was opened, the building has housed middle and high school students. In 1949, the coat of arms of Hastings, England was sent to Hastings High School. The Latin motto on the coat of arms, "Primus Inter Pares, " has become a part of the high school awards program. Translated, the motto means, "first among equals.