At Latin School of Chicago, the educational path isn’t one-size-fits-all. The journey from junior kindergarten through 12th grade is intentionally designed to meet the unique needs of every student.
Offering academics that inspire
Latin’s vision for educational excellence reinforces the value of an exemplary liberal arts education that makes learning inquiry-based, personal and inclusive.
Rather than simply conveying information, “educators design experiences where students are the architects of their own understanding,” says Dr. Thomas Hagerman, Head of School. “They ask the big questions, conduct original research, and apply insights beyond the classroom walls.”
- In the Lower School, students build a strong academic and social-emotional foundation through purposeful play and collaborative inquiry. Makerspaces, math labs and integrated learning are staples that invite young minds to tinker, question and design.
- In the Middle School, students further develop independence, executive functioning and self-advocacy. Hands-on learning opportunities immerse them in real-world challenges that nurture their strengths, spark their curiosity and inspire their growth.
- In the Upper School, students engage in challenging academics, build strong connections with their teachers and peers, and learn to think critically and lead confidently. Their learning experiences prepare them to pursue their passions and lead purposeful, accomplished lives.
“Latin offers a wide array of resources and a strong support system that help students thrive both in and out of the classroom,” Hagerman says.
A hallmark of this support, he notes, is an exemplary college counseling program with four on-site staff members and robust programming, including personalized one-on-one guidance beginning junior year.
This individualized approach prepares every student for success in college and beyond. Latin’s college matriculation rate is 100%, the school reports, and its students have been admitted to more than 300 colleges and universities over the past five years.
A culture built on connection and values
Latin believes in fostering an engaged community rooted in a shared purpose, active participation in school life, and meaningful relationships that enrich the student experience and create lasting connections, Hagerman says.
This sense of community is reflected in:
- the Buddy Activities program, which brings together students of all ages for events throughout the year,
- the Romans2Romans program, which pairs freshmen with mentors in grades 10-12, and
- annual Upper School class retreats that build trust and strengthen peer bonds.
The school’s active Parent Association also helps forge connections, hosting more than 150 events and activities each year. That spirit continues after graduation, with alumni frequently returning to speak with, mentor and support current students.
Many opportunities for growth and exploration
Latin offers myriad opportunities that enable students of all ages to discover their interests.
The school prides itself on a strong commitment to experiential learning. One major example is its makerspaces and math labs, available in all three divisions. It also offers division-specific opportunities such as Project Week, global exchanges, collaborative STEM projects, and field trips that leverage Chicago’s vast resources.
Latin has an extensive co-curricular program, too, that includes athletics, performing and visual arts, clubs and affinity groups and after-school enrichment programming.
Athletics
The school’s numerous teams and “no-cut” philosophy give everyone a chance to participate. This is reflected in the fact that 84% of Upper School students and 80% of Middle School students play at least one sport.
There is also a Rising Romans program in the Lower School that helps introduce students to movement, teamwork and fun.
Arts
In the arts, Latin organizes more than 40 performing arts performances annually, gives students the chance to exhibit their work in an on-site gallery, and provides access to resources such as art studios and photography and multimedia labs.
Clubs and groups
Latin’s extensive collection of clubs and affinity groups in the Upper and Middle Schools allow students to connect around identity or interest. Its After School Resource program in the Lower School features a wide range of experiences for its youngest students that include sports/movement, STEAM and strategic thinking/problem-solving-based activities.
Partners
Latin partners with 30+ organizations to give students meaningful community experiences that build civic leadership skills and highlight the value of giving back. These initiatives include tutoring partnerships, blood drives, clothing drives and packing and serving meals.
Growing curious minds and future leaders
Latin’s mission is rooted in more than academic excellence, staff say; it’s committed to discovering and cultivating “curious explorers, inclusive collaborators, critical thinkers, creative communicators and change makers.”
These pillars make up the Portrait of a Latin Learner, which serves as the cornerstone of all learning.
“At Latin, we know that no two learning journeys look the same, so our approach to learning is both personalized and holistic, designed to help every child thrive,” says Erica Washburn, Assistant Director of Academic Affairs.
Here, she notes, students are empowered to explore boldly, think critically and lead with confidence from the first day of school to graduation day.
For families seeking a school that values curiosity, academic challenge and a strong sense of community, Latin School of Chicago may be the right fit.
This content is sponsored by Latin School of Chicago. To learn more, visit the Latin School of Chicago — and discover more Chicago schools in the Best Schools Guide.
