Consider the students filing through these doors of the Latin School of Chicago. This isn’t just any school. It’s a place steeped in history and known for its rigorous academics.
The Latin School of Chicago’s story began in 1888. A group of parents wanted a better education for their children. Mabel Slade Vickery, a teacher from the East Coast, was invited to start the school. At first, there were only ten 10-year-old boys. Classes were held in private homes on Chicago’s Near North Side. The school grew and moved into its own building in 1899. It officially became Chicago Latin School.
In 1913, Miss Vickery added a girls’ section. It became The Chicago Latin School for Girls. The schools joined together in 1953. They formed the co-educational Latin School of Chicago. The school aimed to give students a strong college-preparatory education. Classical studies influenced the curriculum. Greek and Latin languages were important. That’s why it’s called “Latin School.” Latin is still taught here today.
Originally a neighborhood school, Latin School now welcomes over 1,100 students. They come from about 70 ZIP codes around Chicago. The school provides over $3 million in financial aid each year.
The Latin School of Chicago now has three buildings. The lower school building is the oldest. It dates back to 1926. The upper school building was finished in 1969. The middle school building was completed in 2007. It features a green roof garden. Environmentally friendly materials were used in its construction. The U.S. Green Building Council gave it LEED Gold certification in 2012.
Harry Weese, a famous architect, designed the upper school building. Bridges connect the upper and middle school buildings. Middle school students attend arts and PE classes in the upper school building. High school students take science classes in the middle school’s science center. The average class size is 14 students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 8:1. The school offers more than 150 courses. Many are at the honors level and some at the AP level. A variety of electives are also available.
The Latin School has a strong visual arts department. It is known for its many extracurricular activities. The Global Studies: Visual Arts class is notable. Ninth-grade students recreate master paintings. They add Mickey Mouse as the main character. This project is called Mickey & The Masters. The school has two galleries. They host 14 events each year in Gallery 2.
The Latin School also excels in the performing arts. There are many electives and extracurriculars in this area. The school puts on about 20 performing arts productions and concerts annually. These include plays, band and chorus concerts, and dance performances. The school provides ample funding for these productions.
The Latin School of Chicago’s mascot is the Roman. They compete in the Independent School League.
Many notable people have attended the Latin School. Nancy Reagan, former First Lady, is an alumna. Bob Balaban, an actor and author, is an alumnus. Douglas Diamond, an economist and Nobel Prize winner, is an alumnus.
The Latin School of Chicago has a long and interesting history. It continues to provide a strong education to its students. The school prepares them for college and beyond.