I am saying that certain practices have and will continue to create exclusive programs, regardless of intent.įor centuries now, the default approach to teaching Latin has been the grammar-translation approach. I am not saying that all, or even most, of these teachers are trying to create homogenous classes. Often this takes the form of making pedagogical choices that advantage a select few students and disadvantage the rest. So why does Latin continue to maintain this exclusionary and elitist reputation? Shouldn’t these broad stereotypes be quickly debunked by actual experiences? Unfortunately, far too many Latin programs have embraced exclusivity rather than seeking to counteract it.

Who else is going to self-identify as one of the “smart” kids?

Except for the occasional outliers, the overwhelming majority of these students are going to be the most advantaged students in the district. Since Latin classes, in most instances, are not mandatory, the people signing up tend to be a self-selected group of elite students. A place where the best and brightest go to further set themselves apart from the pack. Latin has a reputation for being a language for the “smart” kids. Because I am one of few people on the planet who can call themselves both black and a Latin teacher, I have some unique insights into this problem as well as some practical solutions. Given all of the benefits of learning Latin, why don’t more students of color sign up for Latin in middle or high school? It’s pretty obvious to me what the answer is - but then again, I’m black. In addition, having Latin on your transcript will make colleges and universities drool. Whatever the student’s passion is, Latin will definitely help. From the ancient Romans to the modern day, Latin has been an international language of art, music, science, math, law, government, medicine and everything in between. When students ask me why they should sign up for Latin, I tell them that it is a beautiful language that unlocks a world of wonder. I have spent the last several years of my life teaching Latin to 7th and 8th graders, with the occasional high school class sprinkled in.

Whatever it takes in latin