Keeping Latin in Stamford high schools

It has come to our attention that the Stamford Public Schools are planning to phase out Latin in at least two of its high schools, Westhill and Stamford. We think that this is a very unwise move. Latin is a foundational subject that should be available to anyone who aspires to acquire an education that will open up easier access to many fields of knowledge and to many professions and occupations

First, Latin is the ancestor of many modern languages, all of which, including English, can be learned more easily and to a higher degree of complexity if one knows Latin.

Second, much of the specialized terminologies of all of the STEM fields are based on Latin and its sister language, ancient Greek, some knowledge of which is often acquired in Latin classes.

Third, subjects in the humanities and social sciences are also heavily influenced by the history, thought, literature, and culture that one encounters in the study of Latin and are, therefore, easier to master at the college level if one has studied Latin in high school

Fourth, while the study of Latin has always been invaluable to lawyers, doctors, and theologians, it enables people to succeed in any other occupation or profession by teaching the logical and critical thinking necessary to succeed in any human endeavor.

Stamford Public Schools should be doing everything it can to promote Latin rather than phase it out. Please write in support of keeping Latin in all Stamford High Schools to Superintendent Earl Kim <ekim@stamfordct.gov>.

Allen M. Ward Professor Emeritus UConn Board member of ClassConn