Why Latin?
Latin is not a dead language - it is the foundation of the English language, the Romance languages, and the Western intellectual tradition. Students who study Latin understand words from the inside out, think more structurally, and consistently outperform peers on vocabulary-heavy standardized tests.
At Saints Classical, Latin is not an elective. It is a core subject because we believe it is one of the most effective tools for developing sharp, disciplined thinkers.
How We Teach Latin
We use Wheelock's Latin, a rigorous and proven curriculum used in classical schools and universities. Wheelock's introduces grammar and vocabulary in a logical sequence, with readings drawn from actual Roman authors.
Students begin formal Latin instruction in 6th grade. By high school, they are translating primary texts and connecting Latin literature to history, theology, and philosophy. Spanish is also available as a high school language option.
What Parents Should Know
Latin requires regular practice - vocabulary drills, grammar exercises, and translation work. On home days, students reinforce what they learned on campus through assignments tracked in our Classica LMS.
If your child has never studied Latin, that is completely normal. Sixth grade is where everyone starts together. Students joining later can catch up - contact us to discuss placement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Formal Latin instruction with Wheelock's begins in 6th grade (upper school). Younger students in K-5 may encounter Latin vocabulary and roots as part of their grammar-stage learning.
Latin is a core part of our upper school curriculum. High school students may also study Spanish. Contact us for specifics on language requirements by grade.
Yes, though it will require extra effort. We work with families to create a catch-up plan. Many students who start late make strong progress. Contact us to discuss your situation.
Over 60% of English words have Latin roots. Students who study Latin develop a deep, structural understanding of vocabulary that directly improves reading comprehension and verbal scores on standardized tests.
Classical schools teach Latin because it builds vocabulary (over 60% of English words have Latin roots), trains analytical thinking through systematic grammar, makes learning modern Romance languages easier, and connects students to 2,000 years of Western intellectual tradition. At Saints Classical Academy, students study Wheelock's Latin beginning in upper school â a rigorous, proven curriculum used by universities and classical schools worldwide.
Yes. Saints Classical Academy in Spring Hill, TN (about 30 minutes south of Nashville) teaches Latin using Wheelock's Latin. Latin instruction is a core part of the classical curriculum, integrated with history, literature, and theology. The school serves families from Nashville, Franklin, Brentwood, Columbia, Thompson's Station, and across Middle Tennessee.