The Heights requires its students to study Latin. Why? Is it from a love of the old? Are we simply fascinated by antiquity? To the contrary, there are excellent practical and existential reasons for classical studies. The benefits we seek in language study generally are found to be more powerful within the particular study of Latin. Moreover, speaking the language of the ancients allows us to communicate with them. This bears fruit in our capacity to know the truth, and our ability to serve the polity through well-informed and practical citizenship. Listen in to hear Mr. Myers and Dr. Yaceczko discuss why your sons will spend at least three of their years here learning a language that can help us be fully alive.
About the Authors
Lionel Yaceczko
Latin, Greek
Lionel Yaceczko holds a BA from the University of Dallas, where he wrote a thesis on Propertius, and a MA and Ph.D. from The Catholic University of America. His dissertation on education in the Roman Empire led to the publication of his book Ausonius Grammaticus (Gorgias Press, 2021). He is also the author of an introductory Latin textbook, Jeromeâ€...
Justin Myers
Tenth Grade Core, College Counseling
Teaching at The Heights since 2002, Justin Myers has lived in the Washington area nearly all his life. He attended Holy Redeemer School in Kensington, Maryland, and Georgetown Prep. He earned a B.A. in classics and psychology from Boston College and an M.A. in Latin at the University of Maryland. Prior to coming to The Heights, Justin taught at St. Hugh’s School and DeMatha High School. In addition to his classics responsibilities this year, he continues as the head coach of the cross-country and track team. He currently lives in Olney with his wife, Meredith, and his three children.