Controversy Strikes Chicago’s Elite Latin School
Once again, the Latin School of Chicago is under fire due to an incident involving anti-Semitism, this time related to middle school students reportedly practicing a march associated with the Nazi regime, as reported by media outlets.
Parents were informed through a letter that students at this prestigious institution—where tuition exceeds $47,000, a figure pushed by Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker—were rehearsing the German march “Erika,” a piece often linked to Adolf Hitler’s regime during World War II.
The school’s letter mentioned that an internal investigation had been initiated after a teacher caught two students discussing the execution of this controversial song.
This very song had alarmingly been performed by middle school band members in November 2024, creating distress among Jewish families who felt that such actions posed a threat to their children’s safety in the school’s already challenging environment. However, the specific consequences faced by the band members remain unclear.
Interestingly, while the lyrics were originally released in 1938 and don’t explicitly mention Nazism, their rhythm is characteristic of military marches favored by Hitler during the war.
In the letter, Principal Thomas Hagerman and Interim Middle School Department Director Kathleen Meade assured parents that anti-Semitism, along with any other form of hate, would not be tolerated at the school. They emphasized their commitment to provide support to students impacted by this situation.
The statement expressed disappointment over the incident, reiterating a collective duty to promote a sense of inclusivity where all community members feel safe and valued.
It remains uncertain if and how the school punished those involved.
In 2022, the Latin School faced a $100 million lawsuit from the parents of a student who tragically took his own life after enduring severe bullying, though the case was dismissed in March 2025.
Notable alumni from the school include Nancy Reagan and William Wrigley Jr. II, heir to the chewing gum fortune.
As of now, the school has not responded to inquiries for further comments.
