Student Comments:

Julia Gordon (8th grade, Culbreth Middle School): I think the World Languages are really important because they allow us to communicate
with different cultures and can be applied to a variety of places, not just in a job or in a classroom. Some students have devoted themselves to learning Latin or French, and now the district is just going to take it away, even if some are in their senior year? We need to preserve these priceless classes! Not only did Latin give me an extra edge in Social Studies, when we studied Roman history, but also in English and all the other language classes. Rome was the origin of our known world, and knowing Latin has helped me in so many subjects. Also, I made so many life-long friends from all different grade levels, and Magistra Meyer is the best teacher I have ever had. My little sister is in fourth grade, and she really had her heart set on taking Latin, and now she won’t be able to. I hope the district will allow us to continue with these classes, so that my sister can experience the joy and the community of the Latin classroom.

Ryan Reszka (Culbreth): Ms. Meyer has been my favorite teacher I’ve ever had. My brother is going into 6th grade next year, and won’t get to have the class that interests him. A lot of his friends are also not going to be able to have the amazing 3 years the rest of us had with Magistra Meyer.

Asher Guaman (Culbreth Middle School): Cutting the arts programs and the language programs will hurt this community so much. Cutting all these languages will just prove every non-American right, that we’re just a bunch of rude uncultured idiots. When Magistra Meyer broke the news to our class, I don’t think I’ve ever seen her so heartbroken. It ticked me off. All the 6th graders who are in exploratory Latin right now won’t get the chance to learn all the history that Magistra has taught us. There isn’t one person who doesn’t know how good of a teacher she is. She has been `patient, kind and understanding with each and every one of her students. Ruining the future of a whole generation of kids isn’t a good look for our district.

Wren Rangel Galassi (Culbreth Middle School): It isn’t a thing about not having enough kids, it’s not about Mrs. Meyer, it’s not even about the program. Why cut it? Every kid I’ve met loves Mrs. Meyer and loves the subject. It’s truly sad to see other kids get the opportunity to get to know Mrs. Meyer torn away from them, Mrs. Meyer is one of the best, or the best teacher I’ve ever had. She genuinely cares about her students and her class unlike some teachers. I’ve been with Mrs. Meyer for 3 years and she has helped me so much with everything, my mental health and my studies. Latin is a class I look forward to everyday, it’s the sole reason I go to school each day. I love Mrs. Meyer and who she is. It is a horrible thing to see happen to her, so please, do not take her job from her.

Preston Mason (Culbreth): When I entered Latin, I wasn’t sure how it would turn out, but it turned out awesome! Ms. Meyer is truly one of, if not, the best teacher I’ve ever had. When I walk into her class, I get a strong feeling of euphoria which doesn’t leave me until the day ends. Because of how awesome Latin is, I aim to get a college degree in Latin and eventually teach it to other kids who are as interested in Latin as us.

Ruby Garland (East Chapel Hill High): I decided to take Latin I in 7th grade because I heard that the Latin teacher at Culbreth was fantastic. And Ms. Meyer certainly is. Latin quickly became my favorite class, and when class registration for the next year rolled around, I didn’t even need to think about whether or not to take it. Latin continued to be my favorite class throughout eighth grade. The subject matter was so interesting to me, and, again, Ms. Meyer was an absolutely incredible teacher. I decided to continue taking Latin in high school and… it was my favorite class again. And it’s my favorite class this year. I’ve absolutely loved the Latin programs at both Culbreth and East, and denying other students the life-changing experience I had seems like a huge missed opportunity. Latin has undoubtedly changed my academic journey for the better. It’s consistently been a highlight of my school day for almost four years!

Madison Stark (Culbreth): I took Latin in 6th grade and I took it again this year. It is one of my favorite classes. Latin has helped me on the NC- check ins and just ELA in general. I’m very sad it is getting cut. My little sister was going to take it and when I told her there wasn’t going to be a program she was upset.  I love Ms. Meyer and the class in general and I’m very upset to see it go.

Lily DiGiovanna (Culbreth Middle): When Magistra Meyer told us that she would only have one more year at Culbreth, you could see the sadness in our latin students. The class is absolutely phenomenal and is by far my favorite part of the day. Not only does Mrs. Meyer come up with exciting projects and lessons for us every day, she spends time working on our Gens and famae. The amount of hard work she puts in every day for our school is incredible, and Mrs. Meyer is always so positive towards her students. Magistra Meyer is such an important part of our school and so many alumni have put work into the classroom. Every one of us knows that these teachers deserve their jobs, and have changed lots of our lives. I am heartbroken to see Latin go, and hope we can change this.

Joshua Bosworth (Carrboro High): I’ve had the pleasure of taking three classes taught by Mrs. Meyer: Mythology, Latin I, and Latin II. Not only can I speak to her incredible teaching skills, but it’s also worth noting her unmatched dedication to helping others learn, her importance of equity as well as making her classroom a safe and comfortable space for students (LGTBQ+ safe zone, non-judgemental expectations, and many group activities, causing classroom bonds to be strengthened and friendships to be forged), her installment of motivation in students prompted by extra credit opportunities and engaging class material, her creativity (One great example is giving students latin names), and an immeasurable amount of more qualities as both a teacher and caring human. Furthermore, Mrs. Meyer still offers opportunities to the admin of her classes;  even three years after taking Latin II, they’re still many ways for myself and others to get involved, such as painting the walls of her classroom during summertime (this furthers my points of creativity and the classroom’s friendly environment). No teacher can ever compare to her level of empathy, kindness, and teaching skills, and I’m extremely disheartened to hear this decision; a re-consideration is well in order.

Sebastian Kaylie (East Chapel Hill High): I have been in Latin for 6 years from 1 to AP and Ms Hoffman has been my teacher for 5. Latin has always been a meaningful and fun class to me, it has kept me on my toes as my hardest class every year. I have long lamented the struggles of the class yet it has single handedly improved my studying habits so much to keep up. Ms Hoffman has always been an encouraging amazing teacher, she would always let me take my tests late when I needed to after working in theater. She has always helped me find the areas I’ve needed to improve and is a delightful fun personality, she never hands you the answer but always always always makes sure you have the tools you need to find it. The class itself has allowed me as well to get a much more meaningful understanding of Roman history. Getting to actually piece together history yourself by actually doing the translations is an extremely unique experience and has gotten me quite invested in Roman history, something not really offered anywhere else in the school system. This decision to pare down the program is extremely sad to me. I hate the idea that other students may not have that experience to be challenged, learn, and grow in that same unique way.

Quinn Reynolds (CHHS) -- Currently, I am a Latin IV student at Chapel Hill High School. My first Latin class was Latin II with Mr. Holmes at ESmith Middle School. Before that, he was my homeroom teacher. He is one of my favorite teachers at Smith and I think he taught the class very well. In freshman year, I took Latin III with Ms. Keener. She was also an amazing teacher, and I was sad to see her move away. After she left, I’m not happy to say that the Latin program at CHHS practically fell apart. This year, I signed up for Latin IV. I was put into a class with Dr. Beeby, who I believe is the L gym atin teacher at Phillips. It turns out that the school was only having him teach one class which contained three levels of Latin, III, IV, and V. Before this year, I knew that Latin III and Latin IV and V were two separate classes, and the materials were drastically different, so when I learned about the situation this year, I was frankly very disappointed. A few weeks into the year, we had gotten used to splitting class time between Latin III and Latin IV and V, when Ms. Hoffman, the Latin teacher at ECHHS, offered to teach the advanced Latin class virtually through Google Meet. Personally, I was delighted to have a teacher who would have their focus on my class for the whole period, as was intended. This solution is the best we have right now, and I would say it’s working quite well. I think it is especially important to note that Ms. Hoffman is taking her planning period to teach my class, which is incredibly generous of her. Next year, however, I don’t know how we will take Latin. At CHHS, we only have one in-person teacher, and he is getting laid off at the end of the year. At this point, Latin may not exist at CHHS next year, and they may either put us in one of our alternate courses or they will put us into an NCVPS course. Now, I’ve taken 2 VPS courses in high school, and I’m taking a third this year, so I can speak from a whole lot of experience here: they’re not nearly as good as having an in-person class. Some classes can work well virtually and asynchronously, like the CompSci course I took virtually last year. However, I think languages in general are best taught face-to-face, and it would be horribly detrimental to move them to virtual. As for the option where we get put into alternate classes, I am also concerned about my language credits. While I may be in Latin IV, I only will have 3 credits by the end of this year. 3 credits is enough to graduate, but I would like to aim for 4 so that I can be more confident when applying to college. There are also students in Latin I, II, and III who don’t have all their credits yet, and killing off the Latin program would hurt them significantly. Not to mention that taking Latin in middle and high school is very beneficial to a student, and there is evidence to prove that students who take Latin do better on the ACTs and SATs than students who do not. Latin can also help you with vocabulary, grammar, and learning other romance languages later on. I know that the decision to cut Latin is not based on a lack of teachers, or a lack of students who are interested. Cutting this program would negatively impact so many people across the district, and I cannot stress enough how bad of an idea this really is. Latin classes are enough of a mess already, I don’t want this headache next year, too.

August Katsaounis (CHHS):

World languages are incredibly important, as they allow us to understand the people around us. Spanish and French are commonly spoken in the US. Latin isn’t spoken anywhere, but it is the foundation of romance languages and still has derivatives in other languages to this day. The Latin program in CHCCS has given us extensive knowledge on the language, the way it affects English and other languages today, and the history of the Roman people.

It is also very clear how many people take World Language classes and how much they care about them. I was the 101st person to sign this petition, and after only one school period thirty more people had signed. There are many students in the district with a deep interest in World Languages, and for many reasons. Some may be planning on moving to a French-speaking country, which would hardly be possible without knowledge of the language and culture. There are no countries that speak Latin, but it can be considered a jack of all trades, providing insight into the inner workings of language as a whole, helping us to understand linguistic history. Latin is not a common class to be offered in schools, and we are all very lucky to have it.

Learning World Languages also provides an opportunity for students to learn about cultures other than the U.S. These opportunities are provided in some classes as well, but World Languages offers a more extensive dive into specific cultures. LET WORLD LANGUAGES LIVE!

Imogen Moon:

I recently spent a year abroad in Germany for the US government (funded by the State Department) and I learned just how important learning a world language is, but also history (which is what Latin is). Latin creates an amazing foundation to learning more languages when you grow older. Learning a world language opens so many more doors. I went into my program not speaking German and not knowing another language created alienation, because it is selfish in other countries to not attempt to learn the language of where you are living. It will open so many more doors for students, plus it creates a very interesting insight to our own language. It creates more of a connection with other countries, and maybe the kid who developed a love of language can go into diplomacy. Taking away Language programs will be incredibly harmful to students, as it creates new pathways in one's brain and a stronger brain. Magistra Meyer was a large part in opening me up to my interest in exploring the world. Her class was one of those that you looked forward to every day, regardless of how your day was going. She is so important to so many students and taking that class and safe space away from students will create an even greater impact.

 A Letter from a Latin Student 

(Carrboro High School - Clare Stanelle, 11th Grade)

This was a long letter, here’s an excerpt:

“Magistra Meyer is one of the most dedicated teachers you will find. She knows each and every one of her students, and is always there to celebrate their successes and encourage their dreams. In my memory, her classes are a blur of laughter, conjugation charts, and creativity. More than anything, these classes challenge students to step out of their comfort zones, learn something they’ve never learned before, and create support networks that will last for years after the class has ended. It is a safe space during a time of change, transformation, and uncertainty. I would venture a guess that over ninety percent of her students spend time outside of class involved in this thriving community that furthers their Latin education but also their crucial social-emotional development. It is a place where new names are given but identities are formed. Friendships forged in that classroom remain strong to this day. Competition is friendly, but loyalty and unity are stronger. There is a legacy of students who came before and an energy among the students who are there now. There is not a single other place I have ever seen tweens and teens so excited, caring, and empathetic about a school topic. If you are considering cutting this class, I suspect you have never once set foot in it. The bottom line is this: there is more to Latin classes than Latin.”

“I understand the urge to dismiss Latin as a place where you can trim the district’s budget; I ever can dare to assume that Latin will not be offered at Carrboro High School at all. However, I will take the risk of offending you to tell you that dismantling the Culbreth Latin program would be a foolish mistake. Look at the community that has presented itself in defense of this program; current students, alumni, and future students would suffer at the destruction of the program. I cannot speak to the numbers, but every class I took was overflowing. There was never a void of happiness, family, connection, or even simple participation…

...[P]lease consider the risks of cutting these programs. By trimming down other languages to fit a budget, you will flood a Spanish program that is already overcrowded or remove an equitable opportunity to receive high school credit. You will remove diversity from our schools and encourage a conformity and standardization of the Middle school and high school path. This is not only a mistake, but one that will go against every value this school district claims to follow. Consider this decision carefully; it will showcase the beliefs and practices that this district adheres to. Know what your decision tells this community, and understand the consequences of that decision on a district with already shrinking enrollment…

While you may not understand the beauty created in the paint-covered classroom I remember, I hope you can see that this diversity of opinions, this family created out of strangers, and this wonderful, magical class deserves to be protected. I am not overstating anything when I say this; the middle school Latin program changed my life. No, I unfortunately have no plans of becoming a Latin teacher in the near future, but I have learned so much from these classes. Magistra Meyer taught each of her kids who had burning passions for just about anything, that they were each special and capable of anything.”

Hannigan Powers (CHHS): I know a lot of people who take Latin and French classes and they love them a lot. People who are in these classes have either been talking them for a while or have just started taking them and want to continue. It would be hard for people to switch to a new language because it would be new for them and they learned so much in a different language. People benefit a lot from learning languages.

Andrii Kromchenko (SMS - 8th): As a foreigner, I see the value of preserving these language programs extreme. We need to understand that this will not stop at French and Latin, this is a common case of people in power valuing their pockets over our future. We can no longer just read the news articles and get upset, we must take action as it is now us and many others in the future on the chopping block. This is not a matter of some conservative or liberal ideology, this is a clear matter of right and wrong. While a few dollars are saved, we fall behind every other district in this sector. Take leadership, persevere, and do what you must, best wishes to everyone.

Gintas Brandes (8th Grader Smith Middle School)

I think that taking French is a really good opportunity to learn a new language, and even better, just learn in general. You learn so much in these intellectual classes and learn new phrases that are thought provoking. I have been taking french since I was a 6th grader and never disliked it. As an 8th grader right now, I see no reason why we should stop having French and Latin classes, because they do so much for you as a person and push you to be as strong as you can be. It doesn’t seem fair that the School Board has to punish the French and Latin classes, but not something simple like the Art classes or the Spanish classes. This seems so unfair to me, and this petition is something that can change the ideas of the powers that be. French is amazing! Save the Languages!!

Hillel Landman-Feldman (ECHHS - 10th) As someone who dealt with bullying in middle school, Latin class has always been a safe haven for me. I’ve loved the ability to join with birds of a feather and learn skills that can be applied not just to Latin, but to many other fields. It would be cruel to cut Latin from the CHCCS district: the program is one of the few safe havens for nerds like me.

Claire Werry (Culbreth Middle School, 8th) If someone had told me 4 years ago I would be taking Latin in middle school, and planning to continue it in high school, I would have told them they were nuts. Now, I could not imagine taking anything else. And this is all because of Magistra Meyer. Looking back, when I chose my electives for middle school I could not have imagined being where I am right now. But here we are. Taking Latin at Culbreth has truly been an amazing experience, and it is all because of this incredible teacher. Walking into the Latin classroom, you immediately are struck by the obvious culture and care put into every part of the room. Ms. Meyer has created an incredible community that can’t be replaced. People who don’t even take her class know her and her impact on Culbreth. Please allow the future generations to be able to enjoy the incredible opportunity she offers at our school.

Mary Mask (CHS, 12th) As a senior in high school who took Mythology, Latin I, and Latin II in middle school, I can confidently say that Magistra Meyer has been one of the most influential teachers I’ve ever had. Her ability to inspire learning in her students is a rare gift that only a few other teachers have matched. At Culbreth, there is no Latin program without Magistra Meyer. Knowing that future generations of Culbreth students will be robbed of the opportunity to learn from her makes me immensely sad as well as disappointed in this district’s decision making.

Kisaye James (10th CHHS):

World languages are very important for the education and wellbeing of students. I moved to this district in 7th grade, and part of the reason we decided on CHCCS is because of the amazing language program. Many other districts only have one or two programs but CHCCS has 3 strong ones with many other options online or at the high school level. Research has shown that being able to speak another language not only shows higher intelligence levels, but makes you a more well rounded person. To be able to step into a foreigner's shoes of starting from scratch teaches empathy and respect for others. In these classes, we are also learning about different cultures and ways of living, leaving students more open minded and educated. Lastly, I’ve learned from personal experience that language teachers have a huge impact on student life. I'm a 10th grade student, and every chance I get I always stop by at my old middle school to talk to my old French teacher. My current French teacher is by far my favorite at CHHS. Not only is her class engaging and fun, but contrary to many of my other classes I always feel as though I learned something truly new about other cultures and myself. I strongly urge the administration to keep all language (and arts!) programs and not cut student facing positions.

Anastasiya Kiseleva (8th SMS): I have been taking French since sixth grade, and I’m planning to take Latin in the future. French has been my favorite elective throughout middle school. Not only is the class itself interesting and educational, but the teacher is kind, tolerant, and funny. Madame McDade makes the class engaging and fun, and there hasn’t been a day where I’ve dreaded going to French class. She’s definitely been one of my favorite teachers throughout my entire academic experience. Imagining that future SMS students won’t have a teacher like her is something I don’t even want to think about. Additionally, French and Latin classes help middle school students learn about beautiful languages, cultures, and countries, and open opportunities for the future. Having languages other than Spanish offers variation and incites interest in students around all schools in the district. Removing French and Latin programs will create a detrimental blow to the enjoyment and education of students in middle and high school. For the good of students and teachers, keep the Latin and French programs!

Madeline Ramsden (Culbreth Class of 2017): I took Latin and Mythology during my time at Culbreth. I continued taking Latin classes in high school and mythology in university because these middle school classes and Magistra Meyer inspired a love of the subjects in me. I still have friends I made from those classes and it is those classes in large part that keep me connected to the community. Additionally, the French-Latin combined field trip allowed me to travel outside of the country for the first time and provided an experience that could not be replaced. These classes are unique and offer important context to both modern and ancient language. The loss of these programs would limit the learning and experience of the students in this district.

Ella Horrigan (Culbreth Middle School): When I walk into the large, colorfully painted room in Culbreth’s language hallway, I feel a sense of belonging and happiness. I have, in a sense, grown up in this room. I have enjoyed sticking with Latin for 3 years and I have spent so much extra time doing things for this class. I intend to take Latin my freshman year as well. So much of my love for Latin comes from one individual. This individual is Magistra Meyer. She has been at Culbreth for over a decade, and since then she has brought in hundreds of students and awakened their passions for languages and life. She and all the other wonderful world language teachers in the district discovered their passion through languages and are now faced with unemployment and sadness for losing their jobs. Students are also wrought with grief and anger. When my mother told me the terrible news, we both cried because Latin has been such a wonderful place of joy and passion for me. French as well! I take both! And I will weep at the injustice of how these wonderful teachers, not just Magistra Meyer, will be losing their jobs and these students who are losing education and opportunities.

Caroline Werry (Rising 6th grader, Rashkis Elementary): I was so excited to have Latin as my 6th grade elective, and longer if I liked it. My sister, Claire Werry (8th grade, Culbreth middle school) would talk about how amazing Latin is and how much of an awesome community it is, because of Magistra Meyer. I was so excited to try it. My friend knows she is going to take Latin, and I know how sad she is going to be to hear that Latin is going to be cut. When I walked into the classroom on elective night, she was so warm and welcoming. I can’t imagine Culbreth ever being the same without her.

Eliora Singer (East Chapel Hill High): I have been taking French since I was in first grade. I am now in French IV, and I have had the pleasure of learning from both French teachers here at East. Earlier this week (week of March 10th), Madame Huet shared the heartbreaking news that Madame Guffey will no longer be working at our school next year. There are a few main concerns about this. Madame Guffey will no longer have insurance, and will therefore not be able to care for her various health needs, which has sparked concern for her from several students within the community. Additionally, Madame Huet will need to teach all French levels on top of handling a very long commute to and from school every day. Madame Huet makes learning French entertaining, and is willing to chat and joke with her students. Her personality and unique teaching style bring a special kind of engagement into the French classroom. From silly art projects to writing haikus to playing board games, Madame Huet’s class gives many new language learning opportunities and experiences to students. I’m worried that if she has to teach all French levels, her personality and spirit will dim as she stretches herself too far.

Laura Jane Williams (10th, Chapel Hill High) In 8th grade at McDougle Middle School, I had French class first period and it was the best way to start my day. Madame Rey made the classroom feel so welcoming and I learned so many new things in her class, not only about French vocab and conjugation, but also about Francophone countries and their culture. Now, as a French 4 student at Chapel Hill High School, I am learning things that not only help with the class itself, but also important life lessons and how to be a caring, involved, and more informed member in my community. French has helped me with my English classes as well, widening my vocabulary and helping me explain things in a more creative and less traditional way than the English teachers typically teach.  If you cut language classes at the middle school level, it will have a ripple effect, negatively impacting the high school language courses as well. My brother has been excited about enrolling in French ever since I decided to in 6th grade, and now he is devastated that that won’t be an option for him. Language teachers are some of the most caring teachers in the school district, because they actually want to be there and care about what they are doing. My French class is one of my most challenging classes, but it is also my favorite because I am learning so many new things in a fun and creative way! Firing language teachers and cutting their jobs will be terrible for the school environment.

Kaleb - 8th at Culbreth: Magistra Meyer is one of the best Latin teachers at Culbreth (No offense to other teachers), She is a great teacher, she is always making up fun activities for us. The tests are always easy and have made me laugh from the memes on the back. We should not do this, my sister was really excited to do Latin next year, but she's gonna be devastated with it being removed from our district. I was the one who told her about Latin and how it is a really fun course, now I feel bad because she will not be able to take it yearlong or as a language. I really wanted her to be happy and have a great teacher at her middle school, and I feel sad that she won’t be able to experience that. If they don’t fire most of the language teachers, like my brother's French teacher, More kids will be going to latin. It will ruin highschools and middle schools. I definitely would not have made it through middle school without one fun class.

Julia Lorenz - 9th Grade East Chapel Hill High School

While I no longer take Latin as a class, I know what the Latin program is like. I went to Culbreth and absolutely adored Ms. Meyer. Removing Latin and French from schools is very bad because some people, especially in high school, will have to switch in their middle years (rising sophomore and junior) which is not a very good look on college applications. Not only is it going to affect students, but also many teachers, who by the way already don’t make enough money to live a stable life with one job. And firing those teachers will probably ruin not only a teacher’s life, but also if they have family. By removing languages, more people are going to flood other languages such as Spanish, which in turn will not do anything because you will still need to hire more teachers, which will not save money. If action is also taken to remove French, then high schoolers might not be able to take the language credits which are needed to get into a good college. I also take French, because frankly I find it way more interesting than Spanish. I absolutely adore my French teacher because she is genuinely so nice and caring, and actually teaches you, and helps you achieve your needs. I would be devastated if my French teacher was fired. I feel like we should be handling other major issues like bullying? debt? mental health? But no. Removing languages also impacts student’s mental health because, at least at Culbreth, the Latin and French departments are very welcoming and fun. And here I am, sitting in my French class while writing this, saying that removing Latin and French is probably, if not the worst idea this school district has had in a very long time.

Dory Buckley (6th grade, Culbreth Middle School.)- Latin changed me and my brother's life. Most days my brother would come home and tell me a story from mythology or a new word he learned in Latin or how awesome Magistra Meyer was. I was so excited to learn Latin and now, I finally go to Culbreth and was just told that I would only be allowed to learn Latin for 2 years. I had planned to take Latin through highschool but, since some board members that I will never meet say "Latin is done.” When I am in eighth grade it will stop. I was told this news yesterday as of writing this. I cried myself to sleep that same day. Taking latin away would be taking away part of the community. So anyone and everyone stand up for what is right. Love boys.

Aidan Oshman  (7th Grade, Smith Middle School) - Latin was and still is an incredible class. Being able to learn the complex ways of the Romans really inspired me and it's so much fun every day. The experience has really allowed me to understand many more languages easier as you can trace many languages back to Latin. Overall Latin is a life changer and should be saved.

Ella Rosen - I am in total agreement with and echo all of the points made above regarding the incredible talent of these teachers, the interruption of the curriculum, benefits of learning a language, etc. I understand that we are in dire straits right now financially, but this is not the solution.

Naomi Dedesma- I think that our Latin and French programs should be continued. Perhaps our budget is a bit small, but I know that to have a thriving population we need education. Foreign language is an important subject to teach. These teachers are not only educating us about the language, but also the culture. It is just as important to know our culture than it is to know French culture and Roman culture. Not only those two, but all cultures are important. There are so many pros to keeping our Latin and French programs! I know the Latin and French teachers at Culbreth Middle, and they are truly wonderful teachers! I have a proposal. What if students, as a school project, do math to calculate how much it would save if we didn’t use styluses. These teachers do so much for so little. It seems just so unfair that the people who have sacrificed so much now have to be laid off. I just hope that whoever reads this considers how important and impactful the Latin and French programs are. If you’ve seen  how many people have signed this, and ask them, I’m sure that they would agree. I have seen so many people’s lives been touched by these programs. Not only are the Latin and French programs about learning the language, but they’re also all about community. Let me tell you, getting rid of French and Latin sets the precedent for no one to care about important language and arts. This puts what some people value most on the chopping block. To be frank, I think everyone who has tried to get rid of these programs is slow. Languages are one of the most important things in this world! In conclusion, learning languages shows huge cognitive benefits and better academic performances. Think about what it would be like if our country’s next generation didn’t get these benefits. They’d have missed out on so much! Languages give better cultural understanding as well as historical and literary connection. Learning languages late is much harder. In middle school, languages are much more able to stick than when someone is older. Not only are languages fun and good for you now, but they open the door to a whole world of jobs, communities, friends, schools, towns, cities, countries, and more! Please, please, please do not cut these programs.

Elias Grofic - I have been taking Latin for 2 years now, which might not seem like that much, but I have learned so much from my wonderful Latin teacher. Anyone that has taken a Latin or French class for more than a year knows how important it is to them. When I walk into the Latin classroom, I feel like I belong there. I have a lot more friends than I would have if I didn’t take Latin, and the subject is really fun.  I will be really mad if the school system gets rid of Latin and French, so please for the love of everything living, DON’T GET RID OF LATIN!!!

Bailey Wood

I didn’t take Latin my 6th grade year, but I have only heard good things about the teacher and how much everyone loves it! I did take French and I LOVED it so much. I think the reason I loved it so much was because of the teacher. She is so kind and caring, and most importantly amazing at her job and loves all of her students! I personally think she is the best teacher I have ever had. Taking a language is so important to me and everyone who does at Culbreth, and they should not get rid of Latin or French ever because it is SO important for you to know another language because that will help you a lot in life. *I also think that they should just not spend so much money on things like field trips and fun events and focus on the more important things that really help us in school! (I’m not saying that they shouldn’t spend money on that kind of stuff, but just less money!)

Don’t Get Rid Of Our Favorite Teachers!!

Liza Francini (7th, SMS)–

At Smith Middle School, I have taken both Latin and French classes. I will say hands-down that Magister Holmes and Madame McDade are two of the greatest teachers I have ever had, and they enhance my learning experience a thousand percent. Madame McDade has supported me with her kind, humorous, and fun-loving demeanor. She provides us with highly interactive activities in French class that allow us to really grasp the concept she’s teaching us, whether it be history or grammar. The language itself is very hands-on, and I love seeing cognates and how different parts of the language are very, very similar to Italian, which I am learning as well because of my Italian family. I love French, and I truly appreciate the teachers that take the time to educate us on the “Language of Love.” Also, French is spoken in many different countries across the planet, and I feel that learning it will contribute to people being connected globally. Taking Latin now, I can really see the benefits of learning a now-unused language. Seeing derivatives of Latin words in our very own English is very satisfying and helps me understand words I’ve never seen before. Magister Holmes does a great job of sticking concepts into our brain. Sure, I’ve never seen them before, but Magister Holmes encourages us to learn the vocabulary, to memorize the declensions. Latin is much more complex than I had previously realized, as not only are there verb conjugations, as in French, but there are also noun forms such as cases. The grammar and structure behind these cases give us the building blocks for modern-day English, and I really feel that Latin has helped me become better at forming sentences and understanding grammar concepts. For example (in relation to English), the nominative case in Latin is the English equivalent of the subject of a sentence, while the accusative case is used for the direct object. Moving on, Roman history is so complex and colorful, and there’s a lot to learn about. I love that Latin students get to commute to Italy during spring break every couple of years, because we can get an up-close look at how the Romans really lived. Thank you to all of the teachers and staff across the district that help us with our French and Latin programs, as learning a language is a treasure that no one can take from you.

Mira Polak (6th, Smith Middle School)

Latin should not be removed because it's my favorite elective and Mr. Holmes is my favorite teacher and he would lose his job. Also I really wanted to take Latin at Chapel Hill High School after 7th and 8th grade. I would not take any other languages because Latin is my favorite language. Also, I've been waiting for 5 years to take Latin after hearing my brothers talk about how great Mr. Holmes. If you take away Latin, I would only get one semester of Latin. I didn’t even have time to learn that much in one semester. Latin really helps with your English and understanding words and their roots so you can be a better student and be successful in life.

Madison Heacock (11th grade, Chapel Hill High School)

I have been a participant in both the Latin and French language programs for 5 years collectively, first taking Latin and French at Smith Middle School and now Chapel Hill High School where I am currently enrolled in Latin V and AP French Language and Culture. Both Latin and French have been a great part of my life for the past five years and I would hate to see other students not have the same opportunity to explore subjects that they enjoy, and even if they do not personally see the benefits of Latin or French they will still walk away with a greater understanding of the world and cultures. Throughout my years of studying Latin and French I have learned many things that I believe are integral to my passions and worldview.

There is often this idea presented that Latin is a “dead language” and has no value to current people today; when I started learning Latin I hated it because I went into it for practical reasons like learning common words in law and medicine -- basically everything non Latin obsessed people say to rope you into learning Latin. Eventually I got to liking the simplicity and organization of it: the memorization of vocabulary words as well as declensions and conjugations (grammar things, in case you're not a language nerd), which were very comforting to think about because it was very organized and logical. Once the language became more nuanced and the grammatical concepts became more abstract I began to appreciate Latin with more depth; I began to learn that Latin is a sort of window into how people and society used to live, it is a window into one of the most iconic empires in western history. I suppose I like it so much because Latin is a “dead language”, it is a language frozen in time and space forever, which allows people centuries later to experience the same genuine instances and reactions (while reading) in Latin literature, such as reading the Aeneid for the first time, or reading any number of Ovid’s poems many times over. It is a way to see literature untouched by time, and even literature that inspired many more contemporary writers. It is a testament to a dead society that could draw many similarities to society today, and was even the inspiration for it; I just think Latin in and of itself is unique for that reason.

As for French I have been taking it for five years as well and throughout my experience I have learned many things about the Francophone world currently and historically; it has helped me understand the nuance of many different cultures throughout the world as well as be able to communicate with many different people across the world. French and Latin in conjunction have also deepened my understanding of both the English language and the nuance, connection, and complexities of languages as a whole.

Having taken both languages for over 5 years has given me a deeper understanding of the world historically, how it was, and the world today. Understanding language is the undercurrent of civilization as a whole, if humans cannot communicate with one another then we are all doomed to be isolated in our own minds, and unable to share thoughts, emotions, or progress as a society. If we do not strive to communicate with each other, as learning languages do, then this foundation of human connection will be lost and therefore erase what makes us fundamentally human.

        Given current events in the world right now -- marked by increasing efforts to censorship, wars, and a rise in authoritarian rhetoric -- it seems counterintuitive to limit students’ access to world language and their window into cultures of the world both past and present. Knowledge is nothing without the ability to communicate it. Removing language programs does not just take away words; it takes away the ability to fully understand and connect with the world.

Natalie Fitzhugh (11th, Chapel Hill High School)

As a district, we strive to provide students with the best education possible. World languages are a huge part of that; students who learn another language are better prepared for the “real world”, better prepared for a career, and better educated about the world around them. Sure, no one speaks Latin anymore, but they did once and left behind their thoughts in written form; being able to understand Latin means learning about the culture it came from. Knowing Latin is incredibly beneficial for a number of professions, from historians to doctors to lawyers, and helps students foster an interest in history. Similarly, French can expose students to new cultures and allows them to connect with others in a way that they otherwise wouldn’t. I’ve definitely met a lot of lifelong friends through my language class, and speaking another language gives me more options for networking  and places to live in the future. I don’t want these advantages and opportunities to be ripped away from younger students.

Stella Ashley (7th Grade, Culbreth Middle School)

I attend Culbreth Middle School. I unfortunately don’t take Latin, but I do take French. The French classroom is right next to the Latin classroom, and every morning I watch as the Latin kids excitedly go into the classroom, getting greeted by Ms. Meyer. I have numerous friends who take Latin, and they enjoy it so much, and it would be such a shame to see this experience being taken away from kids who want to take Latin in the future. Even though I don’t take Latin, I know it’s truly an inspiring class to take, especially inspiring kids to take it in college. I also know it definitely does increase knowledge for kids in the Language Arts subject. Academics is obviously a huge thing, especially Language Arts. Taking Latin can really increase your vocab, and overall it’s just such a good class to take. Moving onto French. My sister, who is now a graduate, came to America in 8th grade to Culbreth Middle School. This unfortunately meant she couldn't take French 2, because she never took French 1. Even though she couldn’t actually take French, she still wanted to learn it. Madame Kelly took these matters into her own hands, and helped my sister every single day, which my family was so appreciative for. Now I’m in 7th grade, but as soon as I was choosing my electives for 6th grade, I knew exactly that I was going to take French. Madame Kelly is such a kind, sweet soul, and she puts so much work into every single presentation, assignment, and honestly everything she does in class. She always makes sure we have fun. Me and many others would be extremely heartbroken if these programs were taken away. Some of us loved either Latin or French so much that, even though we’re so young, we already have a feeling we want to do something with it in college. Seeing all my work that I’ve put in, all the inspiration I’ve gotten, all the fun I’ve had, not being given to other kids to have a chance would be such a shame. And I do not want to see this happen. Whoever is reading this, I really do thank you for your time. I hope you guys make the right decision in the end. Thank you.

Blake Rosenthal (6th Culbreth Middle)

Latin has made an incredible effect on my first year of middle school. When I first entered Migistra Meyers' classroom, I knew I would love Latin. Everything about Latin and the whole program is amazing. It helps with English, Spanish, French, and just keeps continuing. Latin just really helps a lot for so many things! The amount it has helped, and would help me through the years would be phenomenal. I have been only taking Exploratory latin for a couple months, but I just feel like I fit in so much. The way everything is done is something worth not taking away. I sure hope that we have some hope of bringing Latin back to the whole district. Also, this whole situation is going to affect so many people with their life and careers. What about the high schoolers? What about people like me who were planning to take this great class through the years? Also, what about the other classes that are being taken away? So many people's early life is going to be affected because of this. This whole thing is really bad. Next year might be the last year I take Latin. I really wish I never had to write this, but I hope this message might give us a chance to bring back what we all love.

Herman Pontzer (7th Smith Middle)

French class has taught me so much as well as given me an opportunity to be part of this community. I have met new people, made new friends, and the quality of the teaching is absolutely fantastic. These languages also teach people about the world and diversity within it. Language is a tool that helps connect people with others and it should not be taken away from the students, present and future. I’m always looking forward to French as it’s a highlight of my day and I get to interact with my friends, peers, and teacher as we share this amazing art and tool that is language.

Adele Rosenthal (8th grade, Smith Middle School)

I have been taking French since 6th grade, and there has never been a moment where I have regretted or second guessed that decision. I have loved coming into French everyday and getting to learn not just another language, but another culture. French has always been the one constant class of my day where I will be genuinely happy to be there; it has brightened up the ever increasing amount of dark days that I have experienced as a middle schooler. The quality of learning in French has been amazing, during all my time in French: Madame McDade has made French both fun and education, whether she is teaching us new vocab or we are learning about customs and practices of other cultures, she always finds a way to make the class laugh or check in with us to see how we’re doing. I have also built friendships in French that I hope to retain throughout my high school years and hopefully longer. Please continue French and Latin, and don’t fire our favorite teachers!

Kaleb Tessera (9th Grade, East Chapel Hill High School

Latin was a fun class and I would like my little sister to take it. Or french. French is good too.

Karis Lambeth (6th grade, Culbreth middle)                                           I plan to take french in 7th and 8th grade at Culbreth Middle School, because I know the impact taking a language can have on a person's life. A lot of my close friends and classmates love the latin and french programs, and if they take the programs away, it will affect all of the students taking the courses, and I don’t think it will be a good thing for the school community. The language programs are a way for students to make friends and become part of a community. If they take this away, it would limit the learning of all grades. All the amazing staff are extremely talented and have helped to make an impact on the lives of the students, and also the staff.

Samuel Cash (7th Grade, Smith Middle School)

I take Latin at Smith Middle School. I took it last year and will hopefully take it for the next 3 years. Taking away Latin and French is threatening real students, students who need to grow and learn. A language really helps these students, both ones who struggle and those who don’t. While I know that you, the School Board, are really struggling financially, I also know that the answer does not lie in firing talented teachers, taking away fun and educational classes, and depriving many students of learning or even getting into a good college (you need 3-4 years). Please reconsider, for the consequences of these ill-advised actions will affect all of us greatly. Just imagine a Freshman in highschool taking Latin, and once you cancel the beloved program, this poor kid would have to take Spanish 1 as a Sophomore or Junior. Please do not take away two vital programs in our school system, there are so many people you would be hurting.

Porter Johnson (6th Grade, Culbreth Middle School)

Taking Mythology class was a special experience for me because it created a unique community among my classmates. We bonded over ancient stories and shared interests in ways that don't usually happen in other subjects. Taking away Latin class would mean losing an important opportunity for us to grow together while learning about the foundation of many modern languages and stories. Losing our wonderful Latin teacher would hurt our whole school deeply - she made learning exciting and was one of the most inspiring teachers a middle schooler could have. Her passion for teaching has motivated so many students to love learning, and removing this program would take away opportunities that could shape our future education. Don't take Latin and French away!!!

Irina kupriianova (8th grade Culbreth Middle school)

I personally never took Latin as an elective but think that It is an impressive language for someone to know. I had Magistra Meyer for 6th grade after school and she seemed AWESOME! I loved her and what language she teaches. I personally say that no school should exclude Latin or any elective just because of money issues. It's not fair to students that have had her for 3 years and love her. She always brings light into people’s day and is incredibly supportive. I loved her so much and she is always there for every and anyone who might need help, for latin, or any other occasion.

Benjamin Place

I think doing this will cause a lot of chaos. People will end up losing credit for college and cause a lot of despair for switching credit, (Which looks bad for college.) I do not understand why or how this came up, but you also take away teacher’s jobs, which does not sound very good. I am honestly shocked how someone with such power can so carelessly do something like that and keep it a secret for so long, and randomly say it, knowing they are all but helpless.

Annie Whitson (5th grade, Rashkis Elementary, next year rising 6th grader at Culbreth)

 I’m not going to take any of these classes but when I heard that they may be taken away I was super sad. My Bff is hoping to take French and is Obsessed with Paris, France, and was hoping this would be a way for her to learn about the language and the culture of France. When you take away French and Latin you are also taking away some kids' chances of getting into a good college, since a lot of colleges require you to have a second language. One of my Bff’s big sisters loves both of the teacher’s and says that she has made so many friends through these languages. Please don’t take away my friends’ and other kids' chances of getting these experiences. All of the kids that signed this petition care about our learning, our teachers, and our happiness.      

Georgia Hill (7th grade, Guy B. Phillips Middle School)

I’m not taking Latin or French, but my sister is. She also took Mythology last year, but that got cut at the end of the school year. She really enjoys the class and is always telling us about the things they’re doing. I think Latin is such an important language since it’s the root of English, Spanish and French. Our Latin teacher, Dr. Beeby works so hard, driving back and forth between Phillips and Chapel Hill High so Latin can continue being taught at both schools. There are also kids at Ephesus and other schools who have French as a class in elementary school but will not be able to continue their language in middle school if French gets cut. Please don’t put all of this hard work to waste and take away Latin or French.

Jay Ramachandran (8th Grade, Phillips Middle)

I plan to take French in 9th and 10th grade after taking it 7th and 8th. I wouldn’t have this plan if not for the Phillips French teacher, Mr. Murray. If it weren’t for him being super fun and nice, I probably would’ve just dropped it for Spanish. How am I supposed to continue now? I want to continue to study this language because I actually like it. I know that I am not the only one. There are many across the other Elementary, middle, and high schools in my exact situation who feel the exact same way. By cutting these language programs, you kill the opportunities of many who come to school wanting to learn a foreign language to benefit themselves. That’s what school is for, a chance to learn. At least keep the bit of variety we have left in our educational language path, because not everyone can move to a different school or go to school an hour away just to get adequate language education. IT IS SIMPLY NOT FAIR TO THOSE WHO CANNOT.

Lucy Hill (7th Grade, Phillips Middle)

When I first signed up for Latin I last year, it was purely because I forgot to change it in Powerschool before May 1st. Now I would easily pick the class in a heartbeat.

The Latin program here at Phillips has been invaluable to me. I’ve taken 3 classes so far with Dr. Beeby, and loved every one of them. Learning Latin has given me a deeper understanding of both the languages I fully speak, Spanish and English.

Knowing Spanish has made class extra enjoyable, because I recognize things from the language I know better.

Having my mom as a Spanish teacher, I’ve been able to see what an impact the language programs make on student's lives. During my life, I have seen firsthand that being able to speak somebody’s native language with them can bridge strong connections.

This is why I fervently believe that world languages in schools are some of the most important classes held at schools, and that CHCCS shouldn't cut this valuable education.

-Lucy

In the past ten to twenty years we have hired people in our district that get maybe 100,000 dollars annually. We don’t even know what half of these people do for our schools. All of our teachers are important to us, us as individuals, and they don’t make nearly as much as those higher people do. If our district is trying to save money, why are we firing people who make so little money? What difference will it make saving? These teachers don’t make much in the first place, and yet they are so important to us! We have maybe twenty of these people who earn 100,000 dollars a year, long ago we didn’t even have ten! If our district is trying to save money for various reasons, we should be supporting these teachers and schools, forming fundraisers and such. We shouldn’t need twenty of these people earning surely double the amount as our teachers do, for doing what? We don’t need these people. Why are we firing the teachers we love only to make little difference in our school budget?

The Latin program has helped me in all categories, ELA, Social studies, Math, and science. It also is an amazing community of students. She has super creative ways of teaching us that makes us want to learn about the subject. In latin class we don't only learn the latin language we also learn about the history, culture and religion of the romans. It they cut the latin program that would mean over 1000 of Magistras former and current students would be devastated to lose their favorite class, but also their favorite teacher,

Lena Czerwinski, Culbreth,  7th grade

Andre Phillips, Rising 6th grader, Rashkis elementary school to Smith middle. I was going to take latin but I had some changes. I am still going to take languages in 7th grade. Latin is important to people who want to be doctors as well for future authors to learn root words. We want to influence that we don’t want this district to have people who don’t achieve their dreams. We want these amazing people to have their dreams. French and Latin are really important.

Joshua Li French was one of the most fun classes and 7th grade and we had a lot of interactive and enjoyable and it is sad to see it go. As a person who speaks another language, I understand the importance of learning another language. My mom, who encouraged me to learn another language, I know that learning new languages is vital in society, in colleges and not to mention, it’s very fun, much thanks to the GOAT, Mr. Murray.

As a sixth grader I can not take a language as a full year elective. However, I do know that I want to take a language class in seventh grade. It is really important that I take a language, especially Latin, because of my career choices. There are plenty of electives that have people wanting to join them. Languages being one. Yesterday I was called into Student Services along with 4 other people to change our elective choices for Latin. I don’t know how I would manage without a language. They mean so much to me. Please consider our pleas for these electives. Don’t do something that you will then regret later.