950 Screaming Kids in Togas
This past weekend, my husband and I chaperoned at the annual convention of the
Ohio Junior Classics League in Columbus, Ohio. This convention is open to high School Latin students of all levels from all over Ohio. There is something to be said about a group of teenagers who voluntarily spend an entire weekend taking non-required tests, listening to Latin oratory, and competing with other teams in knowledge of Roman culture, history, literature and language. Not to mention the hours spent in preparation, fabricating scale models of the coliseum, mosaics, Roman Mythology ABC books, skits, games, dolls in Roman dress, paper mache Trojan Horses, photo collages, jewelry, and much more. At final tally there were over 1400 charcoal and pencil drawings submitted.
It’s Cool to be Smart
In addition to Latin, one thing these kids have in common is an appreciation for their own intellectual gifts as well as Roman culture and history. Some are unapologetically nerdy-they’re smart and hardworking, and not afraid to show it. Although there were certainly lots of awkward kids with thick glasses, the majority of the convention attendees were typical teenagers; boys with shaggy hair, low slung pants, and state of the art athletic shoes, girls with streaky hair and spike heels.
Tears for Teachers
During the final general Session, the outgoing OJCL board members spoke briefly about their tenure in office, accomplishments and highlights. Every one of them thanked their mentors and Latin teachers, many tearfully, including the boys. They urged their fellow students to emulate what was good in Ancient Rome, to remember the highest purpose of civilization which is the acquisition of knowledge and service to one’s fellow citizens. That and getting to the next level in
Rome Total War Gold Edition.
