Washington Latin PCS

Rooted in its commitment to the community and grounded in the love of learning, the Washington Latin School is a 5-12 college preparatory school offering a vigorous program of the arts and sciences in an environment that encourages serious scholarship, independence of thought and clarity of expression. Washington Latin's classical curriculum is formed around the trivium of grammar, logic and rhetoric. It is informed by a canon of great texts and significant primary sources that have helped shape Western civilization. Washington Latin aims to furnish every young scholar with a survey of knowledge, sturdy habits of mind, and the ability to read intensively, write clearly, and speak plainly and forcefully. Wary of broad knowledge without high purpose, the School seeks to convey to its students the spirit, discipline and moral compass necessary to make them useful citizens, ready to discharge their duties to conscience, country, and family. While preparing its graduates for college and university, Latin's chief aim is to equip each one for life and to challenge them to serve the world through their character and leadership. To accomplish these ends, the School seeks young women and men of good character who are eager to learn and willing to work. It seeks parents willing to be partners in this task. It seeks instructors who are lifelong learners, called and gifted to teach—and prepared to match precept with example. It seeks the support of any and all who believe in the power of ideas and the infinite promise of youth. The Washington Latin School offers research-based approaches to teaching and learning. Its enriched curriculum is taught by a talented and caring faculty who lead small classes and assure frequent opportunities for interaction and dialogue throughout the school day. A well articulated college preparatory program includes courses in the general areas of: Modern Languages (English, French and Chinese) Science, Mathematics, and Technology In general, we are looking for candidates who: Want to work in a non-selective urban school with a diversity of students Familiarity with and support for our classical mission Like and respect young people from the ages of 10 – 19 Are willing to give of themselves wholly to their job

Washington Latin's philosophy of education is based upon a historical understanding of the democratic mission of America's public schools and the history of public schools in the United States and, can be summarized as follows: Every young person in America has the right to a formal academic education that will prepare him or her for college and for "the real business of living." The preservation of liberal democratic institutions depends on this universal right to a formal academic education. The study of Latin and classical antiquity is an important part of a formal academic education, critical for an understanding of Western civilization and the democratic tradition. The great end of education is not only academic, but also what John Locke termed "the principling of youth." Every subject has its grammar, and its developmentally appropriate pedagogy begins with it. In the Lower School, (grades 5 and 6) direct instruction, drill, memorization of facts and recitation are essential strategies for teaching and learning. In the Upper School (grades 7 to 12), students are led beyond the grammar to the logic and rhetoric of each subject. Here, the Socratic method had been proven to be most effective. The school culture is a key element in a formal academic education. Every classroom should, by its design, dignify the student, facilitate the pedagogy, and, whenever possible, express the unique personality and interests of the teacher. Great schools set high standards and empower parents, teachers, and students to meet them. Great schools succeed by employing proven pedagogies and research-based approaches. Great teachers exemplify what they teach and are held accountable for their performance. Parents must be involved in their children's education, since they bear the chief responsibility for it. The entire community in which a school is located is a classroom. To attend a great school is a privilege, but not a privilege for the privileged.

Washington Latin Public Charter School is an equal opportunity organization and does not discriminate against persons otherwise qualified, wholly or partially, for a discriminatory reason, based upon the actual or perceived: race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, familial status, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, or disability of any individual.