Latin Teacher Chad Timm analyzes the importance of Latin in the English language. Photo Courtesy of junior Lucia McCarthy-Zirion.

  With three whole language pathways offered here at San Luis Obispo High School, it can be difficult to decide which language class to take. Thankfully, Latin teacher Chad Timm is here to provide insight on the wonderful world of Latin Class. 

Expressions: Why is language study important here at SLOHS? 

Timm: All students should take a language in high school for many reasons, but the perhaps the most important is exposure to another culture. Studying another culture’s language, customs, and beliefs creates self-awareness as well as tolerance and acceptance of those different from ourselves.  

Expressions: What is your favorite part about teaching Latin at SLOHS?

Timm: The students. I generally get some of the most motivated students at a school full of highly motivated students, and I enjoy an environment filled with people who share my love of learning.  

Expressions: How do you think the language pathways here at SLOHS differ? 

Timm: Each of the three choices are very different.  Spanish puts students in touch with modern cultures both here and abroad in the many Spanish speaking countries around the world. ASL provides students a unique opportunity to communicate entirely non-verbally with the hearing impaired (and each other!). Latin is unique from both in that is a reading skill centered around the most influential culture in the history of the Western world.   

Expressions: Why should students at SLOHS consider taking Latin?

Timm:  I think any student considering a four-year degree would benefit from studying Latin.  The knowledge a student gets from Latin is foundational: the Roman/Latin influence is simply everywhere (if you know where to look!). This foundational knowledge translates into any specialty or vocation, be it arts and letters or science. For example, no matter what college major a student ends up with, about ninety percent of the terminology and vocabulary of that specialty will come from Latin roots. 

With such a quirky and fun teacher, Latin is a class you should consider. Hooray for Mr. Timm!