How does Roxbury Latin School shape young men’s character. What makes this institution unique in American education. Why has Roxbury Latin maintained its prestigious reputation for over 375 years. How does the school balance tradition with modern educational practices.
The Legacy of America’s Oldest Continuous School
Founded in 1645, Roxbury Latin School holds the distinction of being the oldest school in continuous existence in North America. For over 375 years, this prestigious institution has been dedicated to shaping the minds and characters of young men. But what makes Roxbury Latin truly stand out in the landscape of American education?
At its core, Roxbury Latin focuses on more than just academic achievement. The school’s philosophy is encapsulated in its motto: “We care, most of all, what kind of person a boy is.” This approach to education emphasizes character development alongside intellectual growth, creating well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of the modern world.
A Curriculum Designed for Boys’ Success
Roxbury Latin’s program is explicitly tailored to the needs and learning styles of boys. This gender-specific approach allows the school to create an environment where young men can thrive academically, socially, and personally. But how exactly does this manifest in the day-to-day life of students?
- Engaging, hands-on learning experiences
- Emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Opportunities for leadership and character development
- Strong focus on STEM subjects without neglecting the humanities
- Competitive athletics programs
By understanding the unique ways in which boys learn and grow, Roxbury Latin creates an educational experience that is both challenging and nurturing.
Cultural Immersion: Broadening Horizons Beyond the Classroom
One of the most exciting aspects of Roxbury Latin’s curriculum is its commitment to cultural immersion programs. These experiences provide students with invaluable opportunities to expand their worldview and practice language skills in real-world settings. In the summer of 2023, students and faculty embarked on transformative journeys to France, Spain, and Senegal.
These programs offer more than just language practice; they expose students to diverse cultures, histories, and ways of life. How do these experiences shape the perspectives of Roxbury Latin students?
- Increased cultural awareness and sensitivity
- Improved language proficiency through immersive experiences
- Development of global citizenship skills
- Enhanced adaptability and problem-solving in unfamiliar environments
- Creation of lasting memories and international friendships
By participating in these programs, Roxbury Latin students gain a broader understanding of the world and their place in it, preparing them to be effective leaders and communicators in an increasingly globalized society.
The Power of Tradition: Closing Exercises and Graduation
Roxbury Latin’s commitment to tradition is evident in its annual Closing Exercises and graduation ceremony. This intimate event, which marks the culmination of each academic year, brings together seniors, their families, faculty, and trustees in Rousmaniere Hall. The ceremony for the Class of 2023 exemplified the school’s blend of time-honored traditions and forward-looking optimism.
Why are these traditions so important to the Roxbury Latin community?
- They foster a sense of continuity and belonging
- They reinforce the school’s values and mission
- They create lasting memories for graduates and their families
- They strengthen the bond between current students and alumni
- They provide a meaningful rite of passage into adulthood
These ceremonies serve as a powerful reminder of the school’s long history and the responsibilities that come with being a Roxbury Latin graduate.
Record-Breaking Fundraising: A Testament to Community Support
The 2022-2023 academic year saw Roxbury Latin achieve unprecedented success in fundraising, setting a new record for the 14th consecutive year. The Annual Fund raised over $4,831,000, a testament to the strong support and dedication of the school’s community. This financial backing allows Roxbury Latin to continue providing exceptional educational experiences and maintain its facilities.
How does this level of community support benefit Roxbury Latin students?
- Enhanced academic programs and resources
- Improved facilities and technology
- Increased financial aid opportunities
- Support for extracurricular activities and cultural programs
- Ability to attract and retain top-tier faculty
The consistent growth in fundraising demonstrates the enduring value that alumni, parents, and supporters place on a Roxbury Latin education.
The Roxbury Latin Experience: Beyond Academics
While academic excellence is a cornerstone of Roxbury Latin’s reputation, the school offers a wealth of experiences that contribute to students’ holistic development. From athletics to arts, community service to leadership opportunities, Roxbury Latin provides a rich tapestry of experiences that shape well-rounded individuals.
Athletics
Sports play a significant role in the Roxbury Latin experience, fostering teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness. The school offers a wide range of competitive athletic programs, encouraging students to challenge themselves and develop a lifelong appreciation for physical activity.
Arts and Culture
Roxbury Latin recognizes the importance of artistic expression in a well-rounded education. Students have opportunities to explore visual arts, music, theater, and other creative pursuits, enriching their academic experience and fostering creativity and self-expression.
Community Service
In line with its mission to develop character, Roxbury Latin emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community. Students participate in various service projects, learning the value of social responsibility and civic engagement.
Preparing Leaders for the Future
As Roxbury Latin looks to the future, it remains committed to preparing young men to be leaders in a rapidly changing world. The school’s blend of rigorous academics, character development, and diverse experiences equips students with the skills and mindset needed to tackle complex global challenges.
How does Roxbury Latin ensure its students are ready for the future?
- Emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Integration of technology and digital literacy into the curriculum
- Focus on global awareness and cross-cultural communication
- Opportunities for independent research and project-based learning
- Strong college preparatory program with personalized guidance
By continually adapting its approach while staying true to its core values, Roxbury Latin maintains its position as a leader in boys’ education.
The Roxbury Latin Community: A Network for Life
One of the most valuable aspects of a Roxbury Latin education is the lifelong community it provides. The bonds formed during a student’s time at the school often last well beyond graduation, creating a powerful network of alumni who support each other personally and professionally.
How does Roxbury Latin foster this sense of community?
- Regular alumni events and reunions
- Mentorship programs connecting current students with alumni
- Opportunities for alumni to give back through volunteering and fundraising
- Strong online presence and social media engagement
- Celebration of alumni achievements and contributions
This robust alumni network provides invaluable support and opportunities for Roxbury Latin graduates throughout their lives, reinforcing the lasting impact of their educational experience.
As Roxbury Latin continues to evolve and adapt to the changing educational landscape, it remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing young men of character and intellect. The school’s blend of tradition and innovation, coupled with its focus on individual growth and community engagement, ensures that it will continue to play a vital role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow for generations to come.
Home – The Roxbury Latin School
We care, most of all, what kind of person a boy is.
Why Roxbury Latin?
News
Thank You for Another Record-Setting Year In RL Fundraising
Thanks to the generosity and hard work of many, Roxbury Latin has completed another record-setting year in fundraising, exceeding our goals for 2022-2023. Gifts made to the Annual Fund this year totaled more than $4,831,000—setting a new record for the 14th year in a row. We are grateful for and humbled by the benefactions, each […]
Read More
Language and Cultural Immersion in France, Spain, and Senegal For RL Boys This Summer
Mere hours after Roxbury Latin celebrated the year’s Closing Exercises, dozens of students and faculty members departed for Europe and West Africa to partake in RL’s long-standing—and often transformative—cultural immersion programs. Students in French and Spanish courses are testing their language skills and experiencing life, language, and learning in France, Spain, and Senegal.
For some […]Read More
Celebrating Roxbury Latin’s Class of 2023
On June 3, the 378th year of The Roxbury Latin School culminated with Closing Exercises and the graduation of the Class of 2023. The traditional and intimate ceremony—which includes the seniors, their families, the faculty and trustees—took place in Rousmaniere Hall. Immediately after the ceremony, under cloudy skies, the 52 newest alumni of The Roxbury […]
Read More
For some […]View All News
Events
Summer Program
12:00AM
Summer Program
12:00AM
Calendar Committee Meeting
9:00AM
@ 2nd Floor Conference Room
Class Deans Meeting
2:00PM
Summer Program
12:00AM
Orientation of New Faculty and Staff
9:00AM
@ 2nd Floor Conference Room
Leadership Summit
10:00AM
Curriculum Committee Meeting
2:00PM
@ Farnham Room
Summer Program
12:00AM
Faculty Meetings
8:30AM
View All Events
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Headmaster’s Welcome
Founded in 1645, Roxbury Latin is the oldest school in continuous existence in North America. For 377 years, we have offered a program explicitly designed for the boys in our care. Our work has been steady and sure. Of Roxbury Latin’s singular qualities, however, none contributes more powerfully to the life of our school than the background and nature of our boys. Whether you are already familiar with Roxbury Latin or new to our community, I invite you to learn more about us.
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Home – The Roxbury Latin School
We care, most of all, what kind of person a boy is.
Why Roxbury Latin?
News
Thank You for Another Record-Setting Year In RL Fundraising
Thanks to the generosity and hard work of many, Roxbury Latin has completed another record-setting year in fundraising, exceeding our goals for 2022-2023. Gifts made to the Annual Fund this year totaled more than $4,831,000—setting a new record for the 14th year in a row. We are grateful for and humbled by the benefactions, each […]
Read More
Language and Cultural Immersion in France, Spain, and Senegal For RL Boys This Summer
Mere hours after Roxbury Latin celebrated the year’s Closing Exercises, dozens of students and faculty members departed for Europe and West Africa to partake in RL’s long-standing—and often transformative—cultural immersion programs. Students in French and Spanish courses are testing their language skills and experiencing life, language, and learning in France, Spain, and Senegal.
For some […]Read More
Celebrating Roxbury Latin’s Class of 2023
On June 3, the 378th year of The Roxbury Latin School culminated with Closing Exercises and the graduation of the Class of 2023. The traditional and intimate ceremony—which includes the seniors, their families, the faculty and trustees—took place in Rousmaniere Hall. Immediately after the ceremony, under cloudy skies, the 52 newest alumni of The Roxbury […]
Read More
For some […]View All News
Events
Summer Program
12:00AM
Summer Program
12:00AM
Calendar Committee Meeting
9:00AM
@ 2nd Floor Conference Room
Class Deans Meeting
2:00PM
Summer Program
12:00AM
Orientation of New Faculty and Staff
9:00AM
@ 2nd Floor Conference Room
Leadership Summit
10:00AM
Curriculum Committee Meeting
2:00PM
@ Farnham Room
Summer Program
12:00AM
Faculty Meetings
8:30AM
View All Events
