When studying a foreign language, what comes to mind? Do you only think of what you are taught, or do your thoughts go beyond the textbooks and projects? For junior Skye Fenton and senior Leah Doherty, Latin means more than the four walls of a classroom. These two SHS students lead a group called Latin League. From 5:30 to 7:00 pm on the first Wednesday of each month, Fenton and Doherty utilize the Scituate Public Library’s basement to teach Latin and Roman culture to students in grades three through six.

SHS alumni Jamie Kelleher, Isabel Martin, and Jack Duff began this group in 2009, and later recruited Fenton as a freshman and Doherty as a junior. All five of these current or former SHS students were inducted into the National Junior Classical League Latin Honor Society. This year, freshman Shay Doherty joined Latin League as a promising new student leader.

When asked why she became involved Fenton said, “You want to see Latin survive after so many years of studying it.”

Although they could earn community service hours for their efforts, this group acts solely out of their respect and enthusiasm for Latin. Additionally, there are no parents or teachers present during Latin League; the only adult involved is the library’s Youth Services Assistant, Sue D’Arcangelo. D’Arcangelo, represents the library and provides supplies.

“I love seeing students doing something that is generous and enjoyable for them, while still thinking about others,” said D’Arcangelo.

D’Arcangelo has noticed that the kids are respectful of the high schoolers, and without parents or teachers present, they seem to be more at ease and open to being themselves.

Two veteran Latin League participants, Moira Feeney and Rowan Perry, said their favorite parts of Latin League are the crafts. Feeney, a sixth grader and Perry, a fifth grader, have been attending Latin League for years, back to when Martin, Kelleher, and Duff were leading it.

These sessions do not follow the strict guidelines of a typical classroom. The high schoolers often create fun games for the kids to play while also teaching basic Roman culture, mythology, language, and history. The games can range from card matching with gods and goddesses to an original Latin version of Simon Says, renamed Jupiter Says. Best of all, the high schoolers often bring candy, such as Starbursts, for the kids to enjoy.

“You don’t feel like you are being judged, and you can gauge what you think is best for the class on your own,” said Fenton. Not only is this an opportunity to teach younger kids ancient Roman culture and Latin, it’s also a way for high schoolers to gain valuable leadership and communication skills.

Duff said the goal of Latin League is “to raise interest among younger children and show them the rewards of digging into a deeper culture.”

As seen by the smiles on the kids’ and high school students’ faces, foreign languages can open doors to many people, young and old.