This semester, Wheeler’s JCL found a renaissance. Soon after Nationals, members and
officers alike busied themselves with various endeavors to reintroduce the spirit of JCL to new members. From constant opportunities of involvement, innovation, and inspiration, every member had the opportunity to become artistically engaged, meet other JCL enthusiasts, and, most importantly, find a way adopt Latin outside the classroom.
Our chapter has increasingly grown more involved with the Junior Classical League.
With over 50 total members between eighth grade and high school, our chapter has not
experienced better turn-out to our monthly meetings. Our informational meeting welcomed dozens of members while we consumed the archetypal chips and salsa, the food insignia of Wheeler JCL. Our annual and ever-popular Pumpkin Carving Contest held in October brought more than 30 members to embrace the classical culture in an otherwise festive occasion. In addition, the start of Roman Reads, an activity where Wheeler JCL members engage with elementary students and read mythologies, established a new manner of outreach so that we can share our love for the classics.
In addition to the various events prepared throughout the year, a new division was added to Wheeler’s growing chapter: Certamen. For never having a Certamen team in the history of Wheeler JCL, our first tournament in September was a spectacular start to the new season. Our intermediate team remained undefeated throughout all four rounds and placed first at the Walton kick-off; they also had an excellent second tournament, finishing third at Fall Forum.
With a new change of direction, so many members have found the inspiration to express our love for the classics. Whether it be taking a Medusa Mythology Exam, trying Certamen for the first time, or simply wearing a Latin T-shirt every week, the underlying enthusiasm for the classics can easily be detected within our JCL, and active participation has grown so overwhelmingly that the future of Wheeler JCL will inevitably be optimistic.
Wheeler
Ann-Marie Abunyewa
Wheeler High School JCL officers at the potluck
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