Elite Chicago middle school embroiled in Nazi-music controversy for second time
Students change classes at Latin School of Chicago on Oct 8, 2020, in Chicago. TNS
A teacher overheard two students discussing plans to practice a prohibited song, prompting the school to open an internal investigation, according to a letter sent to families.
The same tune had previously been performed by members of the middle school band in November 2024, an incident that deeply upset Jewish families, some of whom said it made them fear for their children’s well-being within what they described as a hostile environment. It remains unclear what disciplinary action, if any, was taken against the students involved.
The song, first published in 1938, does not explicitly reference Nazism. However, it features a marching rhythm commonly associated with military music from World War II, which later became linked to Adolf Hitler’s regime. In a joint statement, Head of School Thomas Hagerman and Interim Middle School Division Director Kathleen Meade emphasized that the institution does not tolerate antisemitism or any form of hate and said the school was taking disciplinary steps while also offering support to affected students.
“Although we are deeply disappointed by this incident, we hope it serves as an important reminder of our shared responsibility to foster inclusion and belonging, and to ensure every member of our community feels safe, valued, and respected,” the statement said.
School officials did not specify whether punishments were issued. The incident comes after a difficult chapter in the school’s recent history: in 2022, parents of a 15-year-old student filed a $100 million lawsuit alleging severe bullying at the school. That lawsuit was dismissed in March 2025.
The Latin School of Chicago counts several prominent figures among its alumni, including Nancy Reagan and William Wrigley Jr. II. The school did not respond to a request for comment.
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