The Latin School of Chicago is investigating a second incident involving a Nazi-associated marching song, after middle school students were reportedly practicing Erika, a German tune widely linked to Nazi military culture during World War II.
In a letter sent to parents, school administrators confirmed that a teacher overheard students discussing rehearsing the song, prompting an internal review. Erika, first published in 1938, does not contain explicit Nazi lyrics but is closely associated with the German military during the Third Reich and has since become a symbol frequently linked to extremist contexts.
The incident marks the second time the song has surfaced at the elite private school. In November 2024, members of the middle school band were reported to have performed the same tune. The school has not publicly disclosed whether disciplinary action was taken at that time.
Latin School, where tuition exceeds $47,000 per year and which has counted Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker among its parents, issued a statement condemning the incident.
“Latin does not tolerate antisemitism or any other form of hate,” Head of School Thomas Hagerman and Interim Middle School Division Director Kathleen Meade wrote. “In addition to undertaking disciplinary action, Latin has and will continue to offer support to any students affected by this incident.”
They added that the situation should serve as a reminder of the school’s responsibility to ensure that “every member of our community feels safe, valued, and respected.” The school did not clarify whether disciplinary measures have already been implemented.
The latest controversy follows years of scrutiny surrounding the institution’s culture. In 2022, the parents of 15-year-old Nate Bronstein filed a $100 million lawsuit alleging severe bullying that preceded the teen’s death by suicide. That case was dismissed in March 2025.
Latin School of Chicago counts former First Lady Nancy Reagan and businessman William Wrigley Jr. II among its notable alumni.
Reporting originally published by the New York Post.
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