Elite Chicago middle school embroiled in Nazi-music controversy for second time
Share and Follow

The prestigious Latin School of Chicago is once again confronting an antisemitism issue, this time involving middle school students who were reportedly learning a marching song linked to the Nazis, according to information obtained by The Post.

Students at this exclusive Chicago private school—attended by the children of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, with middle school tuition exceeding $47,000—had been practicing “Erika,” a German marching tune that became associated with the Third Reich during World War II, as revealed in a letter sent to parents by the school.


Students in masks walking past the Latin School of Chicago building.
Students change classes at Latin School of Chicago on Oct 8, 2020, in Chicago.  TNS

The situation came to light when a teacher overheard two students discussing their practice of the controversial song, prompting the school to initiate an internal investigation, according to the letter.

This is not the first time the song has caused a stir at the school. In November 2024, members of the middle school band performed “Erika,” causing distress among Jewish families who already felt vulnerable within the school’s reportedly challenging environment. The consequences for those involved in that incident remain unclear.

While the song’s lyrics, first published in 1938, do not directly reference Nazism, its military marching rhythm was emblematic of the period and its use by Nazi forces during the war.

“Latin does not tolerate antisemitism or any other form of hate. In addition to undertaking disciplinary action, Latin has and will continue to offer support to any students affected by this incident,” the letter from Head of School Thomas Hagerman and Interim MS Division Director Kathleen Meade read.

“Although we are deeply disappointed by this incident, we hope that it serves as an important reminder of our shared responsibility to continue nurturing our School’s strong sense of inclusion and belonging, and to ensure that every member of our community feels safe, valued, and respected,” the statement read.

Whether punishment was doled out was not immediately clear.


Crowds giving the Nazi salute as soldiers march past in Nuremberg, 1937.
Nazis marching at Nuremberg in 1937. SSPL via Getty Images

Back in 2022, the school faced a $100 million lawsuit from the parents of Nate Bronstein, 15, who was allegedly bullied at the school so severely that he committed suicide. The lawsuit was tossed out in March 2025.

Latin School of Chicago boasts some notable alumni, including Nancy Reagan and chewing gum heir William Wrigley Jr. II.

The school did not respond to The Post’s request for comment.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Deputy saves mail driver from burning truck in Washington: bodycam

Heroic Deputy Rescues Mail Driver from Fiery Truck in Washington: Caught on Bodycam

A deputy acted heroically, rescuing a mail truck driver from a perilous…
The stereotypes Dubai expats find so offensive - but they're all true

Debunking Dubai: The Surprising Truth Behind Stereotypes That Expats Find Offensive

For many travelers today, Dubai stands out as a top-tier destination when…
Coco Gauff wins in three sets to reach Australian Open quarterfinal

Coco Gauff Advances to Australian Open Quarterfinals After Thrilling Three-Set Victory

MELBOURNE, Australia — In a gripping showdown at the Australian Open, Coco…
Illegal immigrant accused in DUI crash that killed college soccer player, girlfriend: report

Tragic Loss of College Soccer Athlete and Partner Sparks Statewide Legislative Outrage Over Undocumented Immigrant’s History

Outrage is mounting among legislators as the community grieves the tragic loss…
Is it illegal to drive with snow on your car? It depends on where you live

Driving with Snow on Your Car: Legal or Not? Find Out What Your State Says

While state laws differ, motorists can still incur fines or receive citations…
Baltimore bloodshed drops as law-and-order push targets repeat criminals

Baltimore’s Crime Reduction Efforts Lead to Decrease in Repeat Offender Violence

Baltimore experienced a significant reduction in homicides in 2025, building on a…
Macron says children's brains are 'not for sale,' urges fast-track to ban social media for kids under 15

Macron Urges Swift Action to Ban Social Media for Kids Under 15, Declares Young Minds ‘Not for Sale

France is on the verge of implementing a ban on social media…
Emory fires Iranian official's daughter after campus protests over controversial hiring decision

Emory University Sparks Outrage: Iranian Official’s Daughter Dismissed Amidst Hiring Controversy

The daughter of a prominent Iranian official, noted for her open criticism…