Latin School of Chicago

L AT I N S C H O O L O F C H I C AG O E X T R A O R D I N A R Y A C A D E M I C S F O R A L L Deb Sampey held many roles at Latin during her 37-year tenure: teacher, coach, dean, and for the last 30 years, Middle School Division Director. In those decades, she built countless programs that have transformed the Latin experience for students and families, from spearheading critical work to understand students' strengths through data to launching the new Middle School. Latin's relationship-based learning experience, rooted in a growth mindset, is a philosophy that she's proud to have played a part in cultivating. "We know so much more about students today than we did in the past. We have an astounding number of tools and resources and data at our fingertips. And we have teachers who are coming in with all kinds of ideas and thriving in a collaborative environment." Combine all of these variables with Latin's deep emphasis on both teaching and learning, and it's the perfect equation for continued growth. The Middle School Library was dedicated to Deb in honor of her commitment to educating Middle School students. A plaque was presented to her during the eighth grade graduation, and Head of School Thomas Hagerman and the Middle School Faculty celebrated the following day outside of the Sampey Hub. The inscription reads: Debra Sampey Library "The Sampey Hub" The middle school library is dedicated in honor of Deb Sampey, who joined Latin School of Chicago in 1986 and served as a Physical Education Teacher and then as Middle School Director until her retirement in 2023. For over three decades, she worked tirelessly to ensure every child was seen as an individual with unique talents and challenges. Deb has left an indelible mark on Latin and a strong foundation on which the rewarding work of educating middle school students can continue. D E B S A M P E Y Deb walked through the hallways of the Middle School not long ago and saw so much around her that brought her joy. "I marveled at how engaged these kids were in learning! Our teachers work so hard to plan meaningful learning experiences, and it was heartening to see students being challenged and having fun. That's what school should be, and that's what gives me hope for the future." Deb's family has a running bet on how long she can actually slow down, but she's determined to enjoy her retirement. Though she did cite the "Once a Roman, Always a Roman," program for alumni, saying "I will always want to contribute, connect, and support Latin!" L AT I N S C H O O L O F C H I C AG O 14

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