Latin–a language proclaimed quite dead in the modern era–is being resurrected at a Bronx school. The reason? It helps children understand how words are put together. By using critical-thinking skills and some basic Latin vocabulary, students can understand the definitions of many English words, even if they have never heard them before.

The Bronx Latin School is small, and only three years old. Its teachers are challenged to make their method of teaching successful enough to endure.

Kids seem to take to it. It makes them feel like they have “insider knowledge” and connects them to the fantasy worlds such as Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings, both of which use Latin.

Though this school has yet to prove that teaching Latin offers a significant boost in reading skills and comprehension, the fact that this is happening in a young, innovative public school may signal a rediscovery of classical education. If the process is successful and grows in popularity, perhaps it will help the nation’s struggling school system. It could also mean that, for possibly the first time in American history, Latin and Greek won’t be the exclusive property of a private education.

“The idea we’re offering Latin helps by itself,” says Mr. Dodington, an instructor at Bronx Latin School. “It’s kind of a vote of confidence in the kids.”

It is also a vote of confidence in the future of higher education.