Our History:
25 years of Impact
We were originally founded as the Augusta County Institute for Classical Studies.
Since 2000, we have served hundreds of students and teachers around the world. We have advanced the knowledge of and inspiring lifelong learning about Latin, Greek, and the ancient Greco-Roman world
Our History
Here is a selection of some of the programs and events over the years that have made an impact in the Classics community.
LatinSummer
2000 - 2014
LatinSummer was an exciting two-week summer enrichment program that provided students a unique chance to learn about Latin and the classical world. Students explored Latin, mythology, and Roman culture, and will found timeless connections between the ancient world and their own. These events were held in Birmingham, Boston, Northern Virginia, Rome, and beyond!
Roman Explorers
2000 - 2017
Thanks to generous donations, our Roman Explorers workshops were often offered free of charge to schools in rural and urban areas, as well as to schools in select other areas of the country. In our workshops, elementary school students delved into the Latin language, Roman culture, ancient mythology, and English word study based on Latin roots. Experienced and award-winning faculty who have spearheaded the drive to incorporate Classics in the elementary grades served as the instructors, working with a tried-and-true curriculum.
These workshops, either half-day or full-day, helped to strengthen academic knowledge and better prepare students to meet standards and to succeed on assessments.
eTogaTrek
2014 - 2015
During the 2014-2015 school year, we invited students and teachers to join us on a trip back in time to Ancient Rome! In a series of five lessons, students followed online videos with our instructors for an interactive and hands-on learning experience. Lessons included Children & the Family, Clothing, and more!
SCRIBO
2011 - 2018
For eight years, the SCRIBO National Composition Contest inspired students from kindergarten through college to write creatively in Latin through original stories, poems, and comics. Judged by expert educators, the contest recognized outstanding work and supported classroom learning. In 2018, the SCRIBO contest was handed over to Excellence Through Classics who now continues to offer it.
Grants for Teachers
Since 2006
Ascanius has long supported teachers, students, and schools through a range of grants designed to expand access to Latin and the Classical world especially at the elementary and middle school levels. These grants have helped educators launch new programs, strengthen existing ones, and bring creative classroom projects to life.
Whether funding professional development, classroom materials, or innovative teaching ideas, Ascanius grants are meant to remove barriers and make Classics education more accessible. From small, impactful classroom initiatives to larger, long-term efforts, each grant reflects our commitment to equipping educators and inspiring the next generation of Classical learners.
Roman Explorations
2013 and 2016
In July 2016, Ascanius: The Youth Classics Institute hosted Roman Explorations, a professional development workshop in Rome led by Ms. Skye Shirley. The program introduced elementary and middle school teachers to Latin and ancient Roman culture through on-site learning and guided exploration of historic sites. Participants gained practical classroom materials and experience that helped them bring Latin into their teaching. The workshop expanded access to classical studies and inspired more educators to engage younger students with the ancient world.