What Would Ilvermorny Look Like Today?
When it comes to learning about wizarding world schools, we have only just begun to scratch the surface. One of the schools that we do have confirmed information on is Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. This school was created centuries ago in North America on top of Mount Greylock in Massachusetts. J.K. Rowling confirmed Ilvermorny’s origins on Pottermore, but what would Ilvermorny look like in today’s age of diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility? Let’s explore how Ilvermorny would operate as a modern wizarding institution.
Food Court Dining Area
While students at Hogwarts eat buffet offerings in the Great Hall, Ilvermorny’s dining area would be best served as a food court. The space would offer various types of food from different cultures, and students could choose what they would like to eat each day. Let’s not forget a cafe section offering butterbeer lattes, chocolate frogs, and pumpkin pasties!
Focus on Accessibility
Ilvermorny’s dorms, common areas, and overall learning environment in the castle would be made accessible for those with physical, hearing, and visual impairments. Instead of moving staircases being the main mode of transportation around the castle, Ilvermorny would add ramps and elevators. Books would come in braille and large text options, all videos would include clear captions, students would be offered text-to-speech tools and assistive listening devices, and sign language interpreters would attend school-wide events.
Added Classes
Ilvermorny students already take a course load of magical studies, but they would also benefit from non-magical classes in their weekly schedule.
- Ilvermorny has Celtic and Native American roots. In-depth classes in the history and lore of these cultures would reinforce Ilvermorny’s origins.
- For the thespians in the school, acting classes would prepare those longing to be on the stage for Ilvermorny’s fall, winter, and spring productions.
- Love to paint or sketch? Art classes would cover the style and history of famous wizarding artists and allow students to create their own masterpieces.
- Classes covering physical and mental health would teach students how to manage stress – especially when studying for their OWLs – and prioritize wellness and self-love.
Fitness Center
Whether exercising on their own or working on skills in team practice, a fitness center for Ilvermorny students just makes sense. From yoga classes to strengthening equipment to a running track, the space would be open for all students to use. Ilvermorny would also have a long roster of teams to join. In addition to Quidditch matches, we’d love to see a magical tennis tournament or House dance team performances!
New Pet Options
In the wizarding world, pets allowed at Hogwarts include cats, toads, owls, and the occasional rat. However, with Ilvermorny being in North America, other pet options would likely be approved for castle living. This includes popular animal friends living in homes today such as dogs, bunnies, birds, guinea pigs, and fish.
What else do you think would be added to a modern Ilvermorny? Let us know in the comments!