Latin students proved that the classical language is alive and well at Memphis University School when they took the National Latin Exam.

All participating Dunavant Upper School students and 86 percent of Hull Lower School students who took the exam received an award.

Junior Jesse Mahautmr of Bartlett was among six students who had a perfect score.

The exam recognizes students in first, second, third, and fourth places within their grade levels.

"The lads of MUS really did themselves and the school proud with their performance on the NLE this year," said Latin instructor Trey Suddarth, also of Bartlett.

The scholars continued their winning streak at the Tennessee Junior Classical League (TJCL) Convention at Rossview High School in Clarksville, Tenn.

TJCL is an all-around Latin tournament for schools across the state. Students who attend must be enrolled in a Latin course and maintain membership in their local chapter of the JCL. Participants compete in three categories: academics, athletics (Olympika) and arts.

With 40 students competing, MUS won first place in the athletic category and second place in the academic contest. In addition, the team that included eighth-grader and Bartlett resident Brandon Parrish won the state title in the novice division of the Certamen competition, a sort of Latin quiz bowl.

Points earned in individual and team events are tallied to determine a school's final standing in the sweepstakes. MUS finished second overall and took home an additional award for outstanding team spirit.