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“Great Courses” Scholar Dr. Louis Markos: April 5

Memphis University School invites you to a presentation in Hyde Chapel at 9:35 a.m. Friday, April 5, featuring The Great Courses contributor, Houston Baptist University professor, and author, Dr. Louis Markos. He will discuss the importance of a liberal arts education and the value of studying the great books of the Western cannon.

College Chat, March 25

Our next Morning Joe College Chat is Monday, March 25, 8-9 a.m. in the Humphreys Hall Upper School Conference Room. Get advice and learn more about the selection process during this friendly, caffeine-fueled conversation with our college counselors. The session is limited to 25 parents, so register HERE. We look forward to seeing you there!

Lacrosse Weekend Schedule

Spring sports are cranking up and those team pages are getting updated with information. Check out the Memphis Lacrosse Weekend Schedule HERE, stored on the lacrosse team page. Go, LAX Owls!

LS Achievement Tests Begin April 1

Lower School students will begin achievement testing during morning class periods in early April. The seventh grade will test during the week of April 1, and the eighth grade, April 8. Boys should be at school and on time; makeup testing must be done during study hall periods, which can be disruptive and cause students to fall behind in classwork. The only preparation needed for achievement testing is a good night’s sleep and a nutritious breakfast.

WordSmithing Owls Earn Awards

Owls competed in the 2019 WordSmith Writing Olympics in late February with four earning honors in their grade-level competitions. Seventh grader Jerry Xiao earned a school trophy and an individual Silver Medal for taking Second Place in the 400-Word Main Event and Third Place in the 80-Word Dash for his grade level.

Honor Roll Resource Board

Keepsake versions of the quarter and semester Honor Rolls are stored on the Honor Roll Resource Board under your login. Check them out under Resources when you are logged in to the website. Go, Honor Roll Owls!

Speaker Offers Tips on Raising Resilient Kids

Dave Verhaagen, Ph.D., author and founding partner of Southeast Psych in Nashville and Charlotte, NC, spoke to parents and faculty February 27 about “Raising Resilient Kids.” Although the internet-fueled, 24-hour news cycle feeds the perception that the world today is more dangerous than in times past, Verhaagen provided evidence that the opposite is true.

Make-Up Work, Absences

Absences due to illness are common this time of year. While students are out, they must remain in contact with teachers by email, check assignments online regularly, and make arrangements to get copies of class notes whenever possible. When they return to school, they should make appointments to speak with their teachers about their work. This Lower School form can be helpful for students organizing make-up work, planning, and communicating with teachers.

Summer Fun Starts Here!

MUS offers a wide variety of academic, athletic, arts, and leadership opportunities for boys entering Grades 1-12. We also offer several co-ed academic camps. Explore and plan your summer fun now!

David Willson '99 Named Basketball Coach

Mr. David A. Willson has been named head basketball coach at Memphis University School. Willson, a 1999 graduate of MUS, has served as head basketball coach at Emory & Henry College in Virginia since 2013. He takes over for Coach Matt Bakke, who is stepping down from coaching after 20 years with MUS basketball and seven years as head coach.

Crump Plans Student Travel Endowment

The man responsible for much of the architectural look of the MUS campus, Met Crump ’60, spoke in chapel February 22 about his life and work. The Crump Firm Architects, which he founded in 1970, is responsible for the design of the Sue H. Hyde Sports and Physical Education Center, Dunavant Upper School, Campus Center, Dunavant-Wellford Tennis Center, Field House, and Stokes Stadium.

CSO Volunteers Fight Hunger

More than 21,000 meals will be sent to hungry people all over the world, thanks to 117 volunteers who filled the Dining Hall Saturday to support Rise Against Hunger, a partner in the Civic Service Organization’s Students vs. Hunger project this year. The mission of Rise Against Hunger is to end hunger “by providing food and life-changing aid to the world’s most vulnerable and creating a global commitment to mobilize the necessary resources.”

Hiltonsmith Portrait Unveiled

John Hiltonsmith, music instructor from 1984 until his passing in 2014, was memorialized with speeches and music as his portrait was unveiled in the Dining Hall February 21. The painting is the 14th in the Alumni Executive Board’s Faculty Portrait Series. Family and friends shed a few tears listening to touching – and amusing – remembrances and to the a cappella choir he founded, Beg To Differ, led by Director of Music Matt Tutor ’91. Tutor described how his former teacher convinced him, fatefully, to stay with music in college, rather than changing his major.

Two Owls Advance as National Merit Finalists

Of the three Semifinalists recognized by the 2018-19 National Merit Scholarship Program, two seniors have advanced as National Merit Finalists: Ethan Hurst and Hudson Miller. Assistant Headmaster Barry Ray congratulated the Finalists during chapel assembly Tuesday, February 19.

Cum Laude Inducts 20 Members

Family and faculty celebrated 20 juniors and seniors during the school’s annual Cum Laude Society induction ceremony February 15, 2019. An organization modeled on Phi Beta Kappa, Cum Laude represents the highest academic honor students in a secondary school can achieve.

National Classical Etymology Exam Medalists

Bubones have risen to the challenge of the National Classical Etymology Exam with 12 students earning medals during the November portion of the competition. The exam tests a student’s ability to handle Latin and Greek derivatives and their usage in the English language.

College Counseling Tea, Feb. 12

Our college counselors host regular College Chats where parents can ask questions about topics related to the college-selection process. Join us for the next session Tuesday, February 12, at 5:30 p.m. in the Upper School Conference Room by registering HERE. We look forward to seeing you!

Honor Your Owl with a Book

Want to recognize your student with a commemorative book sponsorship? Follow these easy steps. The library team will select a book appropriate for your student’s grade level and interests and affix a bookplate commemorating your Owl's milestone. The book will be displayed in the library foyer for a few weeks and made available for students to check out. The honoree will receive a note informing him of this gift given in his honor.

Seven Owls Commit to Colleges Feb. 6

Faculty, family, and friends celebrated the school's first National Letter of Intent signing day of the year with these seven seniors: Walker Crosby will golf for Furman University, JoJo Fogarty will play lacrosse for Sewanee: The University of the South, Maurice Hampton will play baseball and football for Louisiana State University, Dorian Hopkins will play football for The University of Tulsa, Bailey Keel will play football for Washington and Lee University, Ev Nichol will swim for Williams College, and Matthew Rhodes will play football for The University of Memphis. Download photos from the event HERE.

All-West Music Owls

Sixteen students earned chairs in an All-West Tennessee band or orchestra and will perform at the All-West Tennessee Music Convention February 14-16 at the Cannon Center. Participating musicians are:

Cheerleading Tryouts Clinic, March 28

Anyone interested in being an MUS cheerleader in 2019-20 should attend an interest meeting February 27 at 6 p.m. in the Film Room of the Sue Hyde Sports and Physical Education Center. Mandatory cheer clinics will be held March 25-26, 6-8 p.m., and tryouts will be held March 28, 4-6 p.m. Email Football Cheerleading Coach Rebecca Keel or Basketball Cheerleading Coach Tracy Killen if you have any questions.

Owls Soar on AMC-8

The American Mathematics Competition honored AMC-8 mathletes at the end of December, and four Owls achieved notable scores nationally. Seventh grader Bryan Ding and eighth grader Varun Krishnamurthi ranked in the top 1 percent in the nation, and eighth graders Reid Chauhan and Henry Yu ranked in the top 5 percent. Pictured, from left, are Chauhan, Ding, Krishnamurthi, and Yu.

Mathletes Take 3rd at Collierville

Math instructors Mrs. Leigh Packard, Mrs. Nancy Gates, and Ms. Heather Davis took two four-man teams to the 7th Annual Collierville Math Bowl January 26. The A Team, from left, eighth grader Henry Yu, seventh graders Jerry Xiao and Gabe Chen, and sophomore Arjun Puri took third place after battling 19 other teams in the competition. Also pictured are Collierville High School instructor Dr. Matthew Holmes, far right, and the competition reader, Alex Zhang, a CHS sophomore.

LS Tennis Tryouts: Feb. 25-27

Tryouts for the Lower School tennis team will take place February 25-27, 3:30-5 p.m. each day. Contact Coach Jay Horne if you have questions or want to sign up.

Lower School Baseball Tryouts: Feb. 13

Lower School baseball tryouts are tentatively scheduled for February 13 at 5:30 p.m. on Thorn Field. Because Lower School basketball ends February 7, roundballers will be able to try out. If your son would like to play baseball this year, please contact baseball Head Coach John Jarnagin or Mrs. Beth Taylor no later than February 4.

Meal Plan Options

Spring meal plans are available, and can be added throughout the entire month of January.

“But the meal plan is a semester plan, and the semester has already begun,” you say.

You are correct! Mr. David Neuses, director of Sodexo services in our Dining Hall, will credit your son’s U Card accordingly!

Practice ACT Saturday: Jan. 26

Did you miss the practice ACT in September? You have another opportunity to take the same practice exam Saturday morning, January 26. Come to the Wunderlich at 9 a.m. and take the ACT for free. We highly recommend this low-stress opportunity to experience the test for the first time. Register HERE.

College Day for Juniors and Parents: Jan. 11-12

Juniors and parents: Don't forget our College Day events January 11-12. The special session for parents of juniors is Friday, 6-7:30 p.m., in Hyde Chapel at MUS. (Note: This is a change from the time listed on the printed calendar.) Parents will hear from a panel of 10 college admission deans and directors from around the country. They will answer questions and discuss important information and advice about the college process. The required program for all juniors is Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Hutchison. Click HERE for details.

2019-20 Calendar At-a-Glance

The printable 2019-20 academic calendar is now available on the resource boards for at-a-glance planning. As always, you'll find the most detail on the calendar tab available when you're logged in to the school website. This option gives you the opportunity to filter by topic. You'll find all events listed there.

Get Your Dance On!

Now is the time to register for Basketball Homecoming and Lower School dances. Go to the dance registration boards under Resources when you are logged in to the website. The Spring Formal follows April 13, so be sure to mark your calendars!

Basketball Homecoming Dance

January 11, after game until 11 p.m.
Campus Center Dining Hall
An Upper-School-Owls-only dance
A date or guest is required and students must register their guests on the Upper School Dances Resource Board

Alston in Football Coaches Hall of Fame

Head Football Coach and Director of Athletics Bobby Alston was inducted into the Tennessee Football Coaches Association fifth Hall of Fame class December 1 in Cookeville, TN.

Science Students Tour Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Science Department Chair Analice Sowell and Lower School Principal Loyal Murphy took Sowell’s Materials Science class to visit Oak Ridge National Laboratory this week. For the past four years, this annual field trip has provided our science students the opportunity to see firsthand how the best minds in STEM fields are working at world-class facilities - right here in Tennessee - to tackle some of the nation’s most compelling challenges in nuclear energy, advanced materials, national security, and supercomputing.

Inclement Weather Policy

In the event of a school closing or change to school hours because of weather conditions, MUS will use Owls Alerts to notify you via email, phone message, and text. In addition, we will post pertinent information on our website, in our social media, and through local news stations. Coaches will text information to their teams about practices and games.

MUS Social Media Policy

Have you read the MUS Social Media and Publishing Policies on page 69 of the student handbook? The Communications Office must approve any online use of the school's identity or logos (formal or informal, in name or imagery), including social media profiles and handles, online account names and URLs, and any other form of public representation. Most important, student online conduct must be in keeping with the school's ideals, philosophy, and mission. Violation of the social media policy is a disciplinary issue. Contact the Communications Office if you have questions.

Questions about Standardized Testing?

College Counseling has prepared a letter, beneficial to all – but critical for juniors – answering questions about standardized testing. Preparing for ACT or SAT exams can be confusing, so check out this letter on the College Counseling Resource Board for help.

Murphy Confirmed Lower School Principal

Headmaster Pete Sanders announced the appointment of Mr. Loyal Murphy ’86 as the principal of Memphis University School’s Lower School at a faculty meeting November 7. Murphy has been serving as interim principal since July 1.

“After a review of Mr. Murphy’s work over the last four months and feedback from various sources close to the Lower School, it has become evident that he is the right person for the job,” Sanders said. “Creative in his approach to challenges, he has embraced the role with unwavering commitment to the students and with enthusiastic support of the school’s mission.”

In Murphy’s 28-year career at MUS, he has served as a math teacher in both Upper and Lower Schools, soccer coach, Lower School advisor, and assistant principal of the Upper School in charge of discipline.

“He knows MUS deeply, from the perspectives of student, alumnus, teacher, administrator, and parent,” Sanders said. “In his professional development of recent years, he has studied operations at other schools and focused on best practices in the classroom and in administration.”

Murphy earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Rice University, and he began teaching at MUS in 1990. He and his wife, Lisa, have been married 25 years, and their son, Patrick ’16, is a junior at Notre Dame University.

Three Owls Honored at TAIS Biennial Awards

The Tennessee Association of Independent Schools honored three MUS educators during the biennial awards dinner Sunday, November 4, at the Hilton Memphis. The Sawney Webb Award, honoring administrators who have made outstanding contributions to independent-school education, was presented to Headmaster Emeritus Ellis Haguewood and the Hubert Smothers Award, presented to teachers who have evidenced excellence and a deep commitment to the teaching profession, was given to Hyde Library Director Bonnie Barnes and Instructor in Latin Ryan Sellers.

Hurst Named School Heisman Winner

Senior Ethan Hurst, a varsity swimmer, has been named a Wendy’s High School Heisman winner for MUS. Applicants must be athletes in one of the 47 school-sponsored sports recognized by the International Olympic Committee in the Summer and Winter Olympic Games or by the National Federation of State High School Associations. In addition, they must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or greater, and they also must be proven leaders and role models within their school and community.

Sign Up Now for Rhodes Model U.N.

Model U.N. advisor Mrs. Jenny Pratt is collecting participants for the upcoming Rhodes College Model United Nations Conference. No experience is necessary, and much fun is always had. Follow this link to be a part of our school delegation. Contact Mrs. Pratt with any questions. Sign-up deadline is December 1.

Ma Wins First Bee Battle

Last week Mrs. Michelle Crews and Mr. Dax Torrey officiated the first school spelling bee for the year. Approximately 20 students participated, and many competed valiantly, but the final three from this round were eighth grader Kevin Ma, first place; seventh grader Qasim Akbar, second place; and eighth grader Varun Krishnamurthi. Ma took the day by spelling voltaic and munificent. The next round will take place November 14, so stay tuned for updates!

MUS-CBHS Rivalry Cup

The MUS-CBHS football rivalry goes back to 1894, when the Owls beat the Brothers 20-0. Now the regular-season record is tied – 26-26-3. Both teams are hoping to break that tie this Friday, when they meet at Tom Nix Stadium at CBHS. A new trophy, The Rivalry Cup, will also be at stake. The trophy, engraved with the win-loss record, will be presented to the winning team at a school assembly after the game. It bears this inscription: “The Rivalry Cup was established to encourage service and leadership in honor of legendary hall of fame coaches Tom Nix and Jake Rudolph, all of the players, coaches, students, alumni, and fans of MUS and CBHS, and these two great institutions that have competed with dignity and respect since 1894.” Each year the host team will take donations at the game to contribute to a local charity, this year St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Pictured above, MUS seniors Lee Linkous and J.J. Johnson and CBHS juniors Will Fracchia and Jackson Herring show off the new Rivalry Cup.

TMTA Recognizes 7 Owls

Results from last year's Tennessee Mathematics Teachers Association contest have arrived, and seven Owls placed in the Top-10 List for the state: From the Class of 2018 Jackson Moody and Chang Yu; junior Arjun Puri; freshmen Forest Rudd, George Zhang, and Kerry Zhao; and eighth grader Lou Zhou.

Latin Composition Contest Results

Seniors Jack Dabov, Call Ford, Ben Gilliland, Bailey Keel, and William Quinlen recently participated in the 2018 SCRIBO Latin Composition Contest, an international creative-writing contest sponsored by the Ascanius Youth Classics Institute. Keel earned a medal for scoring in the top-20 percent of all students in the competition and the Fabula Optima ribbon for having the highest-scoring composition for all Owls.

To learn more about the contest, go to their website HERE.

Fall Musical "1776" Runs Oct. 20-23

MUS presents 1776, the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, October 20-23 in Hyde Chapel at 7 p.m. Tickets are available online HERE or at the door for $10 each for MUS students and $15 for general admission.

It's the summer of 1776, and the nation is ready to declare independence ... if only our founding fathers can agree to do it! A nation springs to vivid life in this most unconventional of Broadway hits, a witty, insightful, and compelling drama with a striking score and a legendary book. 1776 puts a human face on American history as we see the men behind the icons: proud, frightened, irritable, charming, often petty, and ultimately noble figures, struggling to do the right thing for a fledgling nation.

1776 follows the lives and loves of John Adams of Massachusetts, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania, and Thomas Jefferson of Virginia as they attempt to persuade the Second Continental Congress to break the shackles of the British monarchy by signing the Declaration of Independence.

A rousing, romantic, and riotous musical, 1776 is sure to delight. Welcome to the Revolution!

Meet French Instructor Elizabeth Howorth

Mrs. Elizabeth Pounders Howorth joins the faculty as interim instructor in French. During Mrs. Rebecca Keel’s maternity leave, Howorth will teach Honors Accelerated French I, Honors and Honors Accelerated French III, and AP French IV.

Mrs. Howorth received a bachelor’s degree in French language and literature from the University of Virginia and an MBA from Vanderbilt. She taught French at St. Mary’s from 1997-2002, she served as a Good Morning America consumer trends associate and a media marketing manager for Reuters News, and she was a senior global communications, marketing, and sales advisor for FedEx. Since 2012 she has owned and operated ep communications.

Lt. Terrence Cole ’11 Offers Encouraging Message

Air Force Lt. Terrence Cole ’11 said he did not want to leave Cordova Middle School to come to MUS, but his mother insisted. Now, he says, “it was the best decision of my life.”

A senior systems operator based in Wyoming overseeing intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and crew members, Cole spoke to Lower School students during a recent visit. He said he had a rocky start at MUS – three Fs and an Honor Code violation – but his mother supported the system, and the teachers worked with him to get him where he needed to be.

Owl Afternoon College Visits

We host colleges and universities as they visit our campus and meet one-on-one with our students. Receptions are held in Morgan Foyer of Humphreys Hall after school. The next visits are:

Wednesday, October 31, 2:15 p.m.

Eckerd College
Illinois Wesleyan University
Saint Louis University
St. Lawrence University

Mid-South Chess Day at MUS Oct. 13

Mid-South Chess is holding three tournaments in our Campus Center Saturday, October 13, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tournament A is from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Tournament B is 1-3 p.m., and Tournament C is 3-5 p.m. Registration for each is 30 minutes before start time. Register online HERE. For prices and more information click HERE or call (901) 276-4663.

PSAT Testing Oct. 10

Students in Grades 9-11 will take the PSAT test Wednesday, October 10. They should be well rested and have a good breakfast. The senior class will be in a program with College Counseling during the test period.

Teen Read Week Oct. 9-12

MUS will celebrate Teen Read Week in the Hyde Library the week of October 9-12. Students are encouraged to check out a book and come by the library for cookies and snacks after lunch on Tuesday and Thursday. Lower School students are encouraged to enter the Battle of the Books contest!

Reading widely and deeply is a highly effective way to prepare for college and life, so encourage your son to read!

National Merit Commended Owls

The National Merit Scholarship Program has honored eight Owls with the designation of National Merit Commended Student. Seniors James Blatchford, Call Ford, Kyle Gan, Ben Gilliland, Ethan Lam, Ev Nichol, William Quinlen, and Brandan Roachell are among 34,000 U.S. students honored for their outstanding academic performance on the PSAT.

Owls Named National Merit Semifinalists

Seniors Eddie Feild, Ethan Hurst, and Hudson Miller have been named Semifinalists in the 64th National Merit Scholarship Program. They are among 16,000 U.S. students honored as Semifinalists for their outstanding academic promise, now competing for some 7,500 scholarships worth more than $31 million that will be offered next spring. About 90 percent of the Semifinalists are expected to attain Finalist standing, and about half of those will win Merit Scholar titles and financial awards.

Founders Day at MUS

In celebrating the 125th anniversary of the founding of Memphis University School, we designate September 13 as Founders Day to commemorate the opening day of the original school in 1893 and to honor the two teachers whose vision brought it to life, James White Sheffey Rhea and Edwin Sidney Werts.

Rhea, a graduate of Hampden-Sydney College, and Werts, a graduate of the University of Virginia, were experienced young teachers who had become friends and colleagues as instructors at the Knoxville Classical School. Keen to open a prep school of their own, they were advised by an exceptional educational mentor, President of the University of Tennessee Dr. Charles W. Dabney, to consider Memphis as the location.

An advertisement that appeared May 14, 1893, in the Memphis Appeal-Avalanche announced their school would open in September with the goal being “to prepare boys and young men for Yale, Harvard, Princeton, University of Virginia, and other colleges and universities.”

Spring Formal Save the Date

The 2019 Spring Formal will be held on April 13, 2019, from 8-11 p.m. at The Great Hall and Conference Center in Germantown. All Upper School students are invited to attend with a guest or date. More information will be available later in the school year. If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Judd Peters at judd.peters@musowls.org.

Library Test Prep Help

The library invites students to check out a test prep book for the PSAT, ACT, or SAT. The school also subscribes to two online test prep sites. Students can learn more by visiting the library welcome desk.

Library Birthday Books

The Hyde Library has updated the Birthday Book Program, which allows you to celebrate your son’s special day by adding a book in his honor to the library collection. Here’s how it works: You may donate at any time, and we select a new book in a topic of interest to the honoree and add a bookplate inscribed with the names of the donor(s). The Development Office records the gift and issues a receipt for tax purposes. During your son’s birthday month, we send him a card indicating your gift and display the book in the library foyer, where it can be checked out. You may choose the amount of your gift (the average cost of a hardback book is about $30). For your convenience, we have streamlined this process on our library website. Feel free to share this link with friends or family members who might also like to give a birthday book.

Writing Center and Study/Help Labs

The Upper School Writing Center is open Monday-Wednesday from 8:15 a.m. until classes end each day. The center provides support for all types of writing endeavors, so take advantage of this new resource. Upper School math and science labs are listed HERE. Both Upper School resources are located in the Counseling Center.

The schedule for the Lower School English and Math labs is posted in numerous locations throughout the Lower School and HERE.

Board Chair Recalls Time-Tested Lessons

“What stands the test of time?” To Diversified Trust CEO and MUS Board of Trustees Chair Sam Graham ’80, one answer to this question is easy: his MUS experience.

“A lot about me was formed in these hallways,” Graham said during a chapel presentation August 17.

Course Change Requests Due Aug. 20

The deadline for requesting course schedule changes for first semester is Monday, August 20, at 3:20 p.m. Change request forms are available in the Upper School Office.

Sophomore College Counseling Info Night

College information night for sophomores and their parents is Tuesday, August 21, at 7 p.m. in Hyde Chapel. The College Counseling team is excited about sharing this time with students and their families, and we intend to use Tuesday as a launching point for several elements of the college process. This is a required event, and roll will be taken.

Celebrating Our 125th

Happy Quasquicentennial! This year we mark the 125th anniversary of the school's founding in 1893. We’ve decorated campus to recognize this historic milestone, and we hope you will join us this year as we celebrate our legacy in Memphis and tradition of excellence in education for boys. Go, Owls!

Bookstore Hours

If you missed Book Sale this week, Schaeffer Bookstore will be open Monday, August 13, from noon - 2 p.m. for purchasing books, spirit wear, and supplies. After Monday, the bookstore will begin regular hours:

Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 11:15 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Wednesday and Friday at 8-9:30 a.m.

Sports Passes Go Digital

The days of “Where’s my sports pass?” are gone! They’ve gone digital and mobile! This year you can purchase individual game tickets or an all-sports season pass online, and your ticket/pass will be accessible on your mobile phone. Simply show your phone pass when you get to the gate, and the gate worker will activate your pass for entry. Click here to purchase a sports pass for $80 or individual game tickets at $7 each. The season sports pass provides admission to regular-season home games for all sports. Students are admitted to all regular-season home games with their U Card. TSSAA playoff games are not included.

Naviance Portal has New Link

Beginning August 1 Naviance, a resource used in College Counseling, will have a new interface for students and parents. The login credentials will remain the same, and the link has been updated on our website and the College Counseling Resource Board. Students and families will use the following address going forward: student.naviance.com/mus.

State Representative Daniel Visits Campus

State Assembly Representative Martin Daniel ’75 visited the campus Monday, July 30. Pictured, from left, Assistant Headmaster Barry Ray, Daniel, Headmaster Pete Sanders, and Academic Dean Flip Eikner ’77.

PSAT/SAT Prep Open to Owls and Non-Owls

The College Counseling Office has negotiated with Princeton Review to offer a discounted PSAT/SAT prep course. It is open to MUS Upper School students as well as high school students from other schools. (Note: Many options exist for test preparation, and we do not endorse any company as the best fit for all students.) The course includes 15 hours of instruction and 4 practice tests over the course of two weeks, July 23-August 3, at the cost of $250 per student (compare that to the $900 regular price for this class).

To make this happen, we need to know how many students are interested by July 2. The class is capped at 35 students and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to MUS students. Feel free to share this with other students and families.

Click here for the proposed schedule for the course. If you have any questions, please contact Associate Director of College Counseling Steven Johanson at steven.johanson@musowls.org.

Excited about this opportunity and ready to sign up? Click here to register and learn about how to submit your payments! Registration and payment must be submitted by July 2.

Owls Medal in National Spanish Exams

Spanish students collected hardware for their performance on the 2018 National Spanish Examinations.

Blazer Consignment Collection

Representatives will be at Book Buy Back May 24 and 25 from 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. to accept blazers for consignment. Book Buy Back will be in Owl Room in the Sue H. Hyde Sports and Physical Education Center. The consignment sale will be in August – after the summer growth spurt! Blazers should be in good condition with no rips or tears, must have all buttons, and should be on a hanger. Proceeds from your sold blazers will go toward your 2018-19 school account. Remind your sons to check lost and found for their blazers. Any uncollected items left after school is out will be sold "as-is" by the Parents' Association.

All-Sports Banquet Photos

The Jake Rudolph All-Sports Banquet was April 30 in the Dining Hall. Coaches awarded letters to varsity players and congratulated their teams for the season. In addition, the school presented the top four student-athlete awards. Congratulations to the following recipients:

Lee Murray Spirit Award: Daniel Black
Al Wright Christian Character Award: Charlie Evans
Paul Trowbridge Gillespie Scholar Athlete: Bobby Wade
James R. Haygood III Best All-Around Athlete: Buchanan Dunavant

You may view some of the photos here, and all shots from the event may be purchased here soon.

Faculty Induct Nine Springfield Scholars

Students in the top 10 percent of the eighth-grade class earned the coveted title of Springfield Scholars May 10. The 2017-18 honorees are Simeon Betapudi, Collin Craft, Noah Emmert, Mark Hieatt, Dex Jack, Forest Rudd, Garner Uhlhorn, George Zhang, and Kerry Zhao. During an evening banquet with parents in attendance, teachers selected by each boy offered testimonials, describing their student’s outstanding attributes, plus a few amusing quirks. Springfield Scholars from the Class of 2018, Brad Kerkhof and Rick Reinhard, recalled their own induction as eighth graders and offered words of wisdom regarding Upper School opportunities and challenges ahead. Lower School Principal Clay Smythe ’85 presented each scholar with a commemorative tie, pin, and certificate.

Robert Fudge Wins Distinguished Teaching Award

Headmaster Pete Sanders has recognized Technical Director of Theater Robert Fudge as the 2018 Distinguished Teaching Award recipient.

The Distinguished Teaching Award is given annually to a faculty member who demonstrates excellence both in the classroom and in extracurricular activities. Considered one of the most knowledgeable theater technical directors in the city, Mr. Fudge joined the staff in 2010 and has established a standard of excellence that is manifested every year in the school’s elaborate and beautifully designed stage productions. Known for his quiet professionalism and willingness to go the extra mile, he has also overseen independent study projects, guided students in producing the past three TEDxMemphis events, and expertly managed school and special events held in Hyde Chapel.

Library News

Students are encouraged to use the free test preparation sites offered by MUS and the Tennessee Electronic Library. Go to http://musowls.libguides.com/onlinelearning for all the choices we offer. From 7:45 to 8:15 a.m. each morning of Underclassman Exams, the Hyde Library will serve breakfast food and drinks to students.

Auditions for Fall Musical, May 8-10

Auditions for the fall musical, 1776, will be held in Hyde Chapel May 8-10. Attendance is required at one of these opportunities: Tuesday or Thursday, 6-8 p.m., or Wednesday, 3-5 p.m. In this treatment of a Tony Award-winning classic, casting and approach will be Hamilton-esque. Girls from locals schools are strongly encouraged to audition. Students do not need to prepare songs for auditions, just be ready to sing and read scenes on stage. Don't miss your chance to gain independence! For more information email the director, Mr. Ted Fockler '10 at ted.fockler@musowls.org.

Ray Named Assistant Headmaster

Headmaster Pete Sanders has announced that Barry Ray will assume a new role as assistant headmaster in the fall. Continuing as Upper School principal, Ray will work closely with Sanders on a variety of responsibilities, including school policy, planning, calendars, and day-to-day operations.

Ray, who earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of the South, came to MUS in 1978 as a Lower School social studies teacher and coach. In 1987 he earned his master’s degree in education administration from the University of Memphis. At various times he coached football, wrestling, track, and baseball, and for nearly two decades, he has provided radio color commentary during Owl football games.

National French Exam Honors

In chapel this week Instructor in French Becca Keel recognized students for high achievement on Le Grand Concours, the National French Exam. Four students placed in the top-10 rankings in the state: Leo Campbell, 5th place rank in French I; Will Woodmansee, 10th place in French II; and Ryan Gorman, 8th place, and Liam Kaltenborn, 9th place, in French IV.

Madame Keel also recognized these medalists and honorable mention recipients for their achievements:

Admissions Ambassadors Named

Director of Admissions Peggy Williamson and Assistant Director of Admissions Buck Towner recently announced the 26 sophomores chosen to serve as ambassadors for the coming school year. As official school hosts, they will lead tours of campus for prospective families and help represent MUS at a number of additional events throughout the year.

“We had 42 students apply, so it’s very competitive,” Towner said. “These ambassadors were chosen through an extensive application and interview process and will serve during their junior and senior years.”

The new ambassadors are as follows:

Seniors Honored with Awards

Fourteen seniors received the following special honors recognizing their academic, artistic, extracurricular, and community service achievements during this school year:

Movie Time at MUS

"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." – Ferris Bueller

The CSO is hosting a free movie night Friday, April 27, 7:30-9:45 p.m. in the Campus Center. The feature flick will be "Ferris Bueller's Day Off." Per licensing rules, entrance is free; however, we will sell concessions and collect donations for Books From Birth. The event is open to everyone – so show up, bring friends and family, enjoy a cult classic, and donate wildly.

Students Receive Special Awards

At the annual Special Awards and Honor Societies Induction, eight students received special honors and collegiate book awards in recognition of scholastic achievement, leadership, and community service, and 172 students joined honor societies. Faculty, MUS alumni, and special guests presented the awards. Special honorees were as follows:

Transitioning to College

Sewanee administrator Eric Hartman visited campus last week for a presentation to parents and seniors titled, “Managing What’s NOT on the College Tour.” Hartman, vice-president of risk management and institutional effectiveness at the university, offered valuable information and straight answers about the challenges students can face in college and ways parents can help prepare them.

Delegation Honored at YIG

A number of students received recognition at the Youth in Government Tri-Star Conference held this month in Nashville. Led by co-advisors Jenny Pratt (instructor in French and Spanish) and Davis Smith (instructor in history), 44 boys attended the event. The following honors were awarded:

Juniors Joshua Blackburn and Wood Davis: Outstanding Bill Team
Sophomore Arjun Puri: MUS Delegation Award
Sophomores Jack Fernandez and Vijdan Gill: Supreme Court “Final Case” Team
Freshmen Harmon Colvett and Fawwaz Omer: Outstanding Novice Supreme Court Brief
Freshman Griffin Hood: Outstanding Delegate

Mock Trial Team Reaches State

After five months of hard work and challenging city finals, the Mock Trial Team placed eighth in state competition in Nashville in March. Serving as attorneys for both the plaintiff and defense sides were seniors William Miller and Stan Smythe and sophomore James Smythe. Performing witness roles for both sides were seniors Smith Duncan and Barry Klug and junior Henry Duncan.

“This team made all of us quite proud in four rounds of intense competition,” said team advisor and English Department Chair Elizabeth Crosby.

2018-19 Student Leaders Named

The following Owls were elected to leadership positions for the coming school year: top row, from left, Student Council President - J.J. Johnson; Student Council Vice President - Call Ford; Student Council Secretary-Treasurer - Trey Fussell; Student Council Commissioner of Student Welfare - JoJo Fogarty; bottom row, Honor Council President - Stephen Christenbury; Senior Class President - John Mann; Student Council Commissioner of Student Athletics - Devin Malone; Student Council Commissioner of Special Activities - Reagan Griffin; and Student Council Commissioner of Social Events - Emerson Manley.

National Honor Society Inducts New Members

Current members of the National Honor Society tapped 32 junior and senior inductees in a schoolwide ceremony March 23 highlighting the organization’s emphasis on scholarship, leadership, character, and service. Four seniors spoke on these Honor Society characteristics.

MATHCOUNTS Champs

Coach Meredith McFarlin's team of eighth graders Alex Li, Samuel Lim, George Zhang, Forest Rudd, Mark Hieatt, and Kerry Zhao, and seventh graders Aaron Barawid and Parth Mishra won the regional MATHCOUNTS championship in early February at Southwest Tennessee Community College. The fearsome foursome of Hieatt, Rudd, Zhang, and Zhao then advanced to conquer the state competitions in March! The national championship in Washington, DC, will begin mid-May.

Challenged Literature Takes Center Stage

During a chapel program on banned and frequently challenged books, Chair of the English Department Elizabeth Crosby listed some surprising titles that have fallen into that category at one time or another – Where the Wild Things Are, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Winnie the Pooh, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Odyssey, The Canterbury Tales, The Red Pony, and many other classics.

Science Teachers Partner with Rhodes College

As partners for Rhodes College’s Collaborative Chemistry Communities course this semester, MUS science instructors are working with Rhodes college science majors and providing them the opportunity for experiential learning by giving them teaching time in our classrooms. The Rhodes students are getting invaluable experience in high school science pedagogy and the dynamics of different classroom environments, interacting with our students and drawing from our faculty members’ experience teaching boys.

2018-19 Calendar is Available

Are you making plans for 2018-19? Our Calendar At-a-Glance will help. Always check the Parents Quick Links resource board for helpful documents and information. You will find resource boards under Resources when you log in to the website.

Sowell Talks Science with Parents

Science Department Chair Analice Sowell recently spoke to Parents’ Association Board members about the school’s science program.

“MUS was doing STEM before STEM was cool,” Sowell said, describing the Science Department’s long tradition of preparing students to excel in science, technology, engineering, and math pathways in college and careers. “We don’t buy into a pre-packaged curriculum that does not meet the needs of our students. We design the curriculum for our boys,” she said. “The success of our alumni in college and STEM fields supports our curriculum.”

Upper School Class Registration

Registration for 2018-19 Upper School classes will begin in February. Each student in Grades 8-11 will receive a registration form that he should complete in consultation with a parent and bring back to school with a parent’s signature. Next, each student will meet with a registration counselor to discuss and finalize course requests. Registration should conclude in April.

Campus Speed Limit 15 mph

We know life is crazy, and there never seems to be enough time – but please drive slowly when you are on campus. Speedsters have frightened several groups of walkers and runners lately. Our campus is always jumping, so you must follow the speed limit – and stop at the stop signs – any time you are at MUS.

Thanksgiving Chapel

Instructor in English and Lacrosse Coach Chris Colbeck, sophomore Rob McFadden, and Headmaster Pete Sanders all spoke about gratitude and what they are thankful for in our annual Thanksgiving Chapel assembly. Our a cappella ensemble Beg To Differ performed The Star-Spangled Banner.

Mr. Colbeck shared his appreciation of music, MUS, and Memphis: “My profound thanks to all of you for welcoming me to Memphis – to a school with such a spirited English department, a proud lacrosse tradition, and above all else, a Hammond organ.”

Owls Earn Chairs in All-West Orchestras

Hundreds of musicians from the western region of Tennessee auditioned for chairs in the All-West Tennessee Orchestras Saturday, November 18. Sophomore Daniel Lim and freshman Ryan Peng earned coveted places in the High School Honors String Orchestra, sophomore Jacob Curlin earned a violin alternate chair, and eighth grader Samuel Lim made 10th chair violin in the Middle School Orchestra. All-West Band Auditions will be held in mid-January, leading to the All-West Tennessee Music Clinic and Concerts held at the Cannon Center in February.

Are you in the know or missing out?

There is a lot happening behind the login at musowls.org this year –news items posted by grade and by groups; practices, games, and other schedule notifications; teacher-page course content; campus-wide news, and much more. You control how you receive these communications – so turn on your notifications, or you’ll be missing essential information!

How? Review your notification settings. When you are logged in, select the dropdown button beside your name in the top menu, then click Settings, Notifications. Here you can review your settings for each communication tool. We recommend that you put a checkmark beside each “Type” under the E-mail column. This document will walk you through the entire process.

This process works for everyone who has an MUS login, so check it out today!

Policy on Absences from U Book

If a student is to get the most from his experience at MUS, he must attend class. Unexcused absences are major disciplinary offenses. A student may not participate in athletic practices, games, theater or music performances, or rehearsals if he has been absent during the course of the day. The principal determines any exception to this rule. Lower School adds an additional demerit penalty for any unexcused absence or tardiness. The policies are:

Safe Home Pledge

We encourage parents to sign the Safe Home Pledge. By signing this pledge, parents publicly promise that their sons’ parties and gatherings will be supervised, alcohol-free, drug-free, and tobacco-free, and that they will welcome inquiries from other parents about parties or gatherings. Your name will not appear until we update the list. Parents must sign the pledge every year for their names to appear.

You need help? We’ve got it!

We have a bounty of academic supports here at MUS, and our Counseling Department wanted everyone to know about them. So, we created a poster/brochure that highlights our support labs, study sessions, tutoring programs, NCAA eligibility counseling, and more. Check it out here – and help us spread the word!

Parents: Have You Logged In Yet?

There will be a lot happening behind the login on the MUS website this school year – school resource boards, grade postings (twice each quarter), news, announcements by grade, schedules, and the detailed school calendar. If you haven't logged in to check it out, we wanted to make sure you know the drill. If you have user name or password problems, click here for instructions.

Film Celebrates Ellis Haguewood

Temple Brown '81 created a film celebrating Ellis Haguewood’s service as teacher since 1969 and headmaster since 1995. Mr. Haguewood retires from MUS in June. Watch it here.

Springfield Society Inducts Eleven

Inspiring testimonials, proud parents, and handsome swag marked the 12th annual Springfield Scholars dinner mid-May. The 11 inductees – Warren Barry, Drew Burnett, Hart Gowen, Cooper Grinspun, Akbar Latif, Cullen Lonergan, Fisher Marks, Watts Miller, Fawwaz Omer, Samy Paul, and Edwin Shy – received a commemorative tie, certificate, and pin, as a favorite teacher spoke in each student’s honor.

Knowledge Bowl Co-Champion

Our team is co-champion of the 2017 WREG Knowledge Bowl competition, and seniors Brooks Eikner and Aneesh Ram and juniors Jackson Howell, Chang Yu, and alternate Omkar Hosad each will receive a college scholarship of $6,500.

Phaedrus Contest Honors Seven Owls

Seven Latin students have been recognized in the 2017 Phaedrus Latin Composition Contest. Seniors Brooks Eikner and Henry Trammell earned finalist honors; and seniors John McBride, Rahul Mehra, and Aneesh Ram, and juniors Will Huffman and Chris Kerkhof were named semifinalists.

2017-18 Junior Ambassadors Announced

Director of Admissions Peggy Williamson has announced the 2017-18 junior ambassadors:

14 Nominations for “Man of La Mancha”

Cast and crew of Man of La Mancha have received 14 nominations in the 2017 Orpheum High School Musical Theatre Awards, a participant in the National High School Musical Theatre Awards. Modeled after the Tony Awards, the Orpheum awards ceremony will be held Thursday, May 25, at 7 p.m.

Book Award Honorees

Eight students received special honors and collegiate book awards this month at the annual Special Awards and Honor Society Induction Night. Faculty, alumni, and special guests presented the awards.

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