Early graduate culls Latin composition prize

PRIEST RIVER — Finishing high school a year early is just one of Autumn Lawler's claims to fame. The student from Priest River, who has attended the Logos Online School for the past two years, graduates next week. Her other recent accomplishment is placing second in a national Latin composition contest organized by New Saint Andrews College of Moscow.

The Phaedrus Latin Contest is an annual event for students aged 13 through 18. This year, 198 students submitted entries.

"Twenty-four students were recognized as finalists and 104 were named semi-finalists," according to contest results. "Students competed in the contest from 18 states and 29 schools and home schools."

Each entrant submitted an original Aesop's-style fable in Latin, and provided an English translation. Judges considered the accuracy of the Latin in terms of vocabulary and grammar. Writing style and creativity were also important criteria.

"So, my school is a classical Christian school. Every year we enter," said Lawler. "Last year, I was a semi-finalist, and this year I got second place. My fable was entitled "The Bowl and the Flower."

Lawler won a $300 prize for her entry. First place was $500 while third was $200. Winners planning to attend New St. Andrews College were also eligible for scholarships.

"Since I’m graduating one year early, I am not planning on attending college right away. I’m planning on working until I’m 18, and go from there. I’m really interested in mission trips,” Lawler said.

This summer, she will be working at Silverwood after attending her graduation ceremony in Moscow.