The annual New Glarus Spelling Bee brought students, families and teachers together Wednesday evening last week for a showcase of preparation, confidence and academic skill.

The event was held Jan. 7 at 6 p.m. in the high school auditorium and featured 25 students representing grades four through eight.

Sixth-grader Lev Bartlett emerged as this year’s champion after correctly spelling the winning word, chartreuse. Seventh-grader Declan Umhoefer finished as the first runner-up following a strong performance that carried him deep into the final rounds.