The first Scripps Spelling Bee occurred in 1925, and the first ESD spelling bee took place more than 20 years ago. In an ever-changing world, it’s comforting to know that some traditions withstand the test of time.

Middle school students competed in preliminary rounds by grade level to determine the top two students representing the grade in the final spelling bee held on January 12, 2023, in the Zachary Bell Theater. 

 

Preliminary Grade-level Winners 

Fifth Grade: Anakha A. and Valentina C.

Sixth Grade: Maanav J. and Reese C.

Seventh Grade: Margaux W. and Rawaan K. 

Eighth Grade: Josephine H. and Wendy C. 

 

The competition was stiff, with the final three competitors (Josephine, Maanav, and Valentina) making it to round 13. The last two competitors (Maanav and Valentina) were decided by round 19 and battled an additional four rounds until Maanav secured first place with his successful spelling of the word “Tremendous.” 

 

 

Spelling Bee Top Three

Maanav (First Place)

Valentina (Second Place)

Josephine (Third Place)

 

 

 

As the winner of the ESD spelling bee, Maanav advanced to the Dallas County Private School Bee where he placed sixth out of 30 participants.

It truly was a tremendous spelling bee for all our middle school student participants and the teachers, friends, and family who came out to support them. Well done, Eagles!

And a special thank you to the ESD English Department for coordinating and hosting the event. We are grateful for Ms. Cullins, Ms. Remaud, Ms. Richman, Ms. Rusnak, Ms. Salz, Mr. Smith, and Mr. Snipes!