Twenty-five middle school students from across the region competed online this weekend for the opportunity to represent our area in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Due to the pandemic, this year's event was completely virtual. Spellers competed through an online platform provided by Scripps. After two rounds of online testing, WHRO crowned a champion and a runner-up.

2021 Champion

Congratulations to Parker Muench from Hampton Roads Academy in Newport News. He emerged as our champion.

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Runner-Up

We'd also like to congratulate runner-up Vikram Goudar from Old Donation School in Virginia Beach.

Congratulations also to everyone who competed. The 25 spellers each won their school spelling bees to advance to the regional competition.

The Bee helps students improve their spelling, increase their vocabulary, learn concepts and develop correct English usage that will help them all their lives. In addition to the academic benefits, students also develop important life skills – like goal setting, time management and public speaking – that will help them as they advance in school and eventually to successful careers.

What's Next For This Year's Winner?

Last year's national event was canceled because of the pandemic. Scripps has not released a schedule yet for the national competition, but their website states they are seeking ways to hold the event: 

"The Bee is exploring a range of scenarios to administer the national competition while following social distancing and group assembly guidelines. The schedule for the 2021 Scripps National Spelling Bee will be announced in February 2021."

Check out Scripps' website for details about the national event.

Related Article:
Take a peak behind the scenes at what it takes to coordinate this annual event.

 

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