The Vaughn Elementary School hosted an in-school spelling bee for grades 4th-8th on January 29, 2024. There have been 20 in-school spelling bees within 25 years. On the 25th of January, the classes had class spelling bees as practice for the main event. I was able to have a conversation with a student from Vaughn Elementary. 5th grader Illyria, who got 3rd place in her class spelling bee against other 5th graders, sat down with me to answer some questions. “I was nervous when we started. I felt okay with 3rd place. I’m not the best speller in my class, but I did my best.”
When asked about her thoughts about making it to the in-school spelling bee? She responded, “I was a bit nervous, thinking I wouldn’t make it. However when I got 3rd place and realized I did make it. It was nerve-wracking. Possibly even scary.” When asked about being eliminated from the competition, “I felt relief. It was scary standing up there with everyone’s eyes on me. I know I didn’t make it to the county spelling bee.”
The in-school spelling bee provides students with an opportunity to help with any stage fright they may feel when standing in front of a crowd. It’s both fun and educational for all ages, a friendly competition.
Vaughn Elementary prides itself on its educational, and fun experiences. Over the years, the spelling bee has been one of the best experiences for students past and present. Keeping this event for future students would make for excellent teamwork and friendships. Spelling bees are the key to these two elements.
