Fifth grade Spelling Bee Finalists: Liam N. (First), Kaitlyn S. (Second) and Bobby R. (Third). Mrs. Moran, Mrs. Doornbos, and Mrs. Kmiec (also pictured)>
In a time when spelling is often substituted by spell check or even automatic corrections, people who can spell words correctly on their own seem to stand out more than in previous generations. The Hannum Spelling Bee is a tradition that goes back to (at least) Mrs. Doornbos' time as a student here when she herself participated in the Bee. So for several decades, the Spelling Bee has continued for fifth grade students who are chosen by their teachers to participate. Mrs. Kmeic and Mrs. Moran are currently sponsoring the event to help students prepare over several weeks.
Mrs. Kmiec explains why she loves this tradition: "It helps to expand your vocabulary and develop a deeper understanding of pattern recognition, prefixes, and suffixes. This helps not just in spelling, but also in reading comprehension and writing. It also helps with speaking skills."
Mrs. Moran says, "I think it is important because not only does it build up a student's academic and language skills, but also their confidence in trying something challenging and public speaking skills. The students enjoy having that friendly competition, and push themselves to use their memory, foundational spelling skills, and overall focus."
Seventeen students participated this year. The Bee starts with a practice round, so students can introduce themselves and get some of the jitters out. Then it really begins. As someone who is the "caller" of the event, I'm always surprised how students overthink words that we would think are "easier." After calling for over a decade, I realize that students tend to assume that every word is tricky. Some students missed words such as: lung or atom.
In the end, it comes down to the last two contestants. The winner needs to spell two words correctly in a row. Kaitlyn S. and Liam N. battled it out for first place. Both students had two opportunities at winning the Bee, but Liam pulled off first place. The three finalists were: Bobby R., (third), Kaitlyn (second) and Liam (first).
Fourth grade students were spectators at the event as they will have the opportunity to be chosen next year. "Spelling should not become a forgotten skill," stated Mrs. Tomanich (Literacy Support Teacher and caller for the event). "Students need to be able to show their literacy through recognizing spelling patterns and using their own brains rather than computers." Let's hope this tradition continues for many years to come!