The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) is pleased to announce and congratulate the outstanding winners of the 51st Annual Territorial Spelling Bee. This esteemed event, showcasing the exceptional linguistic talents of our students, saw an impressive display of intellect and dedication from participants across the Territory.
The VIDE extends heartfelt congratulations to the top three winners who demonstrated remarkable skill, determination, and resilience throughout the competition. First Place: Joseph Greaux, Eulalie Rivera Elementary School. Second Place: Rayan Felix, Free Will Baptist School. Third Place: Kaiden Lettsome-Dowe, Antilles School.
“Their achievements reflect not only their individual commitment to excellence but also the unwavering support and guidance provided by their families, teachers, and mentors. We commend them for their hard work and dedication, and we are immensely proud to have such bright young minds representing the Virgin Islands,” said Commissioner Wells-Hedrington.
The VIDE would like to express sincere gratitude to all individuals and organizations involved in making this event a resounding success. Your contributions and support have played a vital role in nurturing the talents of our students and fostering a culture of academic excellence in our community. The VIDE is especially grateful for the longstanding sponsorship of the Virgin Islands Daily News. Special thanks to the State Office of Curriculum & Instruction and Ms. Julie Deterville, Program Assistant of Instructional Development who serves as the Territorial Spelling Bee Coordinator.
Each Spelling Bee participant received: a medallion, certificate of participation, backpack bundle with blanket and water bottle, bag and book bundle, dictionary package bundle, Spelling Bee snack and goodie bag, and a VI Territorial Spelling Bee t-shirt.
The top three spellers received: a Spelling Bee trophy, gift certificates to the following: Crucian Gold, Undercover Books, The Market, Plaza Extra East, The VI Cat- Snorkel and Sail Adventure, and a Family Day Pass to Coral World Ocean Park.
The 2024 Territorial Bee Champion will receive all items listed above including: a free one-year subscription to Britannica Online Premium, a one-year subscription to the Scripps National Spelling Bee's official dictionary - the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Online Dictionary, a two night stay at the Caravelle Hotel, two gift certificates from Seaborne Airlines, a laptop computer from Ten Sleepless Knights, and a gift certificate from Carambola Zip Line.
The winner will also be awarded a six night stay for two at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland, during the week of Memorial Day 2024, to represent the USVI in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. This prize is compliments of the Virgin Islands Daily News.
Gift sponsors include: Virgin Islands Department of Education, Cane Bay Cares, Scholastic Incorporated, G-Max Gas Station and Supermarket, Pearson Education, R&F Carpentry and Home Improvement, LLC, Carambola Zip Line, Caravelle Hotel, The VI Cat, Undercover Books and Gifts, Seaborne Airlines, Crucian Gold, Ten Sleepless Knights, Seaside Market, The Market, Plaza Extra East, Cost-U-Less, and Reliable Rentals.
“As we celebrate the accomplishments of this year's winners, we also encourage all students across the Territory to consider participating in next year's Territorial Spelling Bee. It is an opportunity not only to showcase your ability, but also to challenge yourself, learn, and grow,” added Commissioner Wells-Hedrington.
Congratulations to all student participants of the 51st Annual Territorial Spelling Bee!
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Click the link for more pictures: https://photos.app.goo.gl/JrCoDrt3UAKuACHf9
