Arizona home-schooled student excels at Scripps National Spelling Bee
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
Aliyah Alpert, an eighth grader from Alpert Home School, advanced as one of 45 semifinalists out of 246 national competitors, placing 9th (tied) in the 96th Scripps National Spelling Bee in National Harbor, Maryland, according to a press release.
During the 2024 Scripps National Spelling Bee Preliminaries, Aliyah spelled “cire perdue” and “menudo” correctly, along with properly defining “detritus.” In Quarterfinals, she spelled “heresiology” correctly and properly defined “heterodox” to advance. She spelled “atticotomy” correctly in the Semifinals, and properly defined “quixotic” as she completed 8 rounds.
The Arizona Spelling Bee’s runner-up, Isabelle Garcia, 13, an 8th grader from Kyrene School District, finished in 149th place (tied) after spelling “drahthaar” and properly defined “debutante.”
“Watching the competition as a regional coordinator has been an inspiring experience,” stated Emily Ramirez-Lara, AEF director of programs. “The dedication and skill of these young spellers, especially our own Aliyah and Isabelle, truly highlight the incredible talent in Arizona.”
Earlier this year at the Arizona Spelling Bee, hosted by the Arizona Educational Foundation, Aliyah correctly spelled the word “volemic” to win the state bee.
Arizona is one of the largest spelling bee states in terms of participation with over 500,000 students throughout Arizona competing each year. For the two students who placed first and second place in the Arizona Spelling Bee, AEF supports travel for the students and their chaperones to represent Arizona as official champions in the Scripps National Spelling Bee.
“The Arizona Educational Foundation is thrilled to be affiliated with the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Spelling Bees provide academic benefit as well as opportunities for students to develop critical life skills,” stated Kim Graham, AEF CEO. “We are thrilled for Aliyah, Isabelle, and their families.”
