Spelling champions from counties across the state came to the San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) in Stockton to compete in the California State Spelling Bee championships on Saturday, April 27. Competing for the state elementary championship were 47 fourth- through sixth-grade students. There were 44 seventh- through ninth-grade students competing in the junior high championship. All competitors from both divisions had been certified county champion by their home county's superintendent of schools. The winner for each division received a championship trophy. Each division runner-up also received a trophy.
Elementary Division (fourth through sixth grade):
The 2024 California State Elementary Spelling Bee champion is Oliver Halkett, sixth grade student from Los Angeles County. Winning word: pityriasis.
The runner-up is Priya Sekera, sixth grade student from Placer County.
Junior High Division (seventh through ninth grade):
The 2024 California State Junior High Spelling Bee champion is Shradha Rachamreddy, eighth grade student from Santa Clara County. Winning word: zhuzh (or zhoosh).
The runner-up is Dhruv Subramanian, eighth grade student from Contra Costa County.
About the San Joaquin County Office of Education:
The San Joaquin County Office of Education provides educational leadership, resources, and services to support schools throughout the county. With its highly regarded programs, innovative staff, and community partnerships, the SJCOE ensures that every student in San Joaquin County has the opportunity for a quality education. For more information, visit www.sjcoe.org