STPS and GSS Triumph at Friday’s Spelling Bee

The 16th Annual Interscholastic Spelling Bee Competition, held on Friday, May 9th, 2025, showcased the spelling prowess of Nevisian students from both primary and secondary schools. The competition, a vibrant display of academic excellence, saw a shift in the reigning champions and the emergence of new spelling prodigies. The primary school division witnessed a dramatic change in leadership, with St. Thomas’ Primary School wresting the championship title from the previous year’s victors, Ivor Walter Primary School. This victory signifies the dedication and hard work of the students and faculty at St. Thomas’ Primary, demonstrating their commitment to academic achievement. The competition also highlighted the strong performance of Joycelyn Liburd Primary and St. James Primary, securing the second and third runner-up positions, respectively. Their participation and commendable performance contributed to the overall success of the event.

The individual awards in the primary school category further underscored the depth of talent among the young spellers. Jadrien Jones of St. James Primary School emerged as the Best Speller, a testament to his exceptional spelling abilities and composure under pressure. Following closely behind were Bella Polius of St. Thomas’ Primary in second place and Reneise Hanley of Maude Cross Preparatory in third. Their accomplishments highlighted the individual brilliance within their respective schools, adding another layer of excitement to the competition. The impressive performances across the board showcased the high level of preparation and the competitive spirit fostered within the Nevisian primary school system.

The secondary school competition witnessed an unprecedented sweep by Gingerland Secondary School, demonstrating their dominance in spelling proficiency. They secured not only the overall first-place position but also claimed all three top spots for the Best Speller title, a remarkable feat of academic achievement. This clean sweep signifies the school’s commitment to fostering a culture of academic excellence and the dedication of its students to mastering the intricacies of the English language. Ajernée Hodge led the charge as the top speller, followed by Aminique Chapman in second place and Kadmiel Christmas in third. Their collective triumph solidified Gingerland Secondary School’s reputation as a powerhouse in spelling competitions.

While Gingerland Secondary School dominated the individual awards, other secondary schools also demonstrated commendable performances. Charlestown Secondary School secured a respectable second-place finish overall, displaying their students’ dedication to spelling excellence. Their achievement highlights the competitive spirit and the high standard of education within the Nevisian secondary school system. Nevis International Secondary School rounded out the top three, claiming the third-place position. Their participation and strong showing contributed to the overall success and vibrancy of the competition, showcasing the talent and dedication present within the student body.

The 16th Annual Interscholastic Spelling Bee Competition underscored the importance of language skills and the commitment of Nevisian schools to academic excellence. The competition not only provided a platform for students to demonstrate their spelling abilities but also fostered healthy competition and camaraderie among the participating schools. The event’s success is a testament to the dedication of the organizers, teachers, and students who worked tirelessly to make it a memorable and enriching experience for all involved. The performances of the students reflected the commitment of the Nevisian education system to nurturing young talent and promoting academic achievement.

The individual and school achievements showcased the power of hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. The competition serves as an inspiration to future generations of spellers, encouraging them to strive for academic success and embrace the power of language. The success of the 16th Annual Interscholastic Spelling Bee Competition serves as a positive reflection on the state of education in Nevis and the commitment of the community to fostering academic growth. The competition represents a valuable investment in the future of the island’s students, empowering them with essential skills and preparing them for future success. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of academic competitions in promoting a culture of learning and celebrating the achievements of young minds.