Spelling Bee makes a buzzing return to Waterloo Region

The theatre at Kitchener Public Library was buzzing with excitement as the third annual regional spelling bee, returned to Waterloo Region.

The theatre at Kitchener Public Library was buzzing with excitement as the third annual ECU – A Division of WFCU Credit Union Scripps Regional Spelling Bee, returned to Waterloo Region Sunday afternoon.

Spellers from around the region and the Greater Toronto Area competed in their own schools internally, before moving on to represent their school at Sunday’s event. The winner of the event goes on to compete nationally.

“Our winner will now be going on to Washington to the Scripps National Spelling Bee in May,” said host and WFCU Credit Union Manager, Beth Ann Prince.

The event is hosted by ECU - A Division of WFCU Credit Union, a financial institution based in Windsor and Essex County, Ont. The spelling bee is one of the events the credit union holds under their community investment program ‘INSPIRE.’Prince said the event brings joy to both students and their families.

“It really gives an opportunity for these students who [aren’t] necessarily on the football field or the soccer field or the basketball court,” said Prince. “This gives them an opportunity to shine too.”

The winner of this year’s regional spelling bee was grade five student and second-time winner, Arshan Shahriar, who represented Selwyn Elementary School, based in Toronto.

“I like the thrill of being on stage and spelling words,” said Shahriar.

Prior to Sunday’s Bee, spellers received a study list called ‘Words of the Champion,’ which lists hundreds of words for them to review.

Shahriar said he began preparing for the regional spelling bee six months before the event.

“Me and my mom practiced together… we practiced almost constantly,” said Shahriar. “It was really tiring… but my mom kept reminding me that if I keep practicing, I can win this time.”

Prince said teachers can check out the WFCU website to sign their school up for future spelling bees.

“We just want as many students as we can to participate,” said Prince. “It’s just a great program and it gives them such an opportunity to learn confidence and public speaking. It’s just a wonderful opportunity for the kids.”