WASHINGTON, D.C. — It’s a tradition that goes back more than 100 years, the Scripps National Spelling Bee, held later this month in Washington, D.C.
In just a matter of a few months, eighth grader Park Allen, of East Lake Middle School – Academy of Engineering, went from being the best speller at his school to being the best speller in the Tampa Bay region and now competing against more than 200 other students to be the best speller nationwide.
He said becoming a championship-caliber speller just came naturally.
“After lots of reading, I was very much a fan of fantasy books, and I kind of absorbed all the words,” said Allen.
When Park joined the Scripps Spelling Bee Club at East Lake Middle School-Academy of Engineering, he never imagined it could lead to fame.
“The nerves exist but I think the excitement overpowers it,” said Allen. “I’m very glad to see how the National Spelling Bee operates, actually physically there, and be a part of it.”
Park said he is confident, and why not? He’s got a whole school cheering for him back home.
“He has been our top Eagle for the last two years running,” said teacher Richard Kennedy. “I’m super proud of him and I’m so happy that he has this opportunity.”
Park has also been practicing, mastering new words every day.
“It’s a lot about the pressure, being on stage and you don’t know what word you are going to get,” said Allen. “So, my mom and I we have created flash cards and every night we study about 20 and she quizzes me.”
No matter what happens at the competition, Park said he is proud to represent Tampa Bay, and being an exceptional speller is something he can lean on for the rest of his life.
The Scripps National Spelling Bee will begin on May 26 with the preliminary rounds airing on Scripps Sports. The semifinals and finals will air the following two nights, beginning at 8 p.m. ET, on ION.
The 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee will be hosted by ESPN's Mina Kimes.
Tampa Bay 28 is a subsidiary of the E.W. Scripps Company, which runs the Bee on a not-for-profit basis.
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