School

Okaloosa second grader makes history as youngest competitor in regional spelling bee

Second grader Vanessa Wesbur made history as the youngest competitor in the regional spelling bee, advancing to the fifth round and placing sixth overall.

Jared Williams

A Wright Elementary second grader made her mark at the Envision Credit Union Regional Spelling Bee, tying for sixth place as the youngest competitor in the event.

Vanessa Wesbur, who won Wright Elementary’s school spelling bee earlier this year, advanced to the fifth round of the regional competition held March 8 in Tallahassee.

Wright Elementary maintains its status as the only Okaloosa County School District school participating in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Vanessa’s school championship automatically qualified her for the regional competition, where she faced older students from across the region.

“Our Wright Elementary family is so proud of Vanessa’s great success in this competition,” said Principal Suzanne Boyd. “Her accomplishment is just one example of the dedicated student she is every day. Vanessa’s drive, poise, and commitment to being the best she can be shows in everything she does.”

Vanessa’s parents and her teachers, Angie Willis and Mandy Bennett, attended the competition to support her throughout the event.

Superintendent Marcus Chambers also recognized her achievement: “Vanessa’s performance at the regional spelling bee is extraordinary, especially as a second grader competing against older students. Her dedication, perseverance, and love for learning embody the excellence we strive for in Okaloosa County Schools.”

Join the conversation...Cancel reply

Continue reading 👇

Giving Back, School

Fort Walton Beach Chamber hosts Florida’s first-ever National Civics Bee for middle schoolers

School

Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation receives $100,000 grant for agricultural education program

School

Northwood Elementary’s Dr. Donna Kelley named Florida’s Distinguished Principal

School

Edwins Elementary celebrates new cafetorium, playground with ribbon-cutting

Bill HIPPLE commented on Tugboat Captain Mike Vinik reflects on towing historic SS United States to Alabama

“A Medal of Honor? You must be joking The only honor in this tow was the ship being towed. The Vinik 6 is a rusty POS that’s lucky it lasted...”

Respond

B. Devaux commented on Okaloosa County to unveil new $1.3 million playground at Marler Park

“Can’t wait for it to open. My grandchildren are super excited.”

Cookie Monster from KC commented on THICK Cookie Co. set to open in Downtown Fort Walton Beach

“Looking forward to being there opening day!”

Paula H commented on Old Dillard’s, food court at Santa Rosa Mall to be demolished for redevelopment

“Amen. What the heck does “ pedestrian-friendly” mean. All I can see is walking from one over price apartment building to another.”

Carlise C. McLaughlin commented on Smalls Sliders eyes former Hardee’s location on Beal Parkway in Fort Walton Beach

“This area has the worst food, fast or otherwise, so I'm not surprised we get yet another trashy food option. Way to go FWB, your poor planning and blind eye...”

Mary Kay Flannigan commented on Academy Sports & Outdoors submits plans to open new store in Fort Walton Beach

“What is the name of the construction company doing the build out for Academy?”

Bob Davis commented on Smalls Sliders eyes former Hardee’s location on Beal Parkway in Fort Walton Beach

“To state we don't have a decent variety of restaurants in the area calls into question your knowledge of the area. The Niceville-FWB-Destin area is blessed with a number of...”

A Shirland commented on Tugboat Captain Mike Vinik reflects on towing historic SS United States to Alabama

“Captain Mike Vinik and the crew of Vinik 6 deserve the US Merchant Marine's highest honour: the Distinguished Service Medal for their professionalism and role as the Official Pallbearers for...”

Ann M Foushee commented on Old Dillard’s, food court at Santa Rosa Mall to be demolished for redevelopment

“The rents on these apartments is unaffordable for the residents who live here. Why can't someone build an apartment complex that is reasonably priced? We now have no decent places...”

Ann M. Foushee commented on Smalls Sliders eyes former Hardee’s location on Beal Parkway in Fort Walton Beach

“Well, I had hoped that Hardee's would reopen. I don't care for sliders, at least all that I have tried throughout the years. How many burger joints do we need,...”