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.”