Santa Cruz County Spelling Bee Winners Announced

The Santa Cruz County Office of Education (Santa Cruz COE) is pleased to announce the results of the 2026 Santa Cruz County Spelling Bee, which took place Saturday, January 24, at UC Santa Cruz.

In the Elementary Division, Sal Thompson, of Gateway School, took first place, followed by Karis Lee, of Ocean Grove Charter School, in second place. Leo Cave, of Gateway School, secured third place after a tie-breaker that lasted 14 words.

In the Junior Division, Aria Menon, of Pacific Collegiate School, claimed first place. Lovina Wildermuth-Reyes, of San Lorenzo Valley Charter School, earned second place, while Elizabeth Lee, of Ocean Grove Charter School, finished in third.

First- and second-place finishers in both divisions advance to the California State Spelling Championship, which takes place April 25 at the Great Wolf Lodge in Manteca.

“Congratulations to this year’s winners and to all the students who showcased their spelling skills at school competitions and at the countywide Spelling Bee,” said Dr. Faris Sabbah, Santa Cruz County Superintendent of Schools. “This event celebrates the beauty and power of words, and it reflects students’ dedication, preparation, and love of learning. We are proud of every participant and look forward to cheering on our top finishers as they advance to the state championship.”

Hosted by the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, the Spelling Bee is an annual, academic competition with two divisions: elementary (grades 4-6) and junior (grades 7-9). This year marked the 41st Santa Cruz Spelling Bee.

Elementary Spellmaster Mardi Browning has served in this role for 39 of those 41 years. Junior Spellmaster Michael K. McCawley has served as spellmaster for 26 years.

Competitors first participate in school spelling bees, with the top two finishers in each division advancing to the countywide event. Students from schools that did not host a spelling bee are able to apply to participate on an at-large basis, selected by lottery.