The 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee, a cherished tradition that celebrates academic excellence, has reached its final stage with nine talented young spellers advancing to the finals. Among these finalists are Avishka Dudala from Dallas and Logan Bailey from Houston, representing Texas with pride.
This year’s competition began with 247 participants from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, three U.S. territories, and five other countries, including The Bahamas, Canada, Ghana, Nigeria, and the United Arab Emirates. The event highlights the diverse backgrounds and exceptional skills of young spellers from across the globe.
The finals will be broadcast on Thursday from 8 to 10 p.m. on ION, with additional streaming options available on various Scripps-owned channels such as ION Plus, Bounce, and Grit. This provides an opportunity for families and communities to come together and support these young achievers.
Meet the Finalists
Among the finalists are:
- Aiden Meng, 13, a seventh-grader from Danville, California
- Oliver Halkett, 14, an eighth-grader from Los Angeles
- Shrey Parikh, 14, an eighth-grader from Rancho Cucamonga, California
- Zwe Spacetime, 14, an eighth-grader from Washington, D.C.
- Sarv Dharavane, 12, a sixth-grader from Dunwoody, Georgia
- Ishaan Gupta, 12, a seventh-grader from Jersey City, New Jersey
- Kushi Gottimukkala, 13, a seventh-grader from Charlotte, North Carolina
- Avishka Dudala, 13, an eighth-grader from Dallas
- Logan Bailey, 12, a sixth-grader from Houston
Prizes and Recognition
The champion of the Scripps National Spelling Bee will receive a custom trophy and more than $50,000 in cash and prizes. The first-place winner will be awarded $52,500 in cash, reference works from Encyclopedia Britannica and Merriam-Webster, a custom trophy and commemorative medal, and $1,000 in flight credits from Delta Air Lines. Other finalists will also receive monetary awards, recognizing their hard work and dedication.
This event not only celebrates the academic achievements of young individuals but also fosters a sense of community and support for educational pursuits. As the finals approach, families and communities across the nation eagerly await to see who will emerge as the champion of this prestigious competition.
Original reporting: WQAD (Quad Cities) — read the source article.
