Spelling Bee

Spelling bees provide an opportunity for students to not only practice spelling but expand their vocabulary, improve comprehension, apply learning strategies, and develop self-confidence, communication, and public speaking skills.

In Wisconsin, the road to the Scripps National Spelling Bee begins each fall/winter when students in grades 3-8 compete in classroom, school, and/or district spelling bees. School and district champions then advance to regional competitions hosted by CESAs throughout the state that are affiliated with the Scripps National Spelling Bee. In March, regional champions from across Wisconsin compete in the Badger State Spelling Bee in Madison. The top speller from the state bee qualifies for the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

Any public, private, charter, or homeschool in the CESA #1 region that is enrolled with Scripps can participate!

2024-25 Spelling Bee Schedule
 

School and District Bees (Complete)

Students at public, private, home, and charter schools across Southeastern Wisconsin participate in virtual or in-person spelling bees.

• When:  By January 20, 2025
• Individual schools and districts determine the format, date, time, and location

Regional Spelling Bee (Complete)

School and district champions advance to the CESA #1 Regional Spelling Bee.

• When:  February 17-20, 2025
• Where: Cooperative Educational Service Agency #1 (CESA #1), N25W23131 Paul Road, Pewaukee, WI  53072

New! During the registration process, schools have the option to select which date they want to participate. Eight (8) regional champions will represent CESA #1 and their schools at the state-level competition.

Badger State Spelling Bee (Complete)

The 2025 Badger State Spelling Bee, sponsored by the Wisconsin State Journal, is the final level of competition in our state and determines who will represent Wisconsin at the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

Scripps National Spelling Bee

Since 1925, children across America have participated in classroom, school and regional spelling bees with the hope of making it to the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

• When:  May 27-29, 2025
• Where: Near Washington, DC
• Visit spellingbee.com beginning May 1, 2025, for a full competition schedule.