Brighton and Charleston students participate in Vermont State Spelling Bee

NEWPORT — Four local students represented their schools at the Vermont State Spelling Bee last month, competing against 77 other young spellers from across the state.

Brighton Elementary School sent Connor Clarke, grade 4, and Sky Bergh, grade 6, while Charleston Elementary School was represented by August Cappello, grade 3, and Noah Shover, grade 5, at the March 24 competition held at St. Michael’s College in Colchester.

“I’m so incredibly proud of my child for making it to the state spelling bee,” said Becky Clarke, mother of Connor Clarke. “It was an amazing experience to see so many talented students from across Vermont come together and support one another.”

Phoenix Newell of Lyndonville’s Riverside School successfully defended her title, winning the competition for the second consecutive year. She will represent Vermont at the National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.

The Vermont Principals’ Association hosted the event, which featured students ranging in age from 8 to 14 in grades 1 through 8.

All participants received medals recognizing their achievement in reaching the state championship.