By 1812Blockhouse

The 2025 Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center (ESC) spelling bee season is well underway, showcasing the spelling prowess of young students across Richland, Crawford, and Morrow counties. Two standout champions, Owen Doan and Paxton Zornes, have emerged victorious in their respective county competitions and are now set to compete in the prestigious Tri-County Spelling Bee on February 13 at 6:30 PM.

Richland County Spelling Bee: A Test of Endurance

The Richland County Spelling Bee, held on January 23 saw a field of 41 students from 10 districts vying for the top title. The intense competition lasted more than two hours and stretched over 12 rounds before Owen Doan, an 8th grader from the Mansfield City School District, clinched the championship by correctly spelling the word “disagreeable.”

Doan, who finished as the runner-up in the 2024 Tri-County Bee, is eager to compete again at the next level. The runner-up in Richland County was Coulter S., a 7th grader from Lexington Local School District, who also demonstrated impressive spelling abilities.

Crawford/Morrow County Bee: A Swift Victory

Meanwhile, the Crawford/Morrow County Virtual Spelling Bee took place on January 28 following two weather-related delays. The event brought together 29 students from seven districts, all competing for the coveted champion title.

After just five rounds, Paxton Zornes, a 4th grader from Wynford Local Schools, emerged victorious, securing the championship by spelling “acoustic” correctly. The runner-up was Ashlyn Craig, a 6th grader from Colonel Crawford Local Schools.

The Road to the Tri-County Spelling Bee

With their victories, Owen Doan and Paxton Zornes have both earned a spot in the upcoming Tri-County Spelling Bee, where they will face off against the top spellers from Richland, Crawford, and Morrow counties. The competition, hosted by Mid-Ohio ESC, will determine who moves on to the prestigious Scripps National Spelling Bee.

Mid-Ohio ESC Spelling Bee Season in Full Swing

The Mid-Ohio ESC Spelling Bee series includes:

  • The Crawford/Morrow County Virtual Spelling Bee
  • The Richland County Spelling Bee
  • The Tri-County Spelling Bee

Spelling Bee Coordinator Colleen Haynes expressed her appreciation for the participating districts and their ongoing commitment to supporting students.

“Congratulations to all the spelling bee participants. We hope the experience of a spelling bee encourages a love for learning and the pursuit of lifelong knowledge!” – Colleen Haynes, Mid-Ohio ESC

As Owen Doan and Paxton Zornes prepare for the Tri-County Bee, their dedication to spelling and academic excellence sets an inspiring example for their peers. Spectators are welcome to attend the February 13 event at 6:30 PM to witness the region’s top young spellers in action.

Source, Photo: MOESC

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