Spelling Bee
The Spelling Bee is geared towards students in grades five through eight. Each school district may once again send one student for every 1-1000 K-12 student population to the regional bee. The fee for each Region Spelling Bee participant is $110, payable to Lakes Country Service Cooperative. This fee is separate from the fee which is required by Scripps. If funding is an issue, we encourage you to seek funding from your local PTO or other group that supports your academic endeavors. Your word list and official study booklet as well as other helpful materials may be accessed through the Scripps website: www.spellingbee.com.
The Region IV Spelling Bee is scheduled for February 17, 2026.
PJ Vanderheiden Wins Region IV Spelling Bee, Advances to National Stage
It was a day filled with anticipation, determination, and remarkable spelling talent as 24 district spelling bee champions gathered at Lakes Country Service Cooperative for the annual Regional Spelling Bee, sponsored by the Minnesota Service Cooperatives.
This year’s competition was especially impressive, with nine district winners returning to the stage once again, a true testament to their dedication and perseverance.
After several intense rounds, PJ Vanderheiden from Alexandria emerged as the 2026 Region IV Champion. With calm focus and confidence under pressure, PJ correctly spelled the championship word, stagflation, to secure the title and earn the honor of representing Region IV at the national level.
When asked how he prepared for the regional bee, PJ shared that he relied heavily on the Word Club app and consistent daily practice. “I used the Word Club app and practiced about 700 words every day,” PJ said. As he looks ahead to the national competition, he plans to ramp up his studying even more in preparation for Bee Week.
The competition remained strong throughout the day. Linnea Malek from Morris earned First Runner-Up honors, and Haven Hovland from Barnesville claimed the Second Runner-Up position. Each finalist demonstrated exceptional preparation, composure, and resilience.
Spelling Bee Coordinator Monica Thompson praised the students for their courage and commitment. “All the spellers were incredible,” Thompson shared. “It takes courage, poise, and skill to stand in front of a room full of people and spell challenging words under pressure. Every student here should be incredibly proud.”
Events like the Region IV Spelling Bee are made possible through the support and dedication of many individuals. Special thanks to pronouncer Cris Oehler and officials Dee Johnson, Troy Haugen, Jolene King, Mary Phillipe, and Phyllis Rossow for their time, attention to detail, and commitment to making the day run smoothly. Their efforts ensure a positive and memorable experience for every student who takes the stage. Also, thank you to all the sponsors: Minnesota Service Cooperatives, Merriam-Webster, Lathrop GPM, Medica, Wex and ORB.
After 15 years at the Gaylord National Resort, the national bee is returning to Washington, D.C. This year, the Scripps National Spelling Bee will take place at Constitution Hall during Bee Week, May 24–29, 2026.
Congratulations to all 24 of this year’s outstanding district champions. We wish PJ the very best as he represents Region IV at the National Spelling Bee in May!
