NW New Mexico News

The Central Consolidated School District has announced the winners of its recent Navajo Nation Northern Agency spelling bee competitions. These students will represent the district in the Final Navajo Nation Spelling Bee in Crownpoint, NM.

Ethan Stevenson from Kirtland Middle School emerged as the eighth-grade champion after a challenging competition. Reflecting on his win, Ethan said, "I kept on thinking he [Runner-up] was going to win when he got the championship words, but I guess in the end I won, so that was pretty nice. I wasn't really expecting to win.” He mentioned his preparation involved practicing with his parents at home and expressed mixed feelings about advancing to state-level competition: "It's definitely a bit nerve-wracking... So it's kind of just bit scary going to finals, but I'm happy to have the opportunity to go there though.”

Bennett Weber from Tse Bit Ai Middle School secured victory in the seventh-grade category. Bennett is eager for future challenges: "I'm so glad I get to go to Crownpoint for the [Final] Navajo Nation spelling bee and I hope I do well there". His preparation included extensive studying with support from his teacher and family.

Marie Multine from Newcomb Elementary School triumphed in the fourth-grade division through diligent practice. Marie's strategy involved nightly study sessions and intensive weekend preparations.

Kiera Oliver from Judy Nelson Elementary School won in the sixth grade despite minimal preparation. She described her experience as "pretty intense" and expressed nervous excitement about advancing.

Natalie Dona from Tse Bit Ai Middle School earned third place in her sixth-grade competition, demonstrating commendable effort and skill.

The district congratulates these students on their achievements and wishes them success in upcoming competitions.