Local student falls short of finals, ties for 12th in Scripps National Spelling Bee

Michael Cuviello, Amarillo Globe-News
·1 min read

Jayden Zheng of Bonham Middle School, who won the regional spelling bee, finished the Scripps National Spelling Bee competition tied with eight other contestants for 12th place out of 231 students in National Harbor, Maryland.

More: Bonham middle schooler Zheng wins regional spelling bee, follows in brother's footsteps

Jayden Zheng of Bonham Middle School participates in the 2023 Scripps National Spelling Bee in National Harbor, Maryland.
Jayden Zheng of Bonham Middle School participates in the 2023 Scripps National Spelling Bee in National Harbor, Maryland.

Zheng made it until the eighth round, where the French word “pensée“ eliminated him from the chance to move on to the finals with 11 other participants. His mom Barbara Wang said French words are still difficult for her son to spell.

“He did his best, and we are very proud of him,” Wang said. “We are thankful for all the support from the Education Credit Union for the sponsorship and to Bonham Middle School and its teachers.”

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Regional spelling bee champion Zheng finishes 12th at nationals