Congratulations to Jesus Lara
June 2, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chewning Middle School student makes impressive showing
at Scripps National Spelling Bee against the nation’s best spellers
Durham, NC – Some may claim spelling is a lost art, a non-factor in today’s high-tech world. Try telling that to Chewning Middle School student Jesus Ayala Lara. He recently became the first Durham Public Schools student to compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Jesus advanced through the third round before being eliminated from the competition. He correctly spelled “quagmiry” and “splenetic” along the way. Forty one spellers made it to the semi-finals.
Jesus began the process by winning his school’s spelling bee in December. Though the competition was tough and included 25 students, Jesus won in the 16th round by correctly spelling “virulently”.
He advanced to the regional bee and won that competition in March. As champion of the region sponsored by the Duke University Office of Durham and Regional Affairs, Jesus advanced to the national competition at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. He was among 275 of the nation’s best spellers, ranging from 8-15 years of age.
“All of Chewning Middle is extremely proud of Jesus,” said Jim Key, Principal of Chewning Middle School. “He is a true role model for me, our students and the entire Chewning Community.”
The national spelling bee began in 1925 with Scripps taking over sponsorship in 1941. It is the nation’s largest and longest-running educational promotion. The goal is to help students improve their spelling, increase their vocabularies, learn concepts, and develop correct English usage that will help them all their lives.
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Tahira Stalberte
Chief Communications Officer
P. 919.560.9112
C. 919.358.8876
tahira.stalberte@dpsnc.net
Jeff Nash
Communications Coordinator
P. 919.560.2602
C. 919.412.7947
jeff.nash@dpsnc.net
