On Wednesday, Jan. 18, 15 sixth to eighth grade students faced off in a battle of words during the verbal competition of Big Lake Middle School’s annual spelling bee. 

After seven rounds of competition, 6th grader Brooks McAlpine came out on top with the winning word “incited.” 7th Grader Keira Gardner was named runner-up. 

Brooks and Keira both won the right to compete in the regional competition of the Scripps National Spelling Bee circuit, which will take place at Saint Cloud State on Feb. 13.

Great job to all who participated, and special congratulations to our top finishers!