PHOENIX (AZFamily) — Three Arizona eighth graders are headed to a national spelling bee to test their skills this week.
The 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee, now in its 101st year, begins Tuesday with preliminary rounds. Quarterfinals and semifinals are set for Wednesday, followed by the finals on Thursday.
Smriti Parajuli of Centennial Middle School in Phoenix, 14 years old
Parajuli is sponsored by the Arizona Educational Foundation and is making her first and final appearance at the national bee. According to her profile, she began competing after winning her classroom spelling bee in fifth grade. She is also active in student council and enjoys reading, traveling and spending time with family and friends…