GCSD proudly congratulates CJH student Luke Hand on winning 1st Place at the Orange County Spelling Bee Competition. In the photo on the right, Luke proudly holds the plaque he received after winning the county bee.
Pictured alongside Luke are his current ELA teacher, Amie Abate, and club advisor, Ms. Jordon, who organized a send-off celebration that included a special gift bag for him. Ms. Abate also coordinated with the 8th grade students and teachers to create a personalized sign showing their support and encouragement.
“Luke qualified for the spelling bee last year in 7th grade and lost at OUBOCES. Ever since, he made it his mission to make it in 8th grade. He studied for it and after competing with our 7th and 8th graders, he earned a spot OUBOCES again. After an intense tie breaker, he made it and qualified for Washington D.C. He worked so hard in those months in between, studying every day. He had books and lists and he made it his mission to do his very best. On top of the studying, Luke had a FULL course load of work in his normal 8th grade studies. He is in two accelerated classes with Regents exams in June, and participated in Track and Field every day after school. Luke’s commitment to the spelling bee, as well as his academic achievements are a true testament to his dedication to learning. We are SO proud of Luke!!” – Principal, Jenelle Hindell.
Those interested in watching the spelling bee can view it online at https://spellingbee.com/watch. Luke competed as speller #145. Update: Out of 247 student spellers, Luke tied for 96th place.
