Sophia Bender wins 2026 West Branch Middle School Spelling Bee; Noelani Morales Finishes Runner Up

This year’s West Branch Spelling Bee showcased 24 contestants from grades 6–8 in a highly competitive event. The winner advances to the regional spelling bee at Youngstown State University (YSU), where a spot in the National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. will be on the line.

Former superintendent Dr. Weingart once again had the honor of reading the words to the spellers.

Sophia Bender and Noelani Morales emerged as the final two contestants, going word-for-word through an extended round that pushed both spellers to their limits. After a long battle, Morales misspelled a word, opening the door for Bender. Needing to spell two words correctly to claim the title, Sophia calmly stepped to the microphone and spelled “quartz” and “tournament” back-to-back to secure first place in the 2026 West Branch Spelling Bee.

Congratulations to all of the spellers from grades 6–8 for their great efforts. Sophia Bender earned first place, with Noelani Morales finishing as the runner-up.