WASHINGTON, D.C. — Thirteen Florida students qualified to compete in the 2024 Scripps National Spelling Bee taking place outside Washington, D.C. this week.

What You Need To Know

  • Several Florida students are competing in the Scripps National Spelling Bee

  • Dev Shah of Largo won the 2023 championship, and is providing guest analysis during the competition this year

  • The final round is on Thursday night

Three of the spellers, 8th grader Elvis Avetis, 8th grader Nathan Crabbendam and 6th grader Vel Sethirayar attend Orange County Public Schools.

"I think one of the biggest things that got me interested in spelling is reading," said Vel. "One of the reasons that I do pretty well in spelling is because a lot of the words that I see are actually in books that I’ve read before."

"This is my first and last year because I’m in 8th grade. It’s a lot to take in. It’s amazing," said Nathan.

Lakewood Ranch Preparatory Academy 5th grader Amara Chepuri shared that sentiment. "I have no words. I’m just amazed at how this place is and the competition is very surreal," Amara said.

Elvis Avetis, and Lutz Preparatory School 8th grader Jordin Oremosu said they were excited to be cheered on from home.

"All my friends know that I’m here and everyone in the school will be rooting for me," Elvis said.

"I’ve told a bunch of my friends, pretty much the whole school knows that I’m competing right now. And, they are watching. I’ve gotten reactions from all of them and I know that they’ve got my back," said Jordin.

2023 Scripps National Spelling Bee Champion, Dev Shah of Largo is providing guest analysis and commentary at the competition this year.

He had this advice for those competing:

"Enjoy the moment and take everything in because for a lot of spellers this is their last year of eligibility, so just enjoy it and make friends and make better memories," Dev said.