#United States #Championship #Allen, Texas #Scripps National Spelling Bee #Faizan Zaki

Faizan Zaki Wins 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee

In an exhilarating display of talent and perseverance, Faizan Zaki, a 13-year-old speller from Allen, Texas, emerged as the champion of the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee. The competition, which took place at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland, witnessed Zaki's remarkable journey through 21 rounds before he claimed victory with the word "éclaircissement" – a term meaning the clarification of something obscure.

Faizan, a seventh grader from C.M. Rice Middle School, showcased his dedication to the craft, demonstrating unwavering focus and a wealth of knowledge that ultimately led him to this prestigious title. This marks his fourth appearance in the Spelling Bee; the previous years saw him come second to Bruhat Soma in 2024, tie for 21st place in 2023, and finish at the 370th spot in 2019. Notably, Zaki is only the fifth speller in the history of the Scripps National Spelling Bee to win after having finished in second place the year prior.

Adam Symson, the president and CEO of The E.W. Scripps Company, presented the championship trophy. He praised Zaki’s exemplary spirit and commitment that define a true champion. “His determination to win resonated deeply with everyone,” said Symson during the closing remarks of the event, which was also a celebration of the Spelling Bee's 100th anniversary.

Faizan's accomplishment not only brings glory to him but also reinforces the legacy of the Scripps National Spelling Bee that has inspired generations of spellers and captivated audiences for a century. The event is known for promoting educational achievement and nurturing young minds through the exploration of language and vocabulary.

Along with the championship title, Zaki will receive a cash prize of $50,000 from Scripps, a commemorative medal, and the Scripps Cup, which symbolizes the official championship title. Additionally, he will receive educational prizes including:

• - A cash prize of $2,500 and a reference library from Merriam-Webster, the Bee's dictionary partner.
• - A $400 reference works package, including a replica set of the 1768 Encyclopædia Britannica alongside a three-year membership to Britannica Online Premium.
• - $1,000 in Scholastic Dollars to donate to a school of his choice, honoring his achievement.
• - A five-year subscription to News-O-Matic’s K-8 news platform for his school.

Sarvadnya Kadam from Visalia, California, who represented the Tulare County Office of Education, secured second place and will receive $25,000, while Sarv Dharavane from Dunwoody, Georgia, will take home $15,000 for his third-place finish representing the Georgia Association of Educators.

The 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee commenced with 242 talented spellers from various regions, each vying for the ultimate title. The results and various rounds can be tracked on the official Spelling Bee website, spellingbee.com. For those who missed the live airing, an encore presentation aired on Scripps News, providing another opportunity to witness the excitement.

The Scripps National Spelling Bee is recognized as the largest and one of the longest-running educational programs in the nation, first launched in 1925. It not only highlights individual academic accomplishments but also fosters a sense of community and connection through learning. More details about the Scripps National Spelling Bee can be found on their official website at spellingbee.com.