Letter to the Editor - Thanks to all for working the county spelling bee

Dear Editor,

Feb. 22, 2024, the 57th Annual Hill County Spelling Bee was held at Havre Middle School. This event brings together all of the best student (grades 4-8) spellers in Hill County to determine who will represent our area at the state competition in Bozeman on March 9, 2024. Crucial financial support for this event was provided by Independence Bank in the form of Chamber of Commerce gift certificates for the top three finishers: $50, $35 and $20. Medals were provided by the Hill County Superintendent of Schools Office.

There were 66 students (15 alternates), fourth through eighth grade, participating, and each of these students were winners at local district spelling bees that were arranged and organized by these teachers/administrators: Box Elder Schools, Mollee Gemar; Cottonwood West School, Monica Mattson; Gildford Colony School, Noel Kruse; Havre Middle School, Curt Leeds; North Star School, Jessica Myers; Rocky Boy School, Donald Cox; St. Jude Thaddeus School, Katie Kopp, and Sunnyside School, Pax Haslem. Key logistical help was provided by HMS Principal Curt Leeds and the HMS Maintenance Department.

Those officials helping at the Spelling Bee were one past county superintendent of schools, two Hill County Commissioners, a Sunnyside school counselor, and five retired teachers. These officials were: Pronouncer of Words, Marie Deegan. Judges were Marge Suek, Jackie Hanson and Jake Strissel. Rounds Keeper, Char Sticka. Registration and seating, Julie Monson and Sandy Wilson.

This opportunity would not exist without the efforts of these community leaders who see this as an investment in our youth. We owe them our thanks!

Gratefully,

Vicki Proctor

Hill County Spelling Bee director

Hill County superintendent of schools