By: Cassidy Delamarter, USF College of Education
For the first time, the University of South Florida College of Education hosted the Regional Scripps Spelling Bee, bringing together top young spellers from across Tampa Bay to compete for a spot on the national stage.
A total of 110 K–8 schools across Tampa Bay enrolled. Each school’s champion first competed in an online qualifier, with 58 finalists advancing to the regional championship held on Valentine’s Day. The competition showcased exceptional talent, including several students who achieved perfect scores in the online qualifier.
Second place was awarded to Nicholas (Nick) Martin of Lutheran Church of the Cross Day School, and third place to Oscar Ivanov of Elis Nelson Elementary Center for Gifted and Literacy Innovation. Park Allen, an eighth-grader at East Lake Middle School – Academy of Engineering, secured first place and advanced to represent the College of Education at the prestigious Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C., where 247 regional champions from across the country competed.
Allen, a 2025 regional runner-up, returned in his final year of eligibility to win the regional championship — marking a full circle moment for him, his family and proud school partners.
Park in D.C.
“We are thrilled once again to send a top contender to the Scripps National Spelling Bee from Pinellas County Schools,” said Kim Hill, director of student experience for Pinellas County Schools. “After earning fourth place at Regionals last year, Park worked tirelessly to claim the top spot this year. His perseverance and commitment to excellence make us incredibly proud, and we are confident he will represent Pinellas County Schools and East Lake Middle School with confidence and integrity on the national stage. We are also grateful for the continued support of our regional sponsor, the USF College of Education, whose partnership helps create transformative opportunities for our students.”
The celebration was made even more memorable thanks to generous gifts for the winners from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Tampa Bay Lightning, including signed memorabilia.
“Thank you so much for USF’s College of Education A+ job hosting and the very generous awards,” said Dennis Allen, dad of the first-place winner. "It's all very exciting."
Allen finished among the top 100 spellers in the nation, placing 96th out of 247 spellers from across the country!
This story was updated after the national competition in May 2026