Belmont Ridge Middle School student wins LCPS spelling bee

Vikyath Tanamala, a sixth grader from Belmont Ridge Middle School, won the 44th Annual Loudoun County Public Schools Regional Spelling Bee on Thursday, March 12, at Rock Ridge High School. 

Tanamala earned the title after 16 rounds of competition, edging out Dhiya Sudhakar, a sixth grade student from Gum Spring Middle School. This is the second year in a row that Tanamala has won the regional bee. 

The winning word was peccant (adjective), meaning guilty of moral offense; sinning; corrupt.

Both students now advance to the Scripps National Spelling Bee, scheduled for May 25–28, at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. Students from across the nation will compete on national television, showcasing their spelling and vocabulary skills.

“The Spelling Bee is a great reminder of how powerful words can be,” said Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence. “When students study and practice, they’re building confidence, strengthening their communication skills, and discovering the joy of learning. We’re proud of every student who stepped up to compete.”

To learn more about the LCPS Regional Spelling Bee, visit lcps.org/spellingbee. For information about the Scripps National Spelling Bee, visit their website.