Rotary-WIB spelling bee starts 1 November in Cay Hill

The Rotary Club of Sint Maarten-Mid Isle and Windward Islands Bank will hold the preliminary round of their 2026 spelling bee on Sunday 1 November at Paradise Event Hall on Welgelegen Road in Cay Hill. The club said 26 pupils aged 10 and under, from grades 4, 5 and 6, will represent seven Sint Maarten schools and three schools in Anguilla.

Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport Melissa Gumbs has confirmed she will attend and moderate the preliminary round, according to the Rotary Club. The top 10 contestants will move to semi-finals on Sunday 8 November, and the top five will compete in the final on Sunday 15 November. All rounds are scheduled for Paradise Event Hall.

The Rotary Club said the public is invited to attend. It said a prize will go to the school with the most spirited fan base, while participants will receive certificates and gift bags. Students will receive refreshments during breaks, and additional prizes and trophies will go to top performers.