Tri-County Spelling Bee Champ (right): Macey King, 8th Grade, Plymouth-Shiloh Runner-up (left) Isaac Hohman, 7th Grade, Ontario. Credit: Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center

MANSFIELD – Eighth-grader Macey King of Plymouth-Shiloh Local Schools clinched the title of  champion of the Tri-County Spelling Bee on Feb. 19.

The bee, held at Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center, lasted for 16 tense rounds. 

King sealed the victory by correctly spelling the championship word “disproportionate.” Seventh-grader Isaac Hohman of  Ontario Middle School finished as runner-up. 

Tri-County Champion: Macey King, 8th Grade, Plymouth-Shiloh 

Tri-County Runner-up: Isaac Hohman, 7th Grade, Ontario 

The bee brought together top student spellers from 15 school districts across Morrow, Richland and Crawford counties. The event drew families, teachers and community members to cheer the contestants on. 

Coordinator Colleen Haynes said the bee offered more than a trophy.

“Spelling bees build confidence, improve vocabulary  and teach students to stay calm under pressure,” Haynes said. “Participants also gain public speaking experience and a stronger  appreciation for language — benefits that extend well beyond the competition.

“Society regularly recognizes talented  athletes for their skills. I am proud that Mid-Ohio gives students the opportunity to showcase academic and artistic talents  too, by hosting events such as the spelling bees, academic challenge competitions and Artapoloosa.” 

Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center

Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center provides specialized academic and support services to 13 school districts and over 20,000 students in Crawford, Morrow and Richland Counties.

Client districts receive services from curriculum, gifted and  special education consultants, speech pathologists, psychologists, special education teachers, occupational therapists and  physical therapists.