SJP 8th Grader Wins Regional Spelling Bee

Emmaline ’29 will now compete in Washington, D.C.

Saint John’s Prep is proud to congratulate eighth grader Emmaline Bushman for earning first place in the regional spelling bee! On Tuesday Emmaline successfully spelled the word “Honorarium” to win the Central Minnesota spelling bee hosted by Resource Training & Solutions. Emmaline is the daughter of Catharine and Brendon Bushman of St. Cloud.

Forty students in grades 5 through 8 from across Central Minnesota competed for the opportunity to advance to the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Emmaline earned her spot to compete at the Resource Training & Solutions regional contest by first winning the spelling bee at Saint John’s Prep in January. This was Emmaline’s second time winning the Prep spelling bee, she won first place as a sixth grader in 2023.

Middle School Language Arts Teacher Carlee Biechler says Emmaline really enjoys the camaraderie that occurs among contestants during spelling bees. Ms. Beichler says Emmaline is often the first to congratulate and encourage her fellow spellers and classmates. She says “Emmaline showed her hard work and dedication during the Regional Spelling Bee. We are so proud of her and cannot wait to watch her represent Saint John’s Prep at the National Spelling Bee. Congratulations and good luck, Emmaline!” 

Emmaline’s current middle school language arts teacher, Jeff Kirchoff, admires her dedication and perseverance. This is Emmaline’s second time competing at the Resource and Training Solutions regional spelling bee. “Emmaline is one of the most determined individuals I know. Her preparation for every activity she pursues – whether the Spelling Bee, Knowledge Bowl, or a class assignment – is second to none. More importantly, though, she remains a genuinely humble individual who is always quick to thank people for their time and energy.” 

Emmaline is already preparing for the Scripps National Spelling Bee! She will travel to the Washington, D.C. area to compete May 27–29, 2025. Emmaline will be one of 245 contestants from all 50 states and the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands. This is the 100^th year for the Scripps National Spelling Bee. The first was held in 1925 with just nine contestants.

Founded in 1857, Saint John’s Prep is a Catholic/Benedictine private day and boarding school located on the campus of Saint John’s University in Collegeville, MN. Saint John’s Prep provides students, of all faiths, in grades 6-12 with a college-preparatory curriculum.