The Scripps National Spelling Bee is a tradition that celebrates academic excellence and linguistic precision. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the competition, and among the many talented spellers, 22 hailed from Texas. As the competition narrows, one speller from Plano, Texas, Faizan Zaki, remains a beacon of hope for the Lone Star State. This article delves into Zaki’s journey, highlights other Texan competitors, and previews the excitement surrounding the final rounds.
The Scripps National Spelling Bee is more than just a contest; it’s a testament to the dedication and hard work of young students who master the intricacies of the English language. For participants, families, and educators, the Bee is a celebration of academic achievement and the pursuit of knowledge. This year, the competition holds extra significance as it marks a century of spelling excellence.
This article will explore the journey of Faizan Zaki, the last Texan standing, and acknowledge the efforts of all 22 Texas participants. Additionally, it will provide details on how to watch the final rounds and understand the significance of this annual event.
Faizan Zaki: Plano’s Spelling Prodigy
Faizan Zaki, a 13-year-old 7th grader from Plano’s C.M. Rice Middle School, has emerged as the last Texan in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. This marks his fourth appearance in the prestigious competition. His past performances include a tie for 370th place in 2019, a tie for 21st place in 2023, and a remarkable second-place finish last year. Zaki’s consistent participation and improvement demonstrate his unwavering commitment to mastering the art of spelling.
Beyond his spelling prowess, Faizan enjoys video games, speedcubing, and playing the viola. Sponsored by the Dallas Sports Commission, Zaki is not only an academic talent but also a well-rounded individual with diverse interests. As the only returning finalist in 2025, he brings a wealth of experience and determination to the competition.
“Returning to the Bee this year, I feel more prepared than ever,” says Zaki. “The experience I’ve gained in previous years has been invaluable, and I’m ready to give it my all.”
Faizan’s journey inspires young spellers and underscores the importance of perseverance. His story resonates with students striving for excellence in any field. He exemplifies the idea that dedication and hard work can lead to significant achievements.
Other North Texas Contenders
Besides Faizan Zaki, three other spellers from North Texas showcased their talents at the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Shreyansh Zadoo, Avishka Dudala, and Brihasa Veduru represented their schools and communities with pride. Although they were eliminated before the final rounds, their participation highlights the robust academic environment in North Texas.
Shreyansh Zadoo, a 14-year-old 8th grader at Van Alstyne Junior High School, enjoys video games and aspires to be a paleontologist. Making his first appearance at the Bee, Shreyansh was sponsored by the Dallas Sports Commission. His diverse interests reflect the multifaceted nature of young scholars today.
Avishka Dudala, a 12-year-old 7th grader from Prosper’s Rogers Middle School, finds joy in tennis and creative writing. Sponsored by the Dallas Sports Commission, Avishka’s participation underscores the importance of extracurricular activities in fostering well-rounded individuals.
Brihasa Veduru, a 12-year-old 7th grader at Keller Middle School, enjoys reading, drawing, and working with clay. Sponsored by the Fort Worth Public Library and Fort Worth Sports Commission, Brihasa made her second appearance at the Bee, having tied for 57th place in 2023. Her return to the competition highlights her continued dedication and growth as a speller.
Texas Participants
The Scripps National Spelling Bee featured 22 spellers from across Texas, each demonstrating exceptional spelling skills. While only Faizan Zaki advanced to the final rounds, the participation of all these students reflects the state’s commitment to academic excellence. Here’s a list of the other Texas spellers and the rounds in which they were eliminated:
- Abilene: 12, 7th grade (Out in Round 6, misspelled paraclete as paracleat)
- Amarillo: 12, 7th grade (Out in Round 9, misspelled tatpurusha as tatpurasha)
- Austin: 11, 5th grade (Out in Round 5, misdefined flagrant)
- Austin: 14, 8th grade (Out in Round 6, misspelled culmen as culmin)
- Corpus Christi: 14, 8th grade (Out in Round 9, misspelled choristate as christate)
- Dallas: 12, 7th grade (Out in Round 7, misspelled voltinism as voltonism)
- Dallas: 13, 7th grade
- Dallas: 14, 8th grade (Out in Round 7, misspelled neoteny as neotini)
- El Paso: 10, 4th grade (Out in Round 3, written test)
- Fort Worth: 12, 7th grade (Out in Round 10, misspelled cardueline as carduiline)
- Houston: 10, 4th grade (Out in Round 6, misspelled categorem as catagorem)
- Houston: 14, 8th grade (Out in Round 3, written test)
- Houston: 8, 2nd grade (Out in Round 5, misdefined manifold). Teoh was the youngest speller in the Bee.
- Laredo: 14, 8th grade (Out in Round 4, misspelled keelblock as kielblock)
- Lubbock: 14, 8th grade (Out in Round 3, written test)
- McAllen: 14, 8th grade (Out in Round 6, misspelled petiole as pettiole)
- Midland: 14, 8th grade (Out in Round 5, misdefined dirge)
- Odessa: 14, 8th grade (Out in Round 3, written test)
- San Angelo: 14, 8th grade (Out in Round 1, misspelled Beaux arts as bozar)
- San Antonio: 13, 7th grade (Out in Round 9, misspelled soukous as sucuse)
- Victoria: 12, 6th grade (Out in Round 3, written test)
- Waco: 13, 8th grade (Out in Round 3, written test)
These young spellers have dedicated countless hours to studying and mastering the English language. Their participation in the Scripps National Spelling Bee is a testament to their hard work and the support of their families and educators.
Prizes and Recognition
The Scripps National Spelling Bee rewards all participants with a prize package that includes a certificate of participation, a one-year Merriam-Webster subscription, a US Mint proof set, a one-year subscription to Britannica Online, a one-year subscription to News-O-Matic for the speller’s school, and a limited-edition medallion from Rookwood Pottery commemorating the Bee’s 100th anniversary.
Quarterfinalists receive a commemorative pin and a $100 gift card, while semifinalists are awarded a commemorative medal and a $500 gift card. Finalists receive a commemorative medal and a cash prize ranging from $2,000 to $25,000, depending on their placement. The champion is awarded a $50,000 cash prize, a commemorative medal, and the prestigious Scripps Cup.
These prizes acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the spellers, providing them with resources and recognition that will support their future academic pursuits.
Last Year’s Dramatic Spell-Off
The 2024 Scripps National Spelling Bee concluded with a dramatic 90-second spell-off between Bruhat Soma and Faizan Zaki. Bruhat Soma, from St. Petersburg, Florida, won the competition by spelling 29 words correctly, while Faizan Zaki spelled 20 words correctly.
The spell-off format added an element of excitement and urgency to the competition, showcasing the spellers’ ability to perform under pressure. Despite not winning, Faizan Zaki’s impressive performance demonstrated his exceptional spelling skills and determination.
Texas’s Rich Spelling Bee History
Texas has a distinguished history in the Scripps National Spelling Bee, with spellers from the state winning 16 national bees, more than any other state. The most recent champion from Texas was Harini Logan, of San Antonio, in 2022. Before her, Rohan Raja, of Dallas, claimed the title in 2019.
This rich history underscores the state’s commitment to academic excellence and the high level of spelling proficiency among its students. Texas’s success in the Scripps National Spelling Bee is a testament to the dedication of its students, families, and educators.
Conclusion
As the 100th Scripps National Spelling Bee progresses, the focus remains on Faizan Zaki, the last Texan standing. His journey, along with those of the other 21 Texas participants, highlights the dedication and talent of young spellers across the state. The competition not only celebrates academic achievement but also underscores the importance of perseverance and hard work.
The Scripps National Spelling Bee is a testament to the enduring value of education and the pursuit of knowledge. As Faizan Zaki prepares for the final rounds, he carries the hopes and aspirations of Texas with him, embodying the spirit of excellence and determination that defines the Lone Star State.
Whether or not Zaki wins, his participation and the participation of all the Texas spellers contribute to the rich legacy of academic achievement in the state. The Scripps National Spelling Bee continues to inspire young students to strive for excellence and celebrate the power of language.
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