A local eighth grader has secured his place in the national spotlight by winning the Paulette Gilliam Humboldt County Spelling Bee. The competition, held on March 5, 2024, at the Sequoia Conference Center, featured twelve students from across Humboldt County. Jon W. Ford, a student from Pacific Union School, triumphed with the word “effraction,” which refers to the act of making forcible entry.
After five rounds of intense spelling, Ford emerged as the champion, earning a trip to the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. The national competition is scheduled for May 26-28, 2024, at the DAR Constitution Hall. Ford’s achievement has drawn praise from local educational leaders and his school community.
Michael Davies-Hughes, the Humboldt County Superintendent of Schools, expressed pride in the participating students. “Watching these students spell words most adults wouldn’t even attempt was both impressive and a little humbling,” he stated. “Our community is proud of the achievements of every student who had the courage to participate in this Bee.”
Ford’s principal, Mathew Bigham, celebrated the young speller’s dedication. “On behalf of Pacific Union Elementary School, we would like to congratulate Jon W. Ford, Humboldt County’s Spelling Bee Champion!” Bigham said. “Jon’s hard work and commitment have earned him a well-deserved spot at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Maryland. He is a shining example of what our students can achieve, and we couldn’t be more excited to watch him compete for the top prize — $40,000 — representing both his school and his county. We are all rooting for you, Jon!”
The competition also highlighted the talents of other students. Cayana Kohndrow, an eighth grader at Cuddeback School, secured second place, while Michael Glines, a fifth grader at Ferndale Elementary School, took home third place.
The Humboldt County Office of Education expressed gratitude to the volunteers who made the event possible. Among them were Spelling Bee Coordinator Nanette Voss, an instructional coach from Eureka City Schools, and Bill Funkhouser, who pronounced the competition’s words. Judges for the event included Alexa Blania, Mauro Staiano, Kristin Sobilo, and Lily Herlihy.
Coast Central Credit Union played a pivotal role as a co-sponsor of the Spelling Bee, partnering with the Humboldt County Office of Education to provide a travel scholarship for Ford and his parents. The support from local organizations underscores the community’s commitment to fostering educational excellence and celebrating student achievements.
With the national competition on the horizon, Jon W. Ford prepares to represent Humboldt County, showcasing not only his spelling skills but also the spirit of determination and hard work that defines his school and community.
