By admin 
PHOENIX (AZFamily) — Three Arizona eighth graders are headed to a national spelling bee to test their skills this week.
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The 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee, now in its 101st year, begins Tuesday with preliminary rounds. Quarterfinals and semifinals are set for Wednesday, followed by the finals on Thursday.
Smriti Parajuli of Centennial Middle School in Phoenix, 14 years old
Parajuli is sponsored by the Arizona Educational Foundation and is making her first and final appearance at the national bee. According to her profile, she began competing after winning her classroom spelling bee in fifth grade. She is also active in student council and enjoys reading, traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Esha Marupudi of BASIS Chandler, 14 years old
Marupudi is also sponsored by the Arizona Educational Foundation and is returning to the national stage for the second year in a row. She competed in 2025 and tied for seventh place. Outside of spelling, Marupudi enjoys music, including singing, playing piano and composing songs. She also enjoys fantasy novels, LEGO building, biology and history.
Koen Harvey of Tsaile Elementary School in Window Rock, 14 years old
Harvey is sponsored by the Navajo Times and attends Tsaile Elementary School. His profile says he enjoys basketball and PC games, especially “Geometry Dash.” His favorite school subject is math.
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The competition brings together top spellers from across the country and around the world. Competitors advance through local and regional bees before earning a spot on the national stage.
The 2026 competition will feature students from across the U.S. and beyond as they compete for the national title.
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