(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT — June 23, 2025) — Emiliano Ferran Martinez Caloca, a sixth-grade student at Wiggs Middle School, will represent El Paso ISD and the state of Texas at the National Spanish Spelling Bee next month in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Emiliano placed among the top 10 at the first-ever Texas State Spanish Spelling Bee on Thursday, June 19.
The statewide event, held at the Starlight Event Center in El Paso and organized by ESC Region 19, brought together 32 top spellers in grades 4–8 from across Texas. It marked the first time Texas has hosted a state-level Spanish Spelling Bee, and Emiliano proudly earned a spot in the top 10 among fierce competition.
“El Paso ISD is incredibly proud of Emiliano and his outstanding accomplishment,” said Interim Superintendent Martha Aguirre. “He’s not only representing our district, but also shining a light on the importance of bilingualism and academic excellence.”
In addition to earning a medal and certificate of participation, Emiliano received a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card and an invitation to join Team Texas at the National Spanish Spelling Bee, which will take place July 11–12 in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The entire Texas State Spanish Spelling Bee was streamed live and concluded with an awards banquet honoring all participants. El Paso ISD extends a heartfelt congratulations to Emiliano and wishes him the very best as he prepares to take the national stage.