(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – March 19, 2025) — Two young spellers from El Paso ISD have made their mark once again in the district’s Spanish Spelling Bee competition, tying for first place and earning a spot in the upcoming regional round.
For the second year in a row, Shaheli De Silva of Young Women’s STEAM Prep Academy and Emiliano Ferran Martinez of Wiggs Middle School displayed incredible skill and perseverance as they went head-to-head in an intense final round. The two students battled it out for an hour, each taking turns spelling challenging Spanish words, until it was ultimately determined to be a tie.
Isaac Diaz from Paul Moreno Elementary was announced as the runner up.
The students have spent months preparing, memorizing hundreds of words and practicing with their coaches. Their teachers and families have supported them every step of the way, reinforcing the value of learning in an engaging and competitive environment.
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The El Paso ISD Spanish Spelling Bee has become a highly anticipated event, bringing together talented young students from across the district who share a love for language and learning. Each year, students not only demonstrate their linguistic skills but also their ability to focus under pressure and work collaboratively with their peers.
With the regional round on the horizon, Shaheli and Emiliano are poised to continue their journey to further competition, representing El Paso ISD with pride.