The 57th Annual Putnam County School District Spelling Bee was held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at the PCSD School Board Meeting Room, bringing together outstanding student spellers from across the district for a morning filled with academic excellence, poise, and pride.
The event opened with a warm welcome from Sarajean McDaniel, Executive Director of Leadership Development, who set the tone for a celebration of learning and student achievement. Dr. Melanie Brown, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of St. Johns River State College, served as the pronouncer, guiding students through nine competitive rounds.
After nine challenging rounds, Alvin Williams, representing Putnam Academy of Arts & Sciences, emerged as the 2026 PCSD Spelling Bee Champion. Alvin correctly spelled “invincible” to advance to the final round, where he secured the championship by spelling “parachute.” Travis Ladson of Browning-Pearce Elementary School earned the title of Runner-Up, demonstrating impressive focus and determination throughout the competition.
Beyond their spelling skills, Alvin and Travis exemplified exceptional demeanor, kindness, and sportsmanship. As competitors were eliminated, both students consistently offered words of encouragement, and genuine congratulations to their fellow spellers. Their professionalism, manners, and respect for others stood out and cannot be overstated. They represented not only their schools, but the very best of Putnam County students.
2026 Spelling Bee Participants:
Travis Ladson – Browning-Pearce Elementary School
Carter Brown – James A. Long Elementary School
Elliana Thompson – Kelley Smith Elementary School
Liz Bethany Rangel – Melrose Elementary School
Aushanti Soliz – Middleton-Burney Elementary School
Cameron Leonard – William D. Moseley Elementary School
Celest Donohue – Ochwilla Elementary School
Alvin Williams – Putnam Academy of Arts & Sciences
Gamaliel Rosario – Robert H. Jenkins Elementary School
Special thanks go to our judges Sandy Gilyard, Wendy Hancock, Holly Pickens, and Brenda MacGibbon (Protest Judge) for their time, expertise, and dedication. We are also grateful to Karl Flagg and his daughter, Kandyce Flagg, for their generous donation of trophies, and to WJXT for providing participant certificates.
The district extends heartfelt appreciation to the parents, staff members, friends, and school representatives who came out to support their spellers. Your encouragement made the day even more meaningful.
We are proud to provide opportunities like this that celebrate learning, character, and the bright future of Putnam County.
📸 Photos from the 57th Annual Putnam County School District Spelling Bee
🎥 A full video of the event will be released at a later date. Once available, the video link will be added for families and community members to view and share.
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