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Schools

Spelling Bee Champ Credits Teachers and Family for Win

Solenn Matuska takes first place at countywide Spelling Bee with a tenacity for words and supportive teachers by her side

On Wednesday, March 28, fifth-grader Solenn Matuska of Palm Crest Ridge Elementary was crowned the .

Matuska prepared over a month for the countywide Spelling Bee, pouring over words during breakfast and dinner with her family. This was her second time to reach the county level of the competition. She mentioned her surprise at winning with the correct spelling of “executive” and "indelible," as she lost the competition last year based on the same word.

“I felt really happy and relieved, all the worrying was over,” remarked Matuska on her experience.

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At the Alhambra Almansor Court Conference Center, where the Spelling Bee was held, Matuska had a strong support group. Her father, mother, and two sisters were in attendance. Her two teachers, Carol Bilowitz and Barbara Felsinger, as well as her Principal Karen Hurley were also there to cheer her on. Felsinger described how other teachers in the audience noticed Matuska’s great diction as well as ability to speak slowly and clearly.

“I really do believe Solenn took the lead in preparing. She really loves words, she reads a ton, and she speaks beautifully,” commented Felsinger. “I think she enjoyed the process and when watching her go through it, she was incredibly poised. It was great, so thrilling for us in Alhambra. We just had the best time.”

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Yesterday at school, Matuska was still reeling from the win. She showed appreciation towards those who had helped her place first in the competition and be able to move on to the state Spelling Bee next month in San Joaquin.

“The class, every time I walked in, burst into applause. They were really supportive. And also my teachers, they prepared me for it and gave me confidence.”

Matuska will also be honored at a spirit rally today at the elementary school.

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