March 30, 2025

Josephine Frimpong Wins The Big Blue Bee in Kentucky

News Summary

Josephine Frimpong from Edythe J. Hayes Middle School has triumphed at The Big Blue Bee, qualifying her to represent Kentucky at the upcoming Scripps National Spelling Bee. The contest featured young spellers from various counties, culminating in a showcase of talent that emphasizes the importance of literacy and language skills among students. Frimpong’s achievement highlights her dedication, as well as the support from educators and the community in fostering young scholars. The national spelling bee will take place on May 28, with events broadcasted widely.

Kentucky

Josephine Frimpong of Edythe J. Hayes Middle School has emerged victorious at The Big Blue Bee, an event hosted by the UK College of Education at the Gatton Center. The competition took place on Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m., with Frimpong earning the opportunity to represent Kentucky at the upcoming Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.

The Big Blue Bee featured students from first through eighth grade who had previously won their individual school spelling bees. A total of 245 spellers have qualified for the national competition this year, including six students from Kentucky. Frimpong’s achievement highlights her skill among a broad field of contestants hailing from various counties across the Commonwealth.

The event was emceed by Drew Amman, who facilitated the competition as the young spellers showcased their talents. The counties represented included Adair, Anderson, Bath, Bell, Bourbon, Boyle, Breathitt, Casey, Clark, Clay, Estill, Fayette, Fleming, Franklin, Garrard, Harrison, Jackson, Jessamine, Knott, Knox, Laurel, Lee, Lincoln, McCreary, Madison, Menifee, Mercer, Montgomery, Morgan, Nicholas, Owsley, Perry, Powell, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Rowan, Russell, Scott, Wayne, Whitley, Wolfe, and Woodford. This multi-county participation underscores the event’s significance in promoting literacy and spelling skills among Kentucky’s youth.

In addition to Frimpong, another notable participant was Oliviah Braun, a 12-year-old from Lexington who won her regional spelling bee by correctly spelling “marsupial.” Braun expressed that the regional competition was less challenging than she anticipated, indicating her preparedness for the tougher competition that awaits at the national level. She has relied on an iPad program and extensive reading to enhance her spelling abilities, underlining the diverse methods students employ to prepare for such competitions.

All winners from the regional competitions are gearing up for the Scripps National Spelling Bee, which commences on May 28 with its preliminary round. The entire event will be broadcast on ION platforms, allowing audiences to follow the competitors as they vie for the coveted title. The importance of the Scripps Spelling Bee extends beyond mere competition; it serves to inspire students to deepen their study of language and increases public interest in literacy.

The victory at the Big Blue Bee not only provides Frimpong with a sponsored trip to the national competition but also positions her in front of an audience eager to witness her skills. The accomplishment signifies personal dedication and the support of educators and family, reflecting the community’s investment in the development of young scholars.

This year’s national spelling bee promises to be a remarkable event, showcasing the talents of young spellers from across the nation, further encouraging a culture of learning and literacy which is vital for the next generation.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF

The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!

STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF

Stay Connected

More Updates

High school basketball players in action during the Bluegrass Invitational.

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Submit