GRANTS, N.M. – Grants Cibola County Schools hosted its annual District Spelling Bee on Jan. 21 at the Grants High School Performing Arts Center, bringing together students from across the district and surrounding area for an evening focused on academic excellence, confidence, and preparation.
The event showcased students’ spelling skills and poise under pressure, with competitors representing their schools in front of families, educators, and peers.
GCCS Board of Education President Francie Lee said the bee is a chance to celebrate students who take on the challenge of studying, practicing, and competing in a high-stakes academic setting.
Milan Elementary celebrated a strong showing, with two of its students earning the top spots. Sixth-grader Abel Martinez finished as the district champion, while Bran Marquez earned runner-up honors.
“Congrats to all the District Spelling Bee contestants,” Milan Elementary said in a message following the event, also recognizing Martinez as the district champion and Marquez as the district runner-up.
Top Finishers
• 1st Place: Abel Martinez, Milan Elementary — 6th Grade
• 2nd Place: Bran Marquez, Milan Elementary — 4th Grade
• 3rd Place: Miles Abeyta, Tohajiilee Community School District leaders congratulated all participants for representing their schools and communities well, emphasizing that spelling bees reward persistence and focus just as much as natural talent.