Kromrey Middle School eighth grader Arnav Vempati will represent Wisconsin at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C., at the end of May, according to an April 23 announcement.
Vempati is the first student from Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District to reach this level. His participation highlights opportunities for students to excel academically and demonstrates the district’s support for extracurricular achievement. According to the official website, the Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District promotes community engagement through extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities for students.
“I had set a goal for myself to go to the national spelling bee after I got out during the state spelling bee last year,” Vempati said. “It is a dream come true to be able to compete this year.” Advanced Learning Specialist Maria Nygard said, “This accomplishment is a direct result of his setting a goal, developing a plan, and then working hard every day in order to achieve it. We couldn’t be prouder!”
Vempati qualified after earning second place at the Badger State Spelling Bee held in Madison on March 21. He will join nearly 250 other competitors from across the United States and abroad at DAR Constitution Hall from May 26-28. The event began in 1925 as an effort by newspapers to promote literacy—a priority also emphasized by MCPASD programs focused on literacy, math, and social-emotional learning according to their official website.
Nygard said, “I am so grateful that our District supports these opportunities. They recognize that a spelling bee offers a unique platform for students to shine in the academic arena.”
The district serves both Middleton and Cross Plains areas in Wisconsin and aims “to understand students’ backgrounds and develop their abilities” while preparing them for global challenges according to its official website. Dr. Dana Monogue served as superintendent of MCPASD.
Reflecting on his preparation strategy, Vempati noted that studying language patterns helps with unfamiliar words: “These stems can help you a lot, as they are contained within many words,” he said. He encouraged future competitors not only to study but also enjoy themselves: “The most important part is to have fun! While spelling bees can be stressful, they are also a place where you can meet others that share your interest in words.”
According to its official website, MCPASD has achieved top ACT composite scores among public non-charter schools both locally and statewide.
