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Literacy in Kamloops

Literacy in Kamloops returns with 15th Annual Spelling Bee

May 11, 2026 | 4:19 PM

KAMLOOPS — Literacy in Kamloops hosted its 15th Annual Team Spelling Bee Monday (May 11) morning at the Delta Hotel downtown, bringing local businesses, sponsors and wellwishers together for a friendly competition focused on community learning and literacy support.


Seventeen teams took part in this year’s event, with each group made of seven-to-eight participants – all competing together to spell increasingly difficult words. 

Unlike traditional solo spelling bees, the event encourages teamwork and collaboration.

Some of the words this year spelling contest included:

Languorous – Being in a state of dreamy, or pleasant sluggishness 

Surreptitious – Describes actions done secretly and/or stealthily 

Querulous – Someone who is habitually complaining 

“We know literacy is so important and the money we raise at the spelling bee fundraiser will go into the Raise-A-Reader campaign, which receives a percentage of matching funding from the province. That money supports our literacy programs for all ages throughout the year,” said Fiona Clare, literacy outreach coordinator with Literacy Kamloops.

After each round, the spelled words checked by guest judges who tallied the score.

In all, there were 20 words called out this morning – not counting the three practice words.

Clare says the annual event will continue to support literacy programs in the community while bringing local organizations together in a fun, and engaging way.

“It’s a fun, team-building event and it’s just about celebrating literacy and learning and that it is a lifelong journey,” Clare said.