Saturday, March 15, 2025 ~ On Saturday, March 15, 2025, the city of Boston held its 17th annual BCYF Citywide Spelling Bee, organized by the Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) and sponsored by the Boston Bruins Foundation. The event saw 24 young spellers from across the city compete for the top spot and a chance to represent Boston at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington D.C. in May.

Family members, teachers, and friends were present to support the young spellers as they showcased their spelling skills. Among them was Mayor Michelle Wu, who congratulated all participants for their hard work and dedication. She also expressed her pride in having them represent Boston at a national level.

Over 3,000 students from Boston public and parochial schools participated in spelling bees to qualify for the BCYF Citywide Bee. This preparation not only helps improve spelling abilities but also broadens vocabulary and builds self-confidence.

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Marta E. Rivera, Commissioner of BCYF, commended all participants for their dedication and skill. She also thanked the Boston Bruins Foundation for their partnership in bringing this enriching experience to the city's youth. The judges for the event were Yusufi Vali, Sebastian Stockman, and Kate Hennigan.

The Bee took place at Rabb Hall in the Boston Public Library's Copley Branch. All participants were awarded participation medals by Commissioner Rivera during the speaking program that opened with her welcoming speech.

After 16 rounds of intense competition, Sapna Malhotra emerged as this year's winner at just 13 years old. She correctly spelled "Senecio" to claim victory. Ruslana Roshchin from Jamaica Plain came in second place while Haylee Chen from Brighton secured third place.

The Scripps National Spelling Bee is known as the nation's largest and longest-running spelling bee. Sapna will now have the opportunity to represent Boston at the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee. The only national winner from Massachusetts was in 1939.

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In addition to advancing to the National Bee, Sapna also received the Samuel Louis Sugarman Award, a 2025 U.S. Mint Proof Set donated by Mr. Jay Sugarmann in honor of his father, a one-year subscription to Merriam-Webster Unabridged Online, a one-year subscription to Encyclopedia Britannica Online Premium, and a trophy. Second and third place finishers were awarded a $125 Amazon gift card and trophies.

The BCYF Citywide Spelling Bee is just one of the many programs offered by BCYF, which is the City of Boston's largest youth and human service agency. With community input and need in mind, BCYF operates community centers that provide engaging and enriching programs for people of all ages. They also oversee various citywide programs.

As Sapna prepares to represent Boston at the national level, the city is proud of all its young spellers who participated in this year's BCYF Citywide Spelling Bee. Their hard work and determination are an inspiration to all.

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