Anchorage Fourth Grader Wins Elementary Spelling Bee

Coralyn Akins correctly spelled 'bracken' to take the title.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 6:15pm

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After a lengthy competition, two fourth graders at Bear Valley Elementary in Anchorage, Alaska went head-to-head for several rounds in the school's annual spelling bee. Coralyn Akins ultimately prevailed, correctly spelling the final word 'bracken' to win the competition and advance to the regional bee.

Why it matters

Spelling bees are a long-standing tradition in many schools, testing students' vocabulary, spelling skills, and ability to perform under pressure. Winning a school-level spelling bee is an impressive accomplishment that can boost a student's confidence and lead to further opportunities at higher-level competitions.

The details

The Bear Valley Elementary Spelling Bee featured 16 spellers representing their classes. The competition went on for over 100 words before it came down to the final two fourth graders. They went back and forth for several more rounds until Coralyn Akins correctly spelled the word 'bracken' to claim the title.

  • The spelling bee took place on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
  • Coralyn Akins will now represent Bear Valley Elementary in the regional spelling bee contest.

The players

Coralyn Akins

A fourth grade student at Bear Valley Elementary who won the school's spelling bee.

Bear Valley Elementary

A school in Anchorage, Alaska that hosts an annual spelling bee competition for its students.

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What’s next

Coralyn Akins will compete in the regional spelling bee contest to represent Bear Valley Elementary.

The takeaway

Winning a school-level spelling bee is an impressive accomplishment that can open doors for students to compete at higher levels and build valuable skills in vocabulary, spelling, and public performance.