Southwest Michigan Students to Compete in Regional Spelling Bee

Top spellers from Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties to vie for spot at Scripps National Spelling Bee

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The 2026 Cloverleaf Spelling Competition, hosted by Berrien RESA, will bring together the top three spellers from participating public and parochial schools across Southwest Michigan to compete for cash prizes and a chance to represent the region at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. this spring.

Why it matters

The annual regional spelling bee highlights academic achievement and the importance of strong literacy skills among young students, while also providing an opportunity for the community to support and celebrate their local champions.

The details

The competition will take place on Tuesday, February 24 at the Mendel Center on the campus of Lake Michigan College in Benton Harbor. Students from over 15 schools in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties will compete, with the overall winner earning paid admission to the national spelling bee.

  • The competition begins at 8:30 a.m. on February 24, 2026.
  • The event is open to the public and media.

The players

Berrien RESA

The regional agency serving local public schools in Southwest Michigan, which is hosting the 2026 Cloverleaf Spelling Competition.

Scripps National Spelling Bee

The annual national spelling competition held in Washington, D.C., which the winner of the regional competition will have the opportunity to attend.

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What’s next

The winner of the 2026 Cloverleaf Spelling Competition will represent the region at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. this spring.

The takeaway

The regional spelling bee showcases the academic excellence and literacy skills of young students in Southwest Michigan, while also providing them with the opportunity to compete on a national stage and inspire their local communities.