Blue Jackets to Host Scripps Regional Spelling Bee

Event highlights organization's commitment to education and literacy initiatives in the community

Mar. 13, 2026 at 4:54pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Columbus Blue Jackets will host the Scripps Regional Spelling Bee for the second consecutive year on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Nationwide Arena. The event will welcome top young spellers from across central Ohio to compete for the opportunity to advance to the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

Why it matters

The partnership between the Blue Jackets and the Scripps National Spelling Bee highlights the organization's dedication to supporting education and literacy programs in the local community. Events like the regional spelling bee help reinforce the importance of academic achievement and cultivating future leaders.

The details

Since January, schools throughout the region's 23-county territory have conducted spelling bees, with students competing to advance to the regional competition. The top 40 school champions will gather at Nationwide Arena to compete, with the winner earning an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C. to represent the region at the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

  • The Scripps Regional Spelling Bee will take place on Friday, March 20, 2026, from 4–8 p.m. at Nationwide Arena.
  • The Scripps National Spelling Bee is held at the end of May each year.

The players

Tara Battiato

Sr. Director of Community Development and Executive Director of the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation.

Mike Todd

Arena Host for the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Greg Murray

Public Address Announcer for the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Erin Simonek

Reporter at ABC6, who will serve as head judge.

Kelli Bates

Development Assistant with the Columbus Metropolitan Library, who will serve as a judge.

Aaron Portzline

Senior Writer covering the Blue Jackets for The Athletic, who will serve as record keeper.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Events like the Scripps Regional Spelling Bee highlight the dedication and curiosity of students across our region. We are proud to welcome these incredible young scholars to Nationwide Arena and celebrate their hard work while reinforcing the importance of literacy and education in shaping future leaders.”

— Tara Battiato, Sr. Director of Community Development and Executive Director of the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation (nhl.com)

What’s next

The winner of the Scripps Regional Spelling Bee will advance to the Scripps National Spelling Bee, held at the end of May in Washington, D.C.

The takeaway

The Blue Jackets' partnership with the Scripps National Spelling Bee demonstrates the organization's commitment to supporting educational initiatives and cultivating a love of learning in the local community.