PRESS RELEASE 

FROM THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, YOUTH, SPORTS AND CULTURE

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 5^th March 2025 – The nation’s brightest young spellers took center stage at the National Primary School Spelling Bee held at Beaches Turks & Caicos on Thursday, February 27, 2025. Sponsored by F Chambers, Island Printing, Beaches Turks & Caicos Islands in conjunction with the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, the highly anticipated event showcased the spelling prowess of eleven primary school students from across the country. With a remarkable display of talent and determination, KERESSA WYNTER, a student from Ianthe Pratt Primary, emerged triumphant.

Congratulation to Our Exceptional Spellers!

Hon. Rachel M Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, noted, “It is my great pleasure to extend heartfelt congratulations to our eleven (11) exceptional primary school students who participated in the National Spelling Bee, held on Thursday, February 27th at Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort Villages and Spa. This event is a true celebration of learning, perseverance, and excellence.

Expanding one’s vocabulary and mastering spelling are more than just academic skills—they are keys to better communication, critical thinking, and self-confidence. A strong vocabulary enhances reading comprehension, writing abilities, and even public speaking. Through this competition, our students have sharpened their minds, strengthened their focus, and built discipline—qualities that will serve them well throughout life.

I extend my deepest gratitude to our dedicated teachers, coaches, and supportive parents. Your guidance and encouragement have played a vital role in shaping these young learners. Your investment in their education will have a lasting impact on their futures.

A special thank you to the organizers of this competition, led by our Education Officer, Mrs. Sarah Kennedy, for creating such a meaningful and enriching opportunity for our students. Your hard work and commitment continue to nurture a culture of academic excellence in our nation.

Furthermore, I express my sincere appreciation to our valued partners whose generous support has made this event possible. A special acknowledgment goes to Mr. Mark Fulford and Mrs. Ava Fulford, owners of F. Chambers and Island Printing. Your unwavering commitment to education exemplifies the saying: Staying together is progress! Working together is success! Your contributions are truly making a difference. Additionally, our gratitude extends to Beaches Turks and Caicos for their continued dedication to advancing education in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

As we reflect on the power of knowledge, let us remember what Proverbs 4:7 says.  “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.”

To all our young spellers, be proud of your efforts, embrace the challenges, and enjoy the journey—each of you is a winner for your resilience and dedication in representing your schools at the national level.

Congratulations to Our Top Performers:

1^st  Place: Karessa Wynter, Ianthe Pratt Primary – 200 points (spelling all words correctly!)

2^nd Place: Yash O’Chani, Precious Treasures International School – 195 points

3^rd Place: Kevaun Lewis, Eliza Simons Primary – 190 points

Continue striving for excellence, and may this achievement be just the beginning of many more to come.”

Managing Director of Island Printing, Ava-Dayne Fulford in a statement said, “F Chambers and Island Printing are once again proud to have been the major sponsors of the 2025 National Spelling Bee . It is a partnership between us and the Ministry of Education that we hope to expand upon and elevate to greater heights in the future.”

She continued by saying, “It is important for us to understand that education is not just about imparting knowledge but about inspiring the curiosity, confidence, and creativity that will shape our leaders of tomorrow. The Spelling Bee is far more than just a contest of spelling; it’s a celebration of discipline, hard work, and intellectual growth. It’s about pushing boundaries, striving for excellence, and building a foundation for lifelong learning.

Congratulations goes out this year’s winner, Keressa Wynter, of the Ianthe Pratt Primary School as well as the runner up, Yash O’Chani, of Precious Treasures International School. You have done well. Congratulations to all the brave young boys and girls who participated this year and we hope to see even greater participation in 2026. I must also mention the hard work of the coaches, teachers and parents – your work is invaluable.  Keep inspiring, motivating and enlightening.”

Coordinator of the Spelling Bee, Education Officer, Mrs. Sarah Kennedy, extends heartfelt gratitude to Coaches, Parents, Volunteers – Pronouncers, Judges, Scorers, and timekeeper, Radio Turks & Caicos and FLOW for making this year’s Spelling Bee a tremendous success! “Your enthusiasm, dedication, and support have created an inspiring environment for our participants, allowing their hard work and passion for spelling to shine brightly.

Together, you have created a memorable experience that celebrates the power of words and fosters a love for learning. Thank you for joining us in this journey, and we look forward to seeing you all again next year!”