We are thrilled to bring you the latest news from the 61st Pinal County Spelling Bee, where young minds showcased their linguistic prowess in a battle of words and wits. The event, held on February 16 at the Combs Performing Arts Center, was a celebration of literacy and scholarship, and we are delighted to announce the remarkable winners who emerged from this challenging competition.
Champion Wordsmith: Aaliyah Magsano
After intense rounds of spelling, Aaliyah Magsano, an eighth grader from Legacy Traditional School-San Tan Valley campus, emerged as the 61st Pinal County Spelling Bee champion! Her dedication to language and tenacity throughout the competition were truly commendable. Aaliyah has not only earned the coveted title but has also secured a well-deserved spot to represent Pinal County in the upcoming Arizona State Spelling Bee.
First Runner-Up: Avery Smith-Hendricks
The competition was fierce, and our first runner-up, Avery Smith-Hendricks a sixth grader from Leading Edge Academy Maricopa, demonstrated incredible skill and resilience. Their mastery of words and linguistic finesse earned them the well-deserved title of the 61st Pinal County Spelling Bee first runner-up. Like our champion, Avery will join the ranks of Pinal County's finest at the Arizona State Spelling Bee.
Alternate: Salman Rashid
A special mention also goes to our alternate, Salman Rashid a sixth grader with the JO Combs Unified School District, who demonstrated tremendous spelling skills and dedication.
Next Stop: Arizona State Spelling Bee
Both Aaliyah Magsano and Avery Smith-Hendricks will carry the torch of Pinal County's excellence to the Arizona State Spelling Bee. This prestigious event gathers the brightest spellers from across the state, and we have full confidence that our representatives will make us proud with their linguistic skills and intellectual prowess.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all participants, teachers, parents, and organizers who made the 61st Pinal County Spelling Bee a resounding success. Your commitment to fostering education and nurturing the talents of our youth is truly inspiring.
Copy of letter mailed out 11/17/2023
The investigation of the incident remains ongoing with authorities, and the Office will continue to be more than willing to provide as much assistance as needed.
To support safeguards, the Arizona Department of Homeland Security is providing a grant for monitoring software for all 23 School Districts. The School Superintendent's Office appreciates receiving the grant, and we will continue to do all we can to ensure protective measures for all school districts and employees.
The Pinal County School Superintendent’s Office was originally established in 1914 by the authority of the Arizona State Constitution. As an Educational Service Agency, there is a long history of providing assistance to the school districts in Pinal County. Our organization is committed to working cooperatively with agencies throughout the state in identifying and serving the educational needs in Pinal County.
We strive to accomplish this through leadership and partnering to offer a wide range of educator and student centered services. Today, the roles and responsibilities have changed significantly as society, educational requirements, and economics have changed. However, the ultimate goal of each service and program offered is to improve the quality of learning opportunities provided to over 51,000 students and 6,300 employees that attend or work at public school districts in Pinal County.
