"Aluminum, a-l-u-m-i-n-u-m, aluminum," came out of seventh grader, Alan Gagante's mouth, followed by roars of applause as the audience discovered that he would be this year's Spelling Bee winner at JH Gaudet Middle School and Learning Academy.  Standing right next to him was fourth grader, Shannon Ganser, who came in second place after missing the word "accidentally".

Gaudet is no stranger to fourth grade success as Alan stood in Shannon's shoes  just a few short years ago.  This is Alan's second year in the winner's circle.

With 30 participants representing the fourth to eight grades Bee judges Linda Beaupre, Assistant Principal, Donna Murphy and Deb O'Bryan, Grade Leaders were guided by word readers and hosts Michael Mancieri. Principal and Denise McCarthy, Grade Leader and Spelling Bee Coordinator.

Parents and spelling fans quietly sat in seats in the cafeteria trying not to make any noise so to not distract the deep thinkers. Each hoping to spell each word correctly and avoid the dreaded ringing of the cow bell signifying that they would not proceed to the next round.

Congratulation to Alan and Shannon and all of the participants in this year's event.