Despite the snow on the ground, one of the sure signs of spring is the annual spelling bee, which will take place on Wednesday, April 11 in the PAC. The competition begins at 7 p.m. and will run until 9 p.m.

Admission is $5, but the entrance fee is waived for participants. Those who wish to participate can can sign up outside N206.

The event is hosted by NEHS and the money raised will be donated to United Through Reading, a charity that connects military families that are separated by providing the experience of reading aloud together.

“I had offers a couple years ago who always thought spelling bees were commercial and nerdy and they wanted to take the idea of that nerdy event and make it entertaining,” said Mrs. Sara Armbrecht, sponsor of NEHS.

Coral Sallin, a junior who has participated in the Spelling Bee for the last two years, said she is doing it again because, “it’s just fun, different and for a good cause.”

This year, the panel of judges will include Armbrecht, as well as senior officers Emma Potts and Brianna Carlson.

“We try to do themes, like school subjects and teachers’ names. As the rounds go on, the words become more difficult,” said Armbrecht.

This year will mark the third year that the Spelling Bee has taken place. Approximately 30 students participate each year, and last year’s event drew in an audience of over 100 people.