ABE NM Celebrates Biliteracy and Student Achievement
National Spanish Spelling Bee Returns to Albuquerque
The Association of Bilingual Education New Mexico (ABE NM) proudly congratulates every student who participated in the 2026 National Spanish Spelling Bee, held July 10–11 at the National Hispanic Cultural Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The National Spanish Spelling Bee brings together outstanding student spellers from across the country while celebrating bilingualism, biliteracy, academic achievement, and a love for the Spanish language.
Congratulations to this year's national champion, Melody Hinkle of Fort Worth, Texas, and runner-ups Danae Tinajero of San Antonio, Texas, and Brenda Morejon Rodriguez from Katy, Texas. Their accomplishments reflect the hard work, dedication, and passion demonstrated by all of this year's competitors.
ABE NM is honored to support opportunities that recognize multilingual learners and celebrate the value of bilingual education. Congratulations to every student, family, coach, and educator who made this event a success.
A Growing National Tradition
The National Spanish Spelling Bee continues to unite outstanding student spellers from across the United States. Recent participants have represented California, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming.
State Spanish Spelling Bee
2024 State Spanish Bee
Congratulations to our top three ABENM Spanish Spelling Bee: Andrea Garcia, Red Mountain Middle School, Deming Public Schools (1st place). Sophie Otero, Mountain View Ms, Rio Rancho Public Schools (2nd place) Jayden Cruz, Cesar Chavez Elem., Santa Fe Public Schools (Third Place)
Felicidades a los concursantes por su gran esfuerzo de aprender a deletrear bien en español. Gracias a todos los educadores por apoyar la educación bilingüe porque no es solo un programa en las escuelas para asegurar que nuestros alumnos aprendan español, si no que también es un derecho, un derecho para nuestros niños, un derecho de aprender en su idioma mientras aprenden su segundo idioma.
All three winners get to participate at the National Spanish Spelling Bee this summer!