South Cook Spelling Bee finalists move forward to compete in Regional

Richton Park, Illinois—March 4, 2025- Thirty-two of the top spellers in the south and southwest suburbs displayed their skills on Tuesday in the 15th Annual South Cook Intermediate Service Center 4 Spelling Bee.

Yizrael Stephen, a seventh grader from Trinity Lutheran School in Tinley Park, was the first place finalist of the event, spelling the word “zoetic” to win the bee. The second place finalist, Kirsten Cerdenia, a sixth grader from Liberty Junior High School in Burbank School District 111, and third place finalist, Baileigh McCree, a seventh grader from Columbia Central in Steger School District 194, will also advance to compete in the Regional ISC Spelling Bee championship on March 19 at the E.F. Lindop School in Broadview, Illinois.

The winner of the regional event and one parent will have all expenses paid by the spelling bee sponsors, Pepper Construction and ARCON Associates, an architecture firm, to participate in the national Scripps Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. in May.

The South Cook ISC 4 Spelling Bee was held at Southland College Prep Charter High School in Richton Park, Illinois.

“It’s most rewarding to see the energy and enthusiasm which all of the competitors in the bee have for learning,” said Dr. Blondean Y. Davis, superintendent of Matteson District 162 and Southland College Prep CEO.

The South Cook Intermediate Service Center (SCISC) sponsors the spelling bee. SCISC serves as the Regional Office of Education for south Cook County providing support and services to 66 school districts and 5 special education cooperatives. It offers a variety of services aimed at enhancing the quality of education in the region by assisting districts with resources, training, and collaboration opportunities to improve student achievement and meet the needs of all learners.

Dr. Anthony J. Marinello, SCISC executive director, believes that the spelling bee is more than just a competition.

“It’s an invaluable experience that fosters confidence, perseverance, and the joy of learning, empowering students to reach their fullest potential while celebrating their achievements along the way,” Marinello said. "The courage it takes to step onto this stage is no small feat, and each of these students has shown incredible perseverance and dedication.”