Richnafsky casts his spell at Woodland bee
Third graders partipate in bee

Finalists in the Woodland Elementary School spelling bee are shown with the organizer, high school student Joey Botera (back, far left). They included: front -- Madisen Guisto, Jase Gillette, Hannah Lewis, McKenzie Magaro; back -- McKayan Johnson, Andy Richnafsky (champion), Mackenzie Tressler, Katrina Conner, Renee Marsiglio and Zoe Cossman. Photo submitted by Jennifer Olivett

Third-grader Andy Richnafsky was recognized as Woodland Elementary School's best speller after competition in Emporium last week.

An initial round narrowed the field to 10 finalists. They square off on Tuesday tackling fifth- and sixth-grade spelling words. Richnafsky earned a pizza party for his homeroom by claiming the top prize.

High school student Joey Botera helped to organize and operate the spelling bee.

"The entire third-grade class should be commended for their efforts, as well as for showing great team spirit and support for each other," said Jennifer Olivett, teacher for the Enrichment and Gifted Students programs.