The 2008 Navajo County Spelling Bee was held on Wednesday, February 21, 2007, at the George Garder Fine Arts Auditorium in Holbrook, Arizona. Approximately 59 finalists from local spelling bees competed for trophies/medallions and a chance to go to the state competition. Cash prizes were awarded to the top three finishers.

This year's champion is Analisa Dawson, a 7th grade student who is Home taught. The runner-up is Mikaela Decker, a 4th grade student from Snowflake USD #5. Third Place went to Jack Lasonder, a 5th grade student from Blue Ridge USD #32.

Bee Champion, Analisa Dawson with Linda Morrow, Navajo County School Superintendent

Analisa Dawson, Linda Morrow, Jack Lasonder and Mikaela Decker

Analisa will advance to Tempe, AZ along with 26 other state finalists to determine who will represent Arizona in the National Spelling Bee held in Washington D. C., May 25-31, 2008. The sponsor of this year's Arizona Spelling Bee is US Airways. With additional support from KAET Channel 8 and Safeway.

For further information, regarding the Navajo County Spelling Bee, please contact Tami Phillips, Chief Deputy, at (928) 524-4202.

Top 10 Spellers

Listed from 1st to 10th place: Analisa Dawson, Mikaela Decker, Jack Lasonder, Rachel Metzger, McKay Keith, Lamardo Jones, Cody Davis, Makayla Altaha, Alex Duncan, Ashleigh Wintersmith.