The word was “pueblo” and it won Superior fifth-grader Conor Toivonen a trip to Billings. He won the Mineral County Spelling Bee held in Alberton on Feb. 28. The runner-up was Liberty Gregory from Alberton.

Nearly 20 students competed, having to spell words like “gardenia,” “prairie” and “karma.” The contenders from Superior and Alberton were elimninated quickly, with the competition over in 20 minutes. St. Regis did not participate in the spelling bee this year. Superintendent Joe Steele said several things came up which prevented them from putting the time and effort into the competition.

“Our priorities were on student learning, and the preparation required would take away some instructional time,” he said.

The State Spelling Bee will be held on March 17 in Billings, where nearly 60 students from all over Montana will gather for the championship.