Region Three emerged as the overall winner, dominating in the 3rd Annual Spanglish Bee Competition, organized by the Ministry of Education’s Migrant Education Support Unit (MESU) in partnership with the National Literacy Department.
The region dominated all four segments—Spelling, Vocabulary, Listening Comprehension, and Reading Comprehension.
A press release from the Ministry of Education (MOE) on Monday said that the Spanglish competition saw participation of students from Regions 3, 4, 5, 7, and Georgetown, all of whom showcased exceptional language abilities in a competition that tested literacy skills across all categories. Region 4 secured second place, while Georgetown placed third, rounding out the top contenders in this year’s competition.
In the Vocabulary segment, competitors were asked to demonstrate knowledge of key words and phrases in both languages. They were quizzed on how English and Spanish vocabulary can merge to form hybrid terms common in bilingual contexts. This segment is designed to reinforce students’ language fluency while expanding their understanding of how language evolves in multilingual societies.
The Spelling category tested the participants’ ability to spell words from both English and Spanish. This required students to not only have a solid grasp of spelling rules in each language but also to adapt to the unique nuances that arise when these languages are combined into Spanglish. It was a challenge that emphasized precision, attention to detail, and deep linguistic understanding.
In the Grammar category, students were tested on their ability to apply the correct grammatical structures of both languages. Additionally, they had to showcase an understanding of how Spanglish often plays with grammatical norms to create new structures that are commonly used in everyday communication within bilingual communities. This aspect of the competition encouraged students to think critically about the mechanics of language while also appreciating the flexibility and creativity that Spanglish introduces.
Finally, the Reading and Writing Comprehension category challenged students to read and write passages that switched fluidly between Spanish and English. This required a high level of fluency in both languages, as well as the ability to interpret and produce complex text that seamlessly blended the two. The category tested not just their language skills, but their ability to think and express themselves bilingually.
MOE said that the Spanglish Bee Competition has become one of the most anticipated events on the academic calendar for migrant students forming part of the Migrant Education Support Unit’s broader mission to promote inclusivity in education. It said it is a testament to MOE’s commitment to ensuring all students, regardless of their linguistic background, have equal opportunities to succeed in the classroom. For migrant students, who often face unique challenges in adapting to a new educational system, MOE says the competition provides an invaluable opportunity to develop and showcase their skills. It also helps to break down barriers, fostering an environment where all students feel welcome, respected, and capable of achieving academic success.
The event also plays a crucial role in the MOE’s wider efforts to foster a more inclusive educational system that reflects the diverse linguistic and cultural makeup of Guyana. By recognizing the linguistic practices of bilingual students and incorporating them into the formal educational environment, MOE says the Spanglish Bee helps to create a more welcoming and supportive atmosphere for all students, particularly those from migrant communities.
Now in its third year, the event continues to grow in scope and impact, helping to raise awareness about the importance of bilingualism in education.
MOE said that Spanglish Literacy Bee aims to expand its reach, inspiring more students to embrace their bilingual heritage and participate in this unique celebration of language and culture. With each passing year, the competition reinforces the Ministry of Education’s commitment to inclusivity, equality, and excellence in education. By continuing to celebrate bilingualism and promote literacy in both languages, the MOE says that Spanglish Literacy Bee is helping to shape a more inclusive, dynamic, and culturally rich educational landscape for all students in Guyana.
