The San Joaquin County Office of Education is once again hosting the San Joaquin County Spelling Bee Championships.

The 24th annual event will begin on Monday at the SJCOE Wentworth Educational Center, 27207 Transworld Dr., Stockton, with the Elementary Division – that’s students in grades four to six in public and private schools throughout the county – beginning at 4 p.m.

Unlike previous years, youngsters in this division will write down the spelling of each assigned word rather than recite them orally.

Such changes were necessary due to safety protocol due to COVID-19. Last year’s Spelling Bee was cancelled due to the pandemic.

Social distancing, face masks, etc. will be required for those attending this SJCOE event.

Students in the Junior High Division – grades seven through nine – will battle it out for the top two spots on Wednesday beginning at 4 p.m.

The top two winners in each division will earn a plaque, receive a Barnes & Noble gift card, and more importantly qualify for the state Spelling Bee Championship in May.

Sponsoring the SJCOE Spelling Bee Championships are Premier Community Credit Union and the SJCOE Educational Foundation.

For more information, log on to www.sjcoe.org