Far Hills 2026 School-Wide Spelling Bee

Far Hills Country Day School (Far Hills) held its annual school-wide Spelling Bee on Tuesday, January 21, 2026, in collaboration with the Scripps National Spelling Bee Program. After 45 thrilling rounds, Grade 6 student Nathaniel "Nate" Surak claimed the title of Far Hills Spelling Bee Champion for the third year in a row by correctly spelling "Absorption."

The journey to the school-wide competition began last month, with classroom Spelling Bees held for Grades 3–8 in December. Each classroom bee crowned its own winner, who then advanced to the school-wide event.

“It was inspiring to see our students step up with such confidence, focus, and sportsmanship,” said Sam York, Upper School Learning Support Specialist and Spelling Bee Coordinator. “They came prepared, supported one another throughout the competition, and truly demonstrated what it means to challenge yourself in a positive, respectful environment.”

Head of School Georgia S. Zaiser also praised the students, saying, “I am incredibly proud of our participants for their courage and dedication. What impressed me most was how they demonstrated the Far Hills Five Pillars of Character—Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, Leadership, and Kindness—both in their own performances and in their support for their peers. Congratulations to Nate on an outstanding achievement, and we look forward to cheering him on as he advances to the next level of competition.”

Other participants competing for the county-wide spot included:

• Grade 8:
  • Francisca “Fran” G.
  • Steven “Trey” S.
• Grade 7:
  • William M.
  • Julian S.
• Grade 6:
  • Aaron D.
  • Nathaniel “Nate” S.
• Grade 5:
  • Henry M.
  • Jason I.
• Grade 4:
  • Richard "Cosmo" C.
  • Aariv P.
• Grade 3:
  • Margot S. 

Nate will go on to represent Far Hills Country Day School in the Regional Bee at the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) on March 8, 2026. The entire Far Hills community wishes them the best of luck!