ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — The Ithaca Public Education Initiative (IPEI) 28th Annual Spelling Bee raised $9,400 to support IPEI grants for local students and schools.

The winning team N.O. I.C.E, from Taitem Engineering, took home the Queen Bee Champions Trophy. The Royal Jelly Spellers were the 2026 Silver Bee Champions, and the Danbee Rezzilience claimed the title of 2026 Bronze Bee Team.

The deadline to apply for the final round of IPEI grants for the 2025-26 school year is Monday, April 6th. Ithaca City School District teachers, staff, and students are encouraged to apply.

Learn more about IPEI’s grants ranging from $500 to $1,750 and how to apply here.