The Scripps National Spelling Bee has been canceled for the first time since World War II, organizers announced on Tuesday.
The spelling bee announced that it was suspending the national finals on March 20 while monitoring the spread of the coronavirus. Organizers determined there was no clear path forward to conduct the bee safely in National Harbor, Md., from May 24-29.
Eighth-grade contestants will not be able to compete for one final time. More than 150 contestants were entered for this year's national finals.
"Our thoughts immediately go to our spellers and their families," executive director Paige Kimble announced.