P.J. Gelinas Junior High School ninth-grader Ryan Himmelsbach has amassed a number of impressive spelling accolades over the past several years, including competing in the National Scripps Spelling Bee for two consecutive years. This summer, he added another impressive accolade to his résumé – placing third in the North America Spelling Champion Challenge.

During the challenge, Ryan competed against 100 students across North America and China. 

“Most of the words he got, he did not know but was able to figure them out based on all his knowledge,” said Allison Himmelsbach, Ryan’s mom. “It was also a good social connection and he will have the opportunity in the coming years to volunteer at this bee and at the National … [and] will also be tutoring some kids next year for the National.”