I. OVERVIEW OF THE BEE
The Scripps National Spelling Bee is the nation's largest and longest-running educational program, administered by The E.W. Scripps Company. Bee Week 2026 takes place Sunday, May 24 through Friday, May 29. Champion spellers, their family members, regional partners, educators, and members of the media will attend Bee Week. Throughout the week, participants compete in the national competition, attend tours and parties, and take part in other activities and events.
II. WHAT COLLEGE CREW DOES
Members of the College Crew answer questions from parents, spellers, regional partners, and members of the media; unpack and pack boxes; perform clerical tasks; set and reset the stage and other event venues; attend meetings and rehearsals; serve as ushers, and more. Along the way, they form valuable networking connections and gain important experience in event management, media relations and communications.
III. COLLEGE CREW ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Crew members are not required to have experience with spelling bees. Exceptional spelling skill is not required, but excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills are a must.
An applicant must:
- be a full-time student finishing their freshman, sophomore, junior or senior year of college in the spring of 2026;
- provide at least two work or volunteer references;
- commit to arrive at JW Marriott in Washington D.C., on Friday, May 22, 2026, and depart on Saturday, May 30, 2026;
- comply with COVID-19 safety protocols imposed by the venue, Scripps or applicable law;
- comply with the College Crew dress code and conduct yourself in a manner conducive to a professional environment;
- not be a first-, second- or third-degree relative of an E.W. Scripps Company employee, 2026 national competitor, Bee official or Bee Week contributor not a part of the College Crew;
- not have served in any paid or volunteer instructional, coaching or advisory capacity for students preparing for spelling bees and,
- submit a completed College Crew application to the Bee by January 23, 2026.
Previous participation in Bee Week or spelling bees at any level is not required for College Crew consideration. Former College Crew members who meet the above eligibility requirements are welcome to reapply for 2026.
IV. TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
The Bee will cover your room & tax at the JW Marriott in Washington D.C. over the dates you are required to serve at Bee Week: May 22 (check-in) through May 30 (check-out). You will share a room with two double beds with another College Crew member of the same gender.
You will be responsible for arranging travel to and from the JW Marriott in Washington D.C.
V. COMPENSATION
If you are offered a College Crew position and you successfully complete your Bee Week assignments, you will receive a $1,400 stipend for your time, and to assist with coverage of your transportation to and from JW Marriott, and incidental travel expenses you may incur during Bee Week (taxi fare, airport parking, baggage fees, meals, etc.), a $1,100 travel stipend.
VI. HOW TO APPLY
On or before January 23, 2026, you should complete and submit the following application. Late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
