West Oak Middle School student, Adam Kastler, was recently awarded the top honor in this year’s Lake County Regional Spelling Bee. However, the eighth grade spelling wonder will not be resting on his laurels. Because of Adam’s outstanding performance at the regional level, he will progress to the National Spelling Bee competition in Washington, D.C. Adam will be competing against the top spellers in the country and will be cheered-on by the entire Diamond Lake community.
In addition to being a stellar speller, Adam has also demonstrated his academic prowess in the area of mathematics. During this year’s Mayor’s Math Challenge, sponsored by the Village of Mundelein, Adam placed third in the middle school category.
When he’s not busy competing in academic challenges or taking an advanced math class at Stevenson High School, Adam enjoys showcasing his musical talents. He is a proud member of the West Oak Middle School Band and West Oak Middle School Jazz Band. He is also a member of the National Junior Honor Society.
Dr. Joseph Petrella, Superintendent of Schools, was thrilled to learn of Adam’s prestigious accomplishment. Dr. Petrella and Mrs. Colette Ford, Assistant Superintendent, presented Adam with a Certificate of Achievement on April 2, 2014 (photo). Dr. Petrella went on to say that Adam and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Kastler, will be formally recognized at an upcoming Board of Education Meeting.