What word did a 10-year-old spell to become NOLA Spelling Bee champ?

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — She’s the best when it comes to spelling.

She is 10-year-old Leya Ismail.

She’s the spelling bee champ of New Orleans, who is now headed to the National Spelling Bee Contest in Washington, D.C.

WGNO Good Morning New Orleans features reporter Bill Wood knows the word that takes her to the top.

Competing against 150 other kids from across the area, she won the New Orleans Regional Spelling Bee and brought home the top trophy.

Leya spelled the word “kilroy”.

It means traveler.

Just like Leya is about to be.

On her way to spelling bee history as the national contest celebrates 100 years.

When asked what the secret to spelling success is, she says:

“You need to work hard but also hope that luck comes your way.”

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