(06/05/06) SPRING LAKE ? Scripps National Spelling Bee champion Kerry Close was greeted by a throng of cheering fellow students upon her return to school Monday.

Close says she?s thrilled with her reception at Tuttle Avenue School. However, she also admits the entire experience has taken somewhat of a toll on her physically. She says she needs to play serious catch up on her sleep once the aftermath of her victory winds down.

Close?s homeroom teacher John Bormann says the champ serves as a good role model for other students at the school. Close spelled the word Ursprache to snag top honors at the bee. Ursprache is German in origin and refers to a parent language.

Related information: New Jersey spellbound by national bee winner from Spring Lake