3rd Grade Teacher Hosts a Mock NFL Draft for Students. She Says It Has ‘Transformed My Classroom’ (Exclusive)

A dedicated teacher at Pinecrest Elementary in Miami-Dade County Public Schools has found a unique way to engage her third-grade students by incorporating a mock NFL draft into her classroom activities.

Mary Crippen, who grew up surrounded by football due to her brothers’ passion for the sport, discovered her own love for football during college. She joined a flag football team in her sorority and later competed at the national level. Her interest further deepened when she met her husband, a devoted Dolphins fan, who introduced her to the excitement of game days.

Bringing her family tradition into her teaching career, Crippen developed a program called NFeLementary, a spin on the NFL, to engage her students in a fun and educational way. Inspired by her mother, who had created her own NFL draft activity for her students, Crippen decided to adapt the idea to her classroom.

Initially starting with tracking the Dolphins’ wins and losses with her students, the program gradually evolved into a full-fledged mock NFL draft project. The students became deeply engaged, forming connections with teams based on mascots, colours, and even team names. Through this activity, Crippen was able to witness her students’ personalities shining through in unexpected ways and foster a sense of camaraderie among them.

As the program expanded, Crippen saw her students’ thirst for knowledge grow. They delved into researching player statistics, making predictions, and immersing themselves in the world of football. The project not only enhanced their academic skills but also taught them valuable life lessons such as sportsmanship, teamwork, and resilience.

The highlight of the program, known as “Draft Day,” is a transformative experience for the students. They engage in negotiating trades, learning important communication skills, and building connections with their classmates. What started as a simple classroom activity has turned into a community-building exercise where every student gets an opportunity to interact with their peers in a meaningful way.

Beyond the academic and social benefits, Crippen notes the impact the program has had on parents as well. Many parents have expressed enthusiasm for the project, with some even getting involved by creating ‘power rankings’ for their children. The sense of community extends beyond the classroom, creating a shared experience that involves both students and their families.

Crippen’s innovative teaching approach has garnered attention from teachers across the country. She has worked with her mother to copyright the curriculum, trademark the name, and create resources for educators interested in implementing a similar program in their classrooms. The success of NFeLementary has reignited the passion for teaching in many educators and has the potential to reach even more students in the future.

Through her dedication to using football as a tool for interactive learning, Mary Crippen has not only transformed her classroom but has also inspired a wave of educators to bring a new level of engagement and excitement to their teaching practices. Her commitment to creating a dynamic and inclusive learning environment serves as a testament to the power of innovative teaching methods in shaping young minds.