NFeLementary: How Teacher Mary Crippen Built the Internets Favorite Class

NFeLementary: Miami Teacher’s Viral Football Curriculum Scores Big with Students

A Miami third-grade teacher has transformed her classroom into a miniature NFL franchise. Mary Crippen’s football-themed curriculum, called NFeLementary, has gone viral on social media. Her innovative teaching method uses the sport to engage students in core academic subjects.

The program has captured the attention of over 500,000 TikTok followers and several NFL teams. According to E! News, Crippen’s approach has led to improved student attendance and engagement.

NFeLementary

From Classroom Tradition to National Program

The concept began simply. Crippen posted the Miami Dolphins’ schedule on her whiteboard. Students tracked wins and losses, earning rewards for victories.

This Monday morning ritual quickly expanded. Students began analyzing player stats, predicting game outcomes, and learning math skills. The program now includes 350 teachers nationwide using the trademarked NFeLementary curriculum.

Life Lessons Beyond the Gridiron

The program’s core mission extends beyond football fandom. Crippen uses on-field events to teach perseverance and accountability. Students learn to handle their own struggles by watching athletes overcome challenges.

This method has proven particularly effective in Florida’s high-stakes third-grade testing environment. The real-world connections help students coach themselves through academic difficulties.

The NFeLementary program demonstrates how creative teaching can tackle student engagement. It turns classroom lessons into a winning game plan for education.

Info at your fingertips

What is NFeLementary?

NFeLementary is a classroom curriculum created by teacher Mary Crippen. It uses NFL football to teach academic subjects and life lessons to elementary students.

How do students participate?

Each student drafts an NFL team at the start of the school year. They then follow that team, tracking stats and learning math, reading, and social studies through football-related activities.

How many teachers use this program?

The program has expanded significantly. Currently, 350 teachers across the country are implementing the NFeLementary curriculum in their own classrooms.

Has the NFL responded to the program?

Yes, several NFL teams have noticed the viral initiative. They have sent game tickets, signed gear, and personalized messages to Crippen’s classroom to show their support.

What happens during the NFL offseason?

The learning continues with adapted activities. The class holds its own NFL Combine for physical education and runs a “snack draft” to maintain engagement until the next season.