Teachers are buzzing! Not because it’s the end of the school year (although that creates plenty of buzz, too!). Rather, one of our own, Jamal Roberts, a Physical Education teacher from Crestwood Elementary in Meridian, Mississippi, just WON Season 23 of American Idol!
Can we hear a HOORAY?!
Jamal’s victory sealed the deal on Sunday, May 18th, 2025, and earned him $250,000 in prize money. Talk about hitting all the right notes! From explaining the Pythagorean Theorem to teaching the science of reading, teachers have many skills and talents, so many in fact, that it comes as no surprise they can win a singing competition.
Like Jamal, other teachers have found success as game show contestants. It seems the wit, wisdom, and determination that motivates educators in the classroom also translates into winning players. See what games other teachers have played (#winning!) below:
The 1% Club
Remember how your favorite teacher always seemed to know the answer to everything? Well, it turns out that encyclopedic knowledge pays off! High School science teacher Nathan Cardin proved this by winning big on “The 1% Club” game show. We’re not surprised – after all, they’re used to explaining complex scientific concepts with ease!
Jeopardy!
Teacher Meggie Kwait made a “daring wager” of $18 to win $50k on Jeopardy! It just goes to show that sometimes, it’s not the size of the bet, but the brains behind it. We’ll take “Teacher Winners” for $2000, Ken!
The Floor
As an assistant principal in Whitehouse, Ohio, Terry Tensel is sometimes referred to as the “Whitehouse Educator.” Finding fame for his blue shark shirt and his knowledge in the category “Bodies of Water,” Terry is definitely not all wet, as he did well on The Floor in February!
Wheel of Fortune
Karen Binge, a teacher at Tustin Ranch Elementary School for 34 years, faced losing $70,000 trying to solve an “impossible puzzle” on that game show with the spinner. It takes guts to stand under the lights, guess the riddle, and win (or lose) your fortune in front of the world!
Squid Game: The Challenge
Garfield Elementary School PE teacher (another PE teacher like Jamal Roberts!) Justin Keyes participated in the hit Netflix show Squid Game: The Challenge. For those who prefer their game shows with a little more adrenaline—wow!—talk about teaching under pressure! We’re pretty sure managing a classroom on a Monday morning seems easy in comparison.
These stories are just a few examples of the incredible range of talents teachers possess. When not teaching life skills to students, they’re winning record deals, prize money, and proving their knowledge extends far beyond the classroom!
So, how can you use games for teaching and learning in the classroom?
Using Games for Teaching and Learning in the Classroom
Beyond the “fame” that comes with integrating games into teaching and learning, games boost engagement, provide instant feedback, create a sense of accomplishment, and make learning fun! Here are some ideas for gamifying learning for your students:
- Process for Implementing Games: Before introducing a new game in the classroom, identify any potential challenges and concerns, and clearly define the objectives for your students.
- Levels and Quests: Students complete one level (or quest) after another. Each brings new challenges and ideas, giving them a clear path and a feeling of accomplishment
- Interactive Activities: Use tools like online quizzes, interactive whiteboards, and educational apps that already have game-like features
- Collaborative Games: Design group activities that require teamwork and communication like: Board games, classroom escape rooms, or digital platforms where students work together to solve problems
By bringing in gamification and interactive elements, teachers can transform classrooms into lively, engaging spaces.
AND, remember, when you see a teacher, they might be a superstar in disguise, ready to conquer the next big challenge, whether it’s a pop song, a trivia board, or an “impossible puzzle”!
About the Author
Susanne Leslie is a Professional Learning Specialist at Teaching Channel. She holds a B.A. in Sociology and a Master’s in Education. As a former parent educator, Susanne’s specialty is Culture, Wellness, and Early Childhood instruction. In her current role, she writes courses and content, and is an enthusiastic advocate for play and time outdoors as the best teaching tools.
Fun Fact: Susanne has jumped out of two (perfectly good) airplanes!
