This week’s Academic Spotlight shines on Lansing Elementary kindergarten teacher Jordan Fuller and a simple but powerful activity that had her students smiling, moving, and learning all at once. Mrs. Fuller recently wrapped up a round of Sight Word Bingo with her kindergarteners, and it was clear this was more than just a game. It was engaging instruction paired with great classroom culture.
Mrs. Fuller shared that she chose the activity because her students have been working hard on their sight words all year.
“They’re doing so well that they can decode and remember, so I did this as a fun review before we add more sight words. This will help it stick.”
That mindset alone shows a lot of wisdom. Taking time to slow down, review, and make sure students really master a skill before moving on is something you usually see from veteran teachers, not someone in their first year.
The best part was the kids were having so much fun!
“They love Bingo way more than I thought they would!” Mrs. Fuller said with a laugh.
You could feel the excitement in the room as students listened closely, scanned their boards, and celebrated each other’s success. Learning was happening, but it didn’t feel heavy or forced. It simply felt like they were playing a game.
What really stood out was Mrs. Fuller’s calm, steady presence throughout the activity. Kindergarteners are energetic, curious, and sometimes a little squirrely, which is exactly how five- and six-year-olds should be. Even when the volume crept up, she handled it with kindness and confidence. Her classroom routines were clear, her expectations were consistent, and her students responded because they knew what was expected of them.
Near the end of the game, Mrs. Fuller paused for a quick but important conversation. She talked with students about how to react if they did not win. She reminded them that it is okay to feel disappointed, but it is not okay to throw a fit. Together, they all took a deep breath and reset. It was a small moment that carried a big message. She was teaching much more than sight words. She was teaching self-control, empathy, and how to handle big feelings, which are life skills these students will carry far beyond kindergarten.
The student quotes say it all:
Salem, who happened to be celebrating his birthday that day, shared, “I liked today because you can earn prizes if you get a bingo.”
Lennon said, “I won sight word bingo, so Mrs. Fuller drew a heart that smells nice on my hand. I love the smell!”
And Ivy summed it up perfectly. “I love Mrs. Fuller’s class because we always have fun and play games when we learn.”
For a first-year teacher, Mrs. Fuller runs her classroom with the confidence, calm, and care of a seasoned vet. She understands that strong routines matter, that review/spiraling is essential, and that learning should be something kids enjoy. Most importantly, her students feel safe, valued, and excited to be in her room each day.
Thank you, Mrs. Fuller, for creating a classroom where learning sticks, fun is encouraged, and kindness leads the way. Lansing is lucky to have you.
