Earlier in the year, teachers received an unusual request from Roosevelt STEM teacher Delia Gietzen—she needed photos, favorite things, and a few fun facts from every staff member. At the time, it raised eyebrows and sparked curiosity. Now, the mystery is solved: all that information was used to create faculty trading cards, and the final result has been an absolute hit with students!
Roosevelt’s 3rd grade launched the schoolwide trading card event a few weeks ago, and excitement has spread rapidly throughout the building. Students have been collecting cards from past teachers, custodians, cafeteria staff, administrators, and everyone in between.
To earn the coveted teacher and staff cards, students may have to ask the magic question: “How may I earn your card?” That’s when the fun begins. Staff members have designed all kinds of creative challenges—singing an ’80s song, completing a coloring page with a short essay on the back, searching for hidden cards in library books, earning one of each “item card,” naming a Pokémon, and many more imaginative tasks.
The trading scene has already produced some standout moments. Roosevelt currently has one Legendary card in rotation after Miss Ashley’s visit last week, and it’s become one of the most sought-after cards in the school. Custodian Mr. Doug handed out his entire card supply on Custodians Day, so his card is now only available through strategic trading. Some staff members have even autographed their cards, transforming otherwise common cards into valuable collectibles.
The trading card initiative has brought joy, creativity, and a bit of friendly competition to Roosevelt. Students are fully engaged—eager to earn new cards, complete challenges, and participate in trades with classmates.
