A Game-Changing Classroom Experience: The Story Behind "Prination"

Interview with Jerry Prina, Social Science teacher at Eureka High School in IL

Ever wondered how whole grade-level games can transform education? At Eureka High School, a unique classroom game called Prination is reshaping how students learn critical thinking, strategy, and teamwork. Teacher and creator of the game, Jerry Prina, has spent over 15 years at Eureka and the last 13 years developing this immersive game, designed to go beyond traditional review exercises. Here’s the story behind Prination, its goals, and why it has become a powerful educational tool.

From Review Games to Strategic Learning

In the early days, Jerry used simple review games to engage his students, aiming to reinforce test material with question-and-answer sessions modeled after shows like Jeopardy. But by his third or fourth year, he began introducing strategy games that went deeper than test prep. The idea evolved into Prination—a dynamic, competitive game with layers of strategy that were less about exams and more about critical thinking.

What is Prination? A Dual Perspective

Prination’s impact can be seen through two lenses: the student’s perspective and the teacher’s perspective.

• From the Student’s Perspective: Prination is a required class activity that doesn’t feel like a typical classroom requirement. Many students, who might otherwise be less motivated in mandatory classes, find themselves invested in this game. Prination encourages students to choose their own roles, create identities, and set strategies, making learning feel less obligatory and more empowering. As Mr. Prina points out, this autonomy helps students feel connected to their own success and gives them a sense of control.

• From the Teacher’s Perspective: For Mr. Prina, Prination is a way to cultivate critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork. Students learn to think ahead, solve problems, and develop strategies. The game is collaborative, with each participant working in teams—a necessary skill in almost any career. By balancing individual contributions with group dynamics, students also discover the importance of sharing responsibility. As Mr. Prina puts it, “You rarely see a job where you don’t have to work with others anymore.”

The Growth of Prination

Since its early days as a simple board game, Prination has grown tremendously, now involving an entire class of approximately 100 sophomores, as well as interested juniors, seniors, and even staff. Over the years, the game expanded to include complex strategies and multiple interwoven games, with more students than ever wanting to participate—even alumni return to take part. Mr. Prina fondly recalls when students filled the classroom and hallway for the chance to make a draft pick, with no grade attached, purely for the love of the game.

The pandemic also prompted Prination to evolve. Moving it online turned a paper-and-pencil format into a web-based experience with spreadsheets and shared Google Docs. While this was a challenge, it ultimately enhanced accessibility, allowing students to engage from any location.

Reactions and Challenges

How do students react to Prination? For some, there’s initial excitement; others feel anxious or indifferent. As they begin to play, most find a personal connection, motivated by a desire to leave their mark on the game. Seeing their names engraved on trophies that Mr. Prina proudly keeps, students take pride in their contributions. Even years later, they can return and see their impact preserved.

But with innovation comes challenges. Mr. Prina has faced scrutiny from administrators who may not fully understand the depth and value of Prination. Evaluations based on brief observations can overlook the game’s long-term benefits. “My biggest challenge is not getting upset in an evaluation year,” he shares. Prination has developed over 13 years through student feedback, constantly adapting to enhance engagement and learning.

Accountability in a Collaborative Game

While Prination thrives on teamwork, it also requires accountability. In cases where students might not pull their weight, a peer feedback system ensures that contributions are fairly assessed. Students are encouraged to form their own teams, reducing issues of apathy and increasing investment in the game’s outcomes. The game even includes a "discrepancy clause" for those concerned about grades, allowing them to write a reflective paragraph to regain lost points—a small yet powerful incentive to stay engaged.

Inspiration Behind Prination

The roots of Prination are twofold. Initially, Mr. Prina drew inspiration from his U.S. history classes. Teaching the late 1800s can be a challenge, so he introduced a game simulating Africa’s division by European powers. Students learned about resources, territories, and economic interests in an interactive way, which soon morphed into Prination’s foundations.

The second inspiration was Mr. Prina's desire to create a space for controversial, thought-provoking discussions often avoided in classrooms. By debating current events and hot topics, students build conflict resolution skills in a monitored setting. “Wouldn’t you rather have kids having those tough conversations being monitored by a teacher?” Mr. Prina asks. Prination provides a safe environment for students to form and discuss their own opinions constructively.

A Final Thought: Learning Through Conflict Resolution

Prination offers students a unique learning experience that goes beyond curriculum and testing. They tackle real-world problems, develop strategies, and learn to work through conflict—preparing them for challenges they’ll face outside the classroom. As Mr. Prina reflects, “That’s what real life is: You get yourself out of one mess after another.”

Prination has become more than a game—it’s a transformative part of the classroom, building skills, resilience, and a lasting sense of community. By blending strategy, debate, and teamwork, Prination gives students the tools to navigate life’s complexities, one game at a time.