A Love Story in Kindergarten: Mrs. Benton’s Creative Way of Teaching Q and U
By: Shelia Mader
For more than 30 years, Malone School kindergarten teacher Mrs. Shelia Benton has been turning everyday lessons into unforgettable experiences. Her classroom is a place where imagination and learning go hand in hand, and her students are not just taught, they are fully engaged.
One of her most beloved traditions is the annual “wedding” of the letters Q and U. It is a playful but purposeful way to help young learners understand that these two letters almost always appear together. Rather than simply explaining the rule, Mrs. Benton brings it to life.
This year’s ceremony featured groom John Matthews and bride Clarke Garrett. Retired educator Phyllis Daniels performed the ceremony. The school auditorium was transformed into a wedding venue, complete with a wedding party made up of classmates. The entire kindergarten class took part, and parents, grandparents, and friends filled the seats to witness the special occasion.
The event was more than just adorable. It was memorable. By turning a phonics lesson into a celebration, Mrs. Benton helps her students internalize the concept in a way they will not soon forget. The “marriage” of Q and U becomes something tangible. The children understand that these letters belong together, not because they memorized a rule, but because they experienced it.
Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed a reception with refreshments. Homemade cookies were served, and each of the 20 students received treat bags courtesy of the Jackson County Times newspaper. The smiles in the room made it clear that this was a day the children would talk about long after kindergarten.
The Q and U wedding is just one example of Mrs. Benton’s creativity. In past years, her students have built igloos out of egg cartons as part of hands-on learning projects. Whether she is teaching phonics, science, or seasonal themes, she finds ways to make lessons interactive and meaningful.
Parents often share their appreciation for the care and attention she pours into her classroom. They praise not only her creativity but also the genuine love she shows her students. It is evident in the time she invests, the traditions she maintains, and the confidence she builds in young learners.
For the children fortunate enough to spend their kindergarten year with Mrs. Benton, learning is not just about letters and sounds. It is about connection, celebration, and feeling valued. After three decades in the classroom, she continues to prove that the best lessons are the ones that come from the heart.
