The art of being cool

So, a coworker was walking down the hallway during passing time when he overheard a couple of middle school boys. [Picture slightly awkward and maybe a little smelly.]

Boy 1: "The first thing you need to know about middle school is that you have to look cool."

Boy 2: (Looks around with a worried look on his face.)

Boy 1: "And the second thing is that you have to act cool."

Boy 2: (Nods in agreement.)

I am not sure that I have this story entirely accurate since I heard it secondhand, but the gist of it is true. And while cute and funny, it also makes me think.

In order to fit in, I need to both look cool and act cool. How does that apply to my new position?

Here's the deal. I am not cool, and I certainly don't look it, but I am definitely interested in being the person that others go to for help. It's like the uncoordinated kid at recess who always gets picked last.

I am screaming, "Pick me! I want to be cool!"

Whether it be demonstrating an instructional strategy, assisting with standard alignment, integrating technology,

co-planning units, analyzing data, co-teaching, etc., etc., I want to be cool enough to partner with fellow teachers.

There are a million ideas floating through my head just waiting to be utilized. Pick me!