It took about 15 years for me to figure out that students work hard for teachers they like. They work even harder for the cool teachers.

Some teachers say, “I’m not here to entertain. I’m here to teach.” A long time ago, I said it. This attitude doesn’t impress today’s learners. Even studious kids want cool teachers. So, use these strategies to jettison your stodgy self and get your cool on.

1 – Cool teachers use social media

It’s important for educators to be connected, as it helps them grow professionally. It’s way cooler, though, to use social media in the classroom as an instructional and collaboration tool. Want every student to participate in your class discussion? Conduct your chat on Twitter or Todays Meet. Want to encourage reading? Invite kids to review books on Goodreads. Students love social media. Use it for teaching and learning, and you’ll be well on your way to cool.

2- Cool teachers sometimes look silly

While it may seem contradictory to connect silly and cool, students believe teachers who are willing to be self-deprecating, a little awkward and even silly, in an effort to engage learners, are very cool. If you take yourself too seriously and cling to the “I’m-not-an-entertainer” mentality, students will see you as erudite and will be more likely to shut down. Want an amazing guide to turning silly to cool, check out Dave Burgess’ Teach Like a Pirate.

3 – Cool teachers embrace chaos

Want to be cool tomorrow? Before students arrive, re-arrange your desks or post an eye-popping sign or question. Instruct students to do something noisy as they enter the room or ask them to group themselves any way they wish. Encourage movement. Play loud music. Sit on the floor. Shout (not at them but with them). We live in a chaotic world. Create an environment of “controlled chaos” in your classroom, and feel the cool as it envelops you.

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