#ELBlog #201: Silly Or Cool Looking Cartoon Character?

#ELBlog #201: Silly Or Cool Looking Cartoon Character?
I love the holiday season. From Thanksgiving through December (Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s). People are always so excited to get together, spend time with family, give gifts, etc. It’s also enjoyable to share the spirit…The spirit of joy, warmth, caring, etc.

This is my first year as Principal in the middle school in Port Jervis, NY, so this year I’m experiencing working with a new group of both kids and staff. I’m really enjoying the kids, the staff, and the new environment. The age group of the kids is so unique, 12,13, and 14-year-olds all mixed together. There are lots of opportunities to create amazing experiences for kids. During the time of Thanksgiving to New Year’s I enjoy wearing my holiday sportcoat and my red sneakers. I just felt really good about the look and got a lot of positive feedback.

A young man came up to me on a Friday and said “Mr. Marotta, I got to tell you, you look like a cartoon character in that outfit.” I responded “Really? Like the really cool kind? Like the new hip cartoons? Or one of those where you look really silly?” The kid looked me in the eye, paused, and said “both.” After a high-five, I said “That’s the perfect answer, and exactly the look I’m going for.”

Silly and cool. Is that the perfect combination for middle school? Well I know it’s never the goal to be friends with the kids, it’s certainly ok to be a little silly sometimes. I think modeling school spirit and modeling putting yourself out there with fun outfits is important. I also think it’s contagious. Don’t be afraid to be a little different and have some fun with staff and students during spirit weeks, dress-up days, and during other fun events. Remember, the school leader sets the tone in many ways including dress.

If I can help you in any way don’t hesitate to reach out at @andrewmarotta21 on Twitter.