Mr. Jacob Cooley is one the only French teacher here at Chelsea High School. The Buzz was lucky enough to get an interview with him and ask some questions. Read below to see what he had to say.

Chelsea buzz: What is your favorite memory of teaching?

Jacob Cooley: Going to the French Convention with the French 2 and 3 students and earning a few “Superior” ratings in the events we entered.

CB: What is the most challenging thing about being a teacher?

JC: The lack of sufficient planning and grading time. With 4 levels of French to teach, it’s difficult to do everything I need to do within a 50-minute planning period.

CB: What do you know now that you wish you knew when you began teaching?

JC: “What you allow in August, you have to tolerate in May,” which means that setting your standards early in the year is important.

CB: What is one thing on your bucket list? Why?

JC: Traveling to Japan or the Philippines. I’ve been all over the Western hemisphere and Europe, but I’d like to see the East.

CB: What would your students be surprised to find out about you?

JC: I’ve traveled to a dozen countries but I’ve never been to France or another country where French is even spoken.

CB: What is the hardest lesson you learned growing up? Is there any advice from that lesson you can give?

JC: When you need to do something creative, don’t wait for motivation or inspiration. Instead, develop the discipline to work without them.

CB: What’s your favorite quote?

JC: “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.” – Marcus Aurelius

CB: What is your dream vacation?

JC: Barcelona, Spain

CB: What high school did you go to?

JC: Pelham High School

CB: If you could have any superpower what would it be?

JC: Time travel

CB: Do you like savory foods or sweet foods better?

JC: Savory

CB: What is your favorite movie?

JC: Arrival