Ryan Reynolds

Vibrant “Hughs”

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Although the upcoming Deadpool 3 movie is a loooong way from its release in theaters, fans are still excited for any news.

The BIGGEST reveal came recently with a sneak peek photo of the film’s two stars, Ryan Reynolds (Deadpool) and Hugh Jackman (Wolverine). Check it out!

Understandably, the BIG DEAL is that for the first time in two decades of movies, Hugh Jackman’s attire finally bears close resemblance Wolverine’s comic book costume. Nice!

Before, many fans believed it impossible to pull off a nearly all-yellow, non-ugly outfit in live-action cinema. But I admit, Hugh’s golden duds look pretty good. Chalk it up to movie magic!

This is not the first time we’ve used Hugh Jackman as a launching point to discuss teachers and teaching. Now in Part Three of our “Hughology” (trademark, 2023) we’ll use the charming Wolverine actor to reflect on teaching wardrobes.

We’ve also talked before about teacher outfits based on superhero icons, including both what to (or not to) wear in the classroom, and when (and how) to undergo an “extreme makeover,” which is more than just appearances.

Now let’s ask another important question:

Should teachers wear yellow?

Ready for the answer?

It depends.

Is yellow part of your school colors? Do you root for the the “Yellowjackets,” or “Golden Lions” or “Wheat Shockers?” If yes, then by all means, go for it. Especially on game days. Who cares if yellow is a bad match for your complexion? Show your team spirit!

All teachers can still wear yellow, no matter their school’s mascot. In fact, yellow is a common color recommendation for first day outfits. Both style and teaching websites give their approval (and examples, such as below).

You can find additional resources at websites like This Stylish Teacher, The Styled Teacher, Real Men Real Style, and more. (Keen observers will note Mr. Harrington wearing his golden jacket for the Midtown School of Science and Technology Academic Decathlon Team!)

Beyond trendy styles, there’s actual research to support adding a ray of sunshine via your threads. Fashion psychologists note how the color yellow conveys optimism, brightness, and energy. These are all great things to share in the classroom, on the first day of school and beyond.

A little bit of yellow goes a long way, however. A teacher with too much brightness and energy can overwhelm a class, whether by what they wear or how they act. Be purposeful and judicious in your appearance and behavior.

For further superhero inspiration, consider how many of the following heroes brandish yellow–sometimes a bit, sometimes a bunch–on their costumes. Instead of insignias or capes, teachers can add their own bright splashes with a necktie, scarf, jewelry, and more.

If you want to learn more about fashion psychology and superhero costumes, there’s a super-neat four-part feature at Comics Alliance about different color combinations, including those shared above.

And read more about teacher attire AND teacher actions in my new book, Teaching Is for Superheroes! – NOW available anywhere online where you find GOOD BOOKS! Find out the latest at www.TeachingIsForSuperheroes.com!

(Note the savvy use of yellow on the cover – just enough to catch your attention!)

Who’s Your Hugh?

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This fall, Marvel movie fans got a fun update on the film Deadpool 3, straight from Deadpool actor Ryan Reynolds himself:

The BIG reveal comes at the END of this short announcement.

Not only is Deadpool joining to the “Marvel Cinematic Universe.” Appearing with him is Wolverine, played by long-time Logan, Hugh Jackman (when he’s done brushing his teeth).

Fans were so excited by the news, the two actors quickly posted a second video (“Part Hugh”) to share more details (?). Mostly, they acknowledge potential snags due to prior storylines (spoiler alerts). And they stir up more speculation, obscured by the best ’80s pop song ever:

With Deadpool 3 not scheduled to arrive until September 2024, we all have plenty of time to predict how everything will work out. (My bet is any mix-ups get an easy pass thanks to the blooming “Multiverse.”)

Until then, TEACHERS should take a moment to consider the following question:

“Who is YOUR Hugh?”

We’ve talked before about sidekicks in schools, in particular, finding fellow teachers to mentor and lead. Who is your “Robin?”

Likewise, every teacher should also find a colleague that can mentor them. Such mentorships can function through structured programs or professional development. Or, they may occur in a more organic, or informal manner. Who is your “Batman?”

From World’s Finest #1 (2022). Check it out!

In addition to mentors and mentees, teachers can form powerful relationships with colleagues they regard as “equals.” These pairings don’t have to be the same rank or expertise, or have identical job descriptions. In fact, such partnerships are most beneficial when each party brings different strengths and personalities.

Sort of like Wolverine and Deadpool.

Over decades of comics (and lore), these two anti-heroes haven’t always gotten along. In fact, they try to kill each other quite often. You can read an interesting history of their “prickly relationship,” summarized by the folks at Den of Geek.

Teachers, do you have a “prickly relationship” with any of your colleagues? Don’t dismiss them due to a handful of disagreements. Instead, consider how you can work together–or at least work off of each other–to both become better.

Every teacher needs a Robin to mentor. And every teacher needs a Batman to mentor them.

We also need a Hugh to keep us sharp. Who’s yours?