Michelle Cooley 

I am beyond excited to be the physical education teacher at the U School. I am new to Philadelphia, but absolutely love this city and the students we serve! I attended Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington and earned my K-12 Health and Physical Education certificate while playing Division 1 volleyball for the Zags. I also earned my masters degree in Kinesiology and national certification to teach Adapted Physical Education from Texas Woman’s University in Denton, Texas.

The U School’s physical education program focuses on a lifetime approach to fitness goal setting, individual and team sports and creating lifelong participants of physical activity. The course teaches leadership skills, team strategies and touches on both new and familiar sports and activities. Students are able to demonstrate new skills and will have the opportunity to teach others about activities that interest them.

I enjoy spending time with my husband and our dog, Cooper. I love to eat, read, travel, play volleyball and work out. I am passionate about the advocacy and rights of individuals with special needs. My brother was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, which has had a significant impact on my outlook on life. He has helped me realize that our circumstances in life do not define who we are - it is our response to the circumstances that does. I am looking forward to an amazing year at the U School and seeing what our students Love, Dream and Do.

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