If you know some of his special interests, find out more about them and ASK him questions! People loosen up when asked a question about a special passion of theirs.
The easiest way to talk to this guy would be to find a common interest that you can talk about. Do you haver a class together or similar interest in music? Talk about something you have in common can lead to more conversation and maybe a date!
Well if you talk to him I bet he will love it! I used to be a shy guy and I always wanted a girl to talk to me.... LOL Maybe you can start off by asking about homework (if you are a student) or borrowing a pencil~