Cover Letter

Introduction

Administrators view your cover letter as an indication of your enthusiasm for teaching and of your ability to communicate. The best cover letters come alive - that is, they convey something of your personality in a way that your resume generally will not. Cover letters present the opportunity for you to do several things:

• 1. Demonstrate that you are interested in applying to that particular school OR district.

  2. Highlight your strengths as a teacher - and reflect your unique experiences as a teacher.

  3. Express your enthusiasm for teaching your subject, for working with young people and/or for the particular grade level or subject you will teach..

Demonstrate that you are interested in a school or district

Do a little research about that district and include a bit of what you find in your cover letter.

Highlight your strengths

While your resume presents your background in chronological form, your cover letter offers you the opportunity to draw your readers' attention to a couple of your main strengths (preferably as they relate to the expressed philosophy or needs of the distric).

The best cover letters use specifics to back up general statements. These specifics can reflect your unique experiences in the classroom and the strengths they represent:

The point is that your cover letter should emphasize your strengths as a teacher, which are most effectively demonstrated through positive, concrete examples.

Practical Tips

• 1. Keep a record of all correspondence.

  2. The letter should be addressed to a particular individual in the district. If that person is not apparent from the website, call the district office for that person's name and title.

  3. Use simple, direct language and correct grammar.

  4. Use plain bond paper in white, off-white, light beige or light gray. Use the same paper for your cover letters and resumes, and you can use matching envelopes, as well.

  5. Business letters are folded in thirds and mailed in long envelopes, about 9 1/2 inches long.

  6. Have a friend carefully proofread your letters for errors.

  7. Be sure to sign your letters, and make certain your address is plainly visible.

  8. Include your phone number and email address in your closing paragraph.