How to Write a Cover Letter for a Position in Education

If you are applying for a position in education, then you need to write a dynamic cover letter to accompany your resume. Your cover letter is the first impression that you are making, so it needs to be written well. Your cover letter should communicate what type of education position you are seeking and why you are the right candidate for the job. Here is how to write a cover letter for a position in education.

Things You'll Need

• Business (bond) paper
• Word processing software
• Printer

Instructions

1. Address the letter to the person in charge of applications. Try to find out the name of the person who is coordinating the interview process for the education position. As a last resort, use "Dear Sir or Madam."

2. Identify the position for which you are applying. The first sentence in your first paragraph should communicate what position (or type of position) that you are seeking. Example: "I am interested in applying for the second grade teaching position that you advertised in the Daily Journal."

3. Explain why you are qualified for this position. In one to three sentences, provide a global view of why you would be a good fit for this position. Example: "I have a degree in Education from XXX University and experience in student teaching at the second grade level."

4. Discuss your experience. In your second paragraph, talk about any experience you have that qualifies you for the position. Specifically focus on the positive qualities that you would bring to the position. Example: "I have been working at a day care center for the past two years. By working closely with younger children, I have learned how to balance nurturing with maintaining control of a large group of children."

5. Share other relevant information about yourself that might help you stand out. Example: "I have always loved children and have been successful in motivating them to learn. I was a camp counselor for Camp X for three summers in which I taught groups of children how to swim. I used my creativity to help several children overcome their fear of the water."

6. Close the letter with an invitation to meet. Provide your contact information so that the principal does not have to go looking for it.Example: "I believe that my enthusiasm for teaching children would be a good match for your school. I would welcome an interview at your convenience. You can contact me at (XXX) XXX-XXXX."

7. Sign the letter. End the letter with “Sincerely” and then your first and last name. Be sure to sign the letter.

8. Print your cover letter out on bond paper. A higher quality paper makes a better impression and stands out from the other cover letters.

9. Proofread your cover letter. A single typo can be enough to get your cover letter filed in the trash can. Make sure that your cover letter has no errors before you mail it out.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the cover letter short (no longer than one page).

• Include information in your cover letter that is unique but also qualifies you for a position in education. For example, if you have taught groups of children how to ice skate, then include this information in your cover letter. It shows that you have experience in teaching groups of children but also shares an interesting fact about you that is unlikely to be shared by the other candidates.