How to Write a Cover Letter for a Teaching Position
When you are applying for a teaching position, a great cover letter can be the difference between getting an interview and getting tossed out of the job candidate pool. Because a teacher must be literate and compelling, a cover letter should reflect your personality, enthusiasm and ability to communicate in a professional manner. Avoid form letters and trite phrases, and choose memorable anecdotes or experiences to add life to your cover letter.
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Instructions
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In the upper left-hand corner, include your name and full contact information including email address.
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Below your contact info, list the school or institution's address and the full name and title of the person in charge of hiring. If the person's name is not on the job posting, call the school office and ask for a specific name. Start the cover letter with a personal greeting, such as "Dear Mr. Johnson." In doing so, you will set yourself apart from applicants who use a standard, impersonal "To Whom it May Concern" greeting.
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Begin the first paragraph by explaining why you are writing. Mention the job posting and school by name. If you were referred to the school by a personal contact, include the name of the person and your relationship to give your cover letter an immediate edge.
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Assure the reviewer that your qualifications are up to standard. Close the first paragraph with a sentence that mentions your education, years of teaching, or special certifications that are listed in the job posting. This is particularly important for positions that require an unusual or uncommon background.
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Explain why you would be an asset to the school. In the second paragraph, convince the employer that you have done your research and that you have the capacity to meet their needs. You can mention how you will support the school's goals that have been stated in an annual report, newspaper interview, or public declaration. Where appropriate, use a brief anecdote to support your claims: mention how you brought test scores up by 10 percent, for example, or how you improved attendance records with innovative programs.
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Provide a brief overview of your teaching methodology. Show the school that you are serious about teaching with a short paragraph that talks about your motivations, methods, and style. In this section, don't be afraid to let your personality and enthusiasm shine through.
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Ask for an interview. The third paragraph of your cover letter should be a call to action for the employer, letting them know that you are ready to start the interview process. Be simple and direct, and let the superintendent or principal know the best ways to contact you. You can also promise to call the school to check on the application process in a week or two; if you make such a claim, don't fail to follow up.
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