writing a cover letter in education

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25 Teacher Cover Letters Examples To Help You Get Hired

Your guide to a killer cover letter that will get you that interview.

Whether you are sending out resumes hoping to land your first teaching job or looking to shift to a new school or district, one fact remains the same: All the best credentials, experience, and passion will go unnoticed without a strong cover letter. The main rule? Sell yourself the way a publicist would. Cover letters aren’t a time for modesty. They’re a time to highlight your accomplishments and make your passion for teaching known. Below you’ll find our tips for creating the best cover letter possible and our top teacher cover letter and CV examples.

3 top tips for crafting a teacher CV or cover letter:

Keep it short and sweet..

You’ve only got about 30 seconds to capture a hiring director’s attention, so start with what we call “the elevator pitch.” Imagine you have the time between the elevators closing on one floor and opening again on another floor to sell yourself. Instead of rehashing everything on your resume, use the space to craft a paragraph or two that will convince them you are a standout candidate and are worth moving on to the next step.

Emphasize why you’re a great match.

Read the job description and find the overlap between the skills you bring to the table and the skills they need. If the job description calls for certain qualities or uses specific language, repeat them in your cover letter! The ultimate goal for your cover letter is to say, “You’ve got a problem? I’m the ideal person to solve it.” Be professional and use concrete examples.

Individualize!

Tailor each and every cover letter to fit the specific school, district, and job for which you’re applying. Research the school and its culture. That way, you can address their expectations and also use specific examples of achievements in your history to show why you’re the right candidate for the position.

Top teacher cover letter examples:

1. first-time teacher.

This letter is friendly and enthusiastic. It uses concrete examples and experiences related to student teaching while showcasing exactly why the applicant wants to become a teacher.

Learn more: First-time teacher at LiveAbout

2. Another first-time teacher example

This version of a cover letter calls out the specific skills the applicant has and hopes to bring to the table.

Learn more: Another first-time teacher example at OLAS

3. Experienced elementary teacher

Not every teacher stays in their job until retirement. If you’re looking for a new position, your cover letter should clearly state your experience. This example also makes it obvious that the candidate researched the new district and discusses why she would be excited to join. The candidate also includes references at the bottom of the cover letter.

Learn more: Experienced elementary teacher at Monster ADVERTISEMENT

4. Another experienced elementary teacher example

It doesn’t hurt to have additional examples! This teacher cover letter clearly showcases the school’s goals and addresses how this teacher specifically can help. She did her research!

Learn more: Another experienced elementary teacher at LiveAbout

5. Summer school teacher

As school lets out for summer, many teachers still need to earn an income. With competition tight, this cover letter stands out as the candidate states her qualifications as well as her ability to train other staff members.

Learn more: Summer school teacher at Cover Letters and Resume

6. Assistant teacher

With this letter, the applicant took a slightly different approach. The letter breaks down the most relevant accomplishments into bullet points. Those will jump out at the hiring manager, who will likely scan through a ton of applications.

Learn more: Assistant teacher at LiveCareer

7. Special education teacher

This letter is similar to a standard teacher cover letter, yet it also stresses the specific qualifications and experiences of a special ed teacher. For example, this candidate included how they modified the curriculum to meet the needs of a wide range of learners. In this particular cover letter example, the teacher was looking to move into a leadership role, so this serves as a template for someone looking to transition into management as well.

Learn more: Special education teacher at JobHero

8. School guidance counselor

This cover letter emphasizes the applicant’s academic achievements, especially with regard to the psychology education required for many counselor positions. It also talks about the characteristics that make this person the ideal candidate for this position.

Learn more: School guidance counselor at Great Sample Resume

9. Another school guidance counselor example

We liked this cover letter because it pulls specific metrics that are not in the resume—including the number of students the candidate worked with and the funding obtained for special needs programs.

Learn more: School guidance counselor at Zety

10. Library media specialist

This cover letter oozes confidence! As with any specialist position, the candidate hones in on how her specific skills and background make her qualified for this role.

Learn more: Library media specialist at LiveCareer

11. High school English teacher

This cover letter covers a lot of ground. It points out the candidate’s strengths for teaching and assessing knowledge in the specific subject. It also presents the special techniques the candidate uses to teach students at the high school level.

Learn more: High school English teacher at Great Sample Resume

12. Technology teacher

Taking a very professional approach to writing a cover letter shows that the contender is serious. This letter points out the specific skills that best prove why this candidate is a great fit for the position.

Learn more: Technology teacher at LiveCareer

13. Music teacher

A music teacher requires knowledge of multiple instruments and a love of music and music theory. This cover letter showcases the candidate’s background and why they feel music is an important part of the education experience.

Learn more: Music teacher at Best Sample Resume

14. Drama teacher

Drama teachers often go above and beyond just teaching a class. They host auditions and rehearsals for after-school productions. This cover letter shows the candidate’s knowledge of curriculum, directing a show, and even marketing efforts.

Learn more: Drama teacher at Great Sample Resume

15. Foreign language teacher

Foreign language teachers need to display their knowledge of the particular language as well as showcase how well they can immerse students in the culture. This cover letter discusses the teacher’s plans to incorporate curriculum as well as help facilitate the induction of students into the German Honor Society.

Learn more: Foreign language teacher at JobHero

16. Sports coach

This cover letter has a terrific opening line that sets the candidate apart from the get-go. It also clearly covers the candidate’s qualifications, from knowledge and experience to attitude and philosophy. This cover letter example also works well for PE teachers.

Learn more: Sports coach at JobHero

17. ESL teacher

Teaching English as a second language obviously requires a distinct skill set. This cover letter showcases key communication skills and lets the hiring director know the specific language fluency.

Learn more: ESL teacher at LiveCareer

18. Math teacher

Touching on the highlights of their resume without rehashing it completely (who wants to read something twice?), this candidate points out their qualifications and certifications as well as their versatility in teaching different types of students.

Learn more: Math teacher at A+ Resumes for Teachers

19. Pre-K teacher

Teaching pre-K takes patience, creativity, and flexibility. This cover letter effectively highlights the candidate’s communication and problem-solving skills as well as the personal qualities that make them great at their job.

Learn more: Pre-K teacher at LiveCareer

20. Business teacher

This cover letter provides excellent background about the teacher in a way that’s appropriate for business. It shares the necessary information clearly and concisely.

Learn more: Business teacher at LiveCareer

21. International school teacher

Working at an international school requires a certain skill set, and this letter highlights the teacher’s language skills as well as their ability to create effective lessons on relevant topics while providing students with the support they need to succeed.

Learn more: International school teacher at LiveCareer

22. Head teacher cover letter

Serving as a head teacher involves a unique blend of leadership and innovation. This cover letter showcases the candidate’s exceptional communication and leadership skills, essential for coordinating with staff, students, and stakeholders to cultivate a thriving educational environment.

Learn more: Head teacher cover letter example at QwikResume

23. Kindergarten teacher

A kindergarten teacher plays a foundational role in a child’s educational journey, blending creativity with core educational principles. This cover letter highlights the candidate’s proficiency in developing engaging lesson plans and materials tailored to young learners, ensuring the fundamentals of various subjects are delivered in a manner that is both enjoyable and educational.

Learn more: Kindergarten teacher at Kickresume

24. Secondary teacher

Secondary teachers help shape the young minds of students as they transition into adulthood. This cover letter exemplifies the candidate’s adeptness in crafting comprehensive lesson plans and teaching materials that cater to the diverse needs of teens, ensuring that the curriculum resonates with their evolving interests and capabilities.

Learn more: Secondary teacher at Resumaker

25. Art teacher

An art teacher embodies the intersection of creativity and education, nurturing students’ artistic talents and encouraging their expressive capabilities. This cover letter highlights the candidate’s proficiency in designing stimulating lesson plans that explore a wide range of artistic mediums and techniques, from traditional painting and drawing to digital art forms.

Learn more: Art teacher at Resume Genius

Do you have more great teacher cover letter examples? Share them in our We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, check out the most common teacher interview questions and suggestions for how to answer them., you might also like.

Free Teacher Resume Template and Tips, Plus 21 Teacher Resume Examples

Make a great first impression! Continue Reading

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How to Write a Education Cover Letter (With Example)

Learn to create an effective education cover letter with our step-by-step guide. Gain essential tips and see a detailed example to help you write a professional cover letter tailored to the education field.

Writing a cover letter for an education job is a big step in getting the position you want. A good cover letter can make a big difference when you're trying to get a job in a school or other learning place. It's your chance to show why you're the right person for the job before you even meet anyone.

A cover letter for an education job is different from other types of cover letters. It needs to show your passion for teaching and your skills in helping students learn. This letter is where you can talk about your teaching style, your past successes, and why you want to work at that specific school or organization.

In this article, we'll talk about how to write a great cover letter for an education job. We'll go over what to include, how to make it sound good, and what mistakes to avoid. We'll also give you an example to help you understand better. By the end, you'll know how to write a cover letter that gets noticed and helps you land the education job you want.

Remember, your cover letter is often the first thing a school or hiring manager sees. It's your chance to make a good first impression and show why you're the best choice for the job. A well-written cover letter can open doors and get you interviews, so it's worth taking the time to do it right.

Education Cover Letter Example

Dear Mr. Caleb Wade,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Education position at Pearson. As an experienced and passionate educator, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to Pearson's mission of empowering learners worldwide.

With a background in education and a deep commitment to fostering student growth, I believe I would be a valuable asset to your team. Throughout my career, I have developed innovative teaching strategies, implemented technology-driven learning solutions, and consistently improved student outcomes. My experience aligns perfectly with Pearson's reputation for delivering cutting-edge educational resources and services.

I am particularly drawn to Pearson's focus on digital learning and adaptive technologies. My proficiency in integrating educational technology into curriculum design and instruction would allow me to hit the ground running in this role. Additionally, my strong communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams would enable me to contribute to Pearson's collaborative work environment.

I am impressed by Pearson's commitment to accessibility and inclusion in education. This aligns with my personal philosophy of ensuring that all students, regardless of their background or learning needs, have access to high-quality educational experiences. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to Pearson's initiatives in this area and helping to create more inclusive learning materials and environments.

My adaptability and eagerness to stay current with educational trends and best practices make me well-suited to thrive in Pearson's dynamic and innovative culture. I am confident that my passion for education, combined with my skills and experience, would make me a valuable addition to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my qualifications align with Pearson's needs and to learn more about how I can contribute to your organization's continued success in shaping the future of education.

Ronald Watkins

How to Write & Format a Cover Letter Header

The header of your education cover letter sets the tone for your application and provides essential contact information. It's the first thing a hiring manager sees, so it's crucial to format it professionally and include accurate details.

Contact Information

Begin your header with your full name, followed by your mailing address, phone number, and email address. Ensure your email address is professional and appropriate for job applications.

Include the current date on which you're sending the letter. This helps the recipient keep track of when the application was received.

Recipient's Information

Next, add the recipient's details. If possible, address the letter to a specific person rather than using a generic salutation. Include their name, title, school or organization name, and mailing address.

Subject Line

Consider adding a clear subject line that states the position you're applying for. This helps the reader immediately understand the purpose of your letter.

By crafting a well-organized header, you demonstrate attention to detail and professionalism from the outset. This sets a positive tone for the rest of your cover letter and increases the likelihood that your application will be given serious consideration.

Greeting Your Potential Employer

After crafting a professional header for your education cover letter, the next crucial element is the greeting. This is your first opportunity to make a personal connection with the hiring manager or school administrator.

Research the Recipient

Take the time to find out the name of the person who will be reading your cover letter. This shows initiative and attention to detail. Check the job posting, school website, or call the institution directly to get this information.

Use a Professional Salutation

Once you have the recipient's name, use a formal greeting such as "Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name]:" If you're unable to find a specific name, opt for a general greeting like "Dear Hiring Manager:" or "Dear [School Name] Admissions Committee:"

Avoid Outdated or Overly Casual Greetings

Steer clear of outdated phrases like "To Whom It May Concern" or overly casual greetings like "Hey there!" These can come across as impersonal or unprofessional in an education setting.

Be Mindful of Gender Neutrality

If you're unsure about the recipient's gender or preferred title, it's best to use their full name, such as "Dear Taylor Smith:" This approach is both respectful and inclusive.

Remember, the greeting sets the tone for your entire letter, so make it count by being professional, personalized, and polite.

Introducing Yourself in a Cover Letter

The introduction of your education cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression and capture the reader's attention. This opening paragraph should be concise, engaging, and tailored to the specific teaching position or educational role you're applying for.

Begin by expressing your enthusiasm for the position and briefly mentioning how you learned about the opportunity. Next, provide a brief overview of your qualifications and experience that make you an ideal candidate for the role. This can include your educational background, teaching certifications, or relevant work experience.

Consider highlighting a key achievement or skill that aligns with the job requirements. This will help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your value to the institution. Remember to keep your introduction focused and avoid repeating information that will be covered in detail later in your cover letter.

Lastly, end your introduction with a statement that bridges to the main body of your letter, indicating what you'll discuss in more detail. This creates a smooth transition and encourages the reader to continue reading about your qualifications and experiences.

By crafting a compelling introduction, you set the tone for the rest of your cover letter and increase your chances of making a lasting impression on potential employers in the education sector.

Strong Example

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

As a passionate and dedicated educator with over 5 years of experience in fostering student growth and academic excellence, I am thrilled to apply for the [Position] role at [School Name]. Your institution's commitment to innovative teaching methods and holistic student development aligns perfectly with my own educational philosophy and professional goals.

Why is this a strong example?

This is a strong cover letter introduction for several reasons. First, it immediately establishes the applicant's relevant experience and enthusiasm for the field. The phrase 'passionate and dedicated educator' shows genuine interest in the profession. Mentioning '5 years of experience' quantifies their background, giving the hiring manager a clear idea of their level of expertise. The introduction also demonstrates knowledge of the school by referencing its commitment to innovative teaching and holistic development, which shows the applicant has done their research. Furthermore, by aligning the school's values with their own philosophy, the applicant creates a connection and implies they would be a good cultural fit. The language is professional yet engaging, striking a balance between formality and personality. Overall, this introduction effectively grabs attention, highlights qualifications, and sets a positive tone for the rest of the letter.

Weak Example

To whom it may concern, I am writing to apply for the teaching position at your school. I have always wanted to be a teacher and I think I would be good at it. I graduated from college last year and I'm looking for my first job. I hope you will consider my application.

Why is this a weak example?

This is a weak cover letter introduction for several reasons. First, it uses the generic 'To whom it may concern,' which shows a lack of effort in researching the specific recipient. Second, it fails to grab the reader's attention or demonstrate enthusiasm for the role. The language is vague and uninspiring, with phrases like 'I think I would be good at it' lacking confidence and specificity. Additionally, it focuses on the applicant's needs rather than what they can offer the school. The mention of being a recent graduate looking for a first job may also inadvertently highlight inexperience. A strong introduction should be tailored to the specific position, showcase enthusiasm, and immediately highlight relevant qualifications or experiences that make the applicant stand out.

Writing the Body of Your Cover Letter

The body of your education cover letter is where you can showcase your qualifications, experience, and passion for teaching. This section should expand on the key points mentioned in your introduction and provide specific examples that demonstrate your suitability for the position.

Highlight Your Relevant Experience

Begin by discussing your teaching experience, including any student teaching, internships, or volunteer work. Focus on achievements and responsibilities that align with the job requirements.

Showcase Your Skills

Emphasize the skills that make you an effective educator, such as classroom management, curriculum development, or use of educational technology. Provide concrete examples of how you've applied these skills in real-world situations.

Demonstrate Your Knowledge

Show your understanding of current educational trends, methodologies, and best practices. This demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and staying current in the field.

Express Your Passion

Convey your enthusiasm for education and your dedication to student success. Explain why you're drawn to this particular school or district and how you can contribute to their mission.

Connect Your Background to the Position

Relate your experiences and skills directly to the requirements outlined in the job posting. This shows that you've done your research and understand the specific needs of the position.

Remember to keep your cover letter body concise and focused, typically no more than two or three paragraphs. Each paragraph should have a clear purpose and contribute to building a compelling case for why you're the ideal candidate for the position.

As a recent graduate from XYZ University with a Bachelor's degree in Education, I am excited to apply for the Elementary School Teacher position at ABC Elementary School. Throughout my academic career and student teaching experiences, I have developed a passion for creating engaging, inclusive learning environments that foster student growth and achievement.

During my student teaching placement at DEF Elementary, I successfully implemented differentiated instruction strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities. I created and executed lesson plans aligned with state standards, incorporating technology and hands-on activities to enhance student engagement. My ability to build positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues contributed to a 15% improvement in overall class performance.

I am particularly drawn to ABC Elementary's commitment to innovative teaching methods and emphasis on social-emotional learning. Your school's values align perfectly with my teaching philosophy, which focuses on nurturing the whole child and preparing students for future success. I am eager to contribute my enthusiasm, creativity, and dedication to your team and help shape the minds of tomorrow's leaders.

This is a strong example of a cover letter body for an Education position because it effectively demonstrates the candidate's qualifications, experiences, and enthusiasm for the role. The content is tailored to the specific job and school, showing that the applicant has done their research. It highlights relevant skills and experiences, such as implementing differentiated instruction and creating engaging lesson plans, while also providing a concrete example of success (15% improvement in class performance). The letter also connects the candidate's teaching philosophy with the school's values, demonstrating a good fit for the position. The writing is clear, concise, and professional, effectively conveying the applicant's passion for teaching and potential value to the school.

I am writing to apply for the teaching position at your school. I have a degree in education and I like working with kids. I think I would be a good fit for your school because I am passionate about teaching. I have some experience from my student teaching and I am eager to start my career. Please consider me for this position.

This is a weak example of a Cover Letter Body for several reasons. Firstly, it's overly generic and lacks specific details about the applicant's qualifications, skills, or experiences. The language used is casual and uninspiring ('I like working with kids'), which doesn't convey professionalism or enthusiasm. There's no mention of the school's specific needs or how the applicant's skills align with them. The example also fails to provide concrete examples of teaching achievements or unique attributes that would set the applicant apart. Additionally, it doesn't demonstrate knowledge about the school or its values, which is crucial in education-related applications. A stronger letter would include specific teaching methodologies, examples of successful classroom experiences, and how the applicant's approach aligns with the school's mission or curriculum.

How to Close Your Cover Letter

To conclude your education cover letter effectively, a strong closing is essential. This final section should leave a lasting impression and inspire the reader to take action.

Reiterate Your Interest

Briefly restate your enthusiasm for the position and the school or institution. This reinforces your motivation and commitment.

Call to Action

Politely express your desire for an interview or further discussion. Indicate your availability and willingness to provide additional information if needed.

Express Gratitude

Thank the reader for their time and consideration. This shows professionalism and courtesy.

Formal Sign-off

End with a professional closing such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name.

Include your phone number and email address for easy follow-up, even if they're already on your resume.

Remember, your closing should be concise yet impactful, leaving the reader with a positive impression of your candidacy. Keep it professional, confident, and courteous to maximize your chances of securing an interview.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [School Name]'s commitment to educational excellence. I look forward to discussing how my passion for teaching, innovative instructional methods, and dedication to student success can benefit your school community. Please feel free to contact me at [phone number] or [email address] to arrange a meeting. I appreciate your time and consideration, and I hope to speak with you soon about joining your exceptional team of educators.

This is a strong cover letter closing for several reasons. First, it expresses gratitude and enthusiasm, which demonstrates professionalism and genuine interest in the position. It specifically mentions the school's commitment to educational excellence, showing that the applicant has researched the institution. The closing also summarizes key strengths (passion for teaching, innovative methods, dedication to student success) that align with educational goals. It provides clear contact information and expresses a desire for further discussion, indicating proactiveness. The language is polite, confident, and forward-looking, leaving a positive final impression. Overall, this closing effectively reinforces the applicant's qualifications and enthusiasm while graciously concluding the letter.

I hope you will consider me for this position. Thank you for your time. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

This closing is weak for several reasons. First, it lacks enthusiasm and fails to make a lasting impression. The language is generic and could be used for any job application, showing no specific interest in the education field. It also doesn't reiterate the candidate's qualifications or express eagerness to contribute to the school or institution. The phrase 'I hope you will consider me' sounds passive and uncertain, rather than confident. Additionally, there's no call to action or suggestion of follow-up, which misses an opportunity to proactively engage with the employer. A stronger closing would reaffirm the candidate's passion for education, summarize key qualifications, and express enthusiasm about the potential to discuss the position further.

Cover Letter FAQs for Education

What is the ideal format and length for an education cover letter.

An education cover letter should typically be one page long, consisting of 3-4 paragraphs. Use a professional font like Arial or Calibri, 11-12 point size, with 1-inch margins. Start with your contact information, followed by the date and the employer's details. Include a salutation, opening paragraph, 1-2 body paragraphs highlighting your qualifications, a closing paragraph, and a professional sign-off.

What key information should I include in my education cover letter?

Your education cover letter should include your relevant qualifications, teaching experience, specific skills related to education, and any notable achievements. Highlight your teaching philosophy, classroom management style, and how you engage students. Also, mention your familiarity with current educational technologies and methodologies, and express your enthusiasm for the specific role and institution.

How can I make my education cover letter stand out?

To make your cover letter stand out, tailor it to the specific job and school district. Research the school's values and incorporate them into your letter. Use specific examples of your teaching successes and student outcomes. Showcase your unique teaching methods or innovative classroom ideas. Finally, demonstrate your passion for education and your commitment to student success.

Should I address any gaps in my employment history in my education cover letter?

If you have significant gaps in your employment history, it's best to briefly address them in your cover letter. Be honest and positive, focusing on any relevant skills or experiences you gained during that time. For example, if you took time off for further education or to raise a family, mention how these experiences have enhanced your ability to relate to students or improved your teaching skills.

How should I close my education cover letter?

Close your education cover letter with a strong final paragraph that reiterates your interest in the position and summarizes why you're an excellent fit. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to interview and discuss your qualifications further. End with a professional closing such as 'Sincerely' or 'Best regards,' followed by your full name. If submitting electronically, you can include a scanned signature for a personal touch.

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Education cover letter example

Cover letter middle part (body)

How to close an education cover letter (conclusion and sign-off).

When hiring managers read education cover letters, they are looking for both your ability to learn and to teach. You can’t be an excellent educator if you're not a lifelong learner. You’re ready to begin your job search and need an outstanding cover letter to do it.

How do you create a document that will land you at the head of the class? First, you need to understand the central message:  An education cover letter that helps you graduate  to the next level of your career is like a great lesson plan, it starts with the big picture and then breaks your message down into manageable chunks.

In this cover letter guide, along with the corresponding education cover letter examples, we’ll cover the following topics to help you design the best cover letter possible:

• How to choose the best cover letter format and what paragraphs the cover letter should include
• How to maximize the effect of each cover letter paragraph (header, greeting, intro, body and conclusion)
• What approach to take when writing your cover letter
• What mistakes to avoid when writing your education cover letter.

The guide below will analyze the details and give you ideas on how to make the most of this one-page addition to your application. (You can also check out our library of 125+ cover letter examples ).

Best format for an education cover letter

Before you begin a new school year, you prep by outlining the units you need to teach and the time it will take. When you write a cover letter, you prep by understanding the sections that go into it. Your education cover letter should contain the following elements:

• The cover letter header
• The greeting / salutation
• The cover letter intro
• The middle paragraphs (body of the letter)
• The ending paragraph of your cover letter (conclusion and call-to-action)

The cover letter complements your resume and allows you to get into more detail. TYou differentiate for your audience, no matter what your role in education is. The same is true of your cover letter. Do a little research into the philosophy of your targeted school or company. Find out all you can about the students, customers and faculty and employees. This extra step will help you choose the best tone and wording to deliver your message.

The comprehensive cover letter guide is an impressive stop for  general advice on writing cover letters, but this text gets deeper into each paragraph and the specifics of writing for an accounting and finance position.

The education cover letter example below gives an overview of how to create your own application:

Dear Mr. Jacobs, 

I was elated to hear that a Classroom Teacher position is seeking candidates at the Hillside School. I have long admired the mission of your school, and personally know many families who have greatly benefited from the outstanding education and guidance your school provides. I am very much hoping for the opportunity to serve your students and families through the implementation of exceptional curriculum and instruction, and a willingness to guide and mentor students on their journey to success. 

I bring forth extensive experience as a lead teacher for early childhood students, where I implemented differentiated instruction in multi-cultural and multi-racial classrooms. My Teaching Philosophy is centered around the idea that students learn best when they are fully engaged through their own curiosities and interests. I would be honored to collaborate with the educators and administration at the Hillside School to provide the most enriching learning experiences possible for students. 

Please let me know if we can further discuss this opportunity in person. Thank you for your consideration. 

Most Sincerely,

Sebastian Wilder

Cover letter header

The header of your cover letter is like the date and agenda you post in your classroom each day. Recruiters know where to look for it to find the information they need to schedule your interview. 

Display your name, email and phone contact information prominently. Add a little flair by using a creative font and perhaps a splash of color. If you work with young students or are an art teacher, you can use a slightly more fun approach to show off your energy and enthusiasm for decorating for the little ones.

If you do get arty, remember that your real goal is to make it easy for hiring managers to contact you, so keep it legible.

Make the grade with the Applicant Tracking System 

In our education resume guide, we explain how to rank high with Applicant Tracking Systems. Take the same approach with your cover letter. Many school districts use a common application system: Applitrack. It is easy to copy your application from one district to the next, but make sure you differentiate your cover letter for each job just as you do your resume. 

ATS software is ubiquitous throughout the human resources world, so the same applies to any job for which you apply online.

The aim of this section: Develop an easy-to-read, eye-catching display for your contact information.

Cover letter greeting

The greeting sets the tone for the remainder of your education cover letter, therefore we recommend beginning with the standard “Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms. Surname.” You will note that our cover letter examples use this greeting. Remember to triple check that you have the spelling correct. Many educators have doctorates, so be sure to check on all titles before you send your letter. There’s no quicker way to lose points (or the interview) than to misspell someone’s name or get their gender or title wrong.

Some schools, especially private or charter schools, may operate more casually. In that case, you can adjust your greeting to “Hi First Name,” but if you have any doubts, it is better to stick to a more formal greeting.

If you cannot get the name of a person, “to whom it may concern” is a fine alternative. We suggest staying away from more casual greetings such as “Dear Math Department,” because it may come off as disrespectful.

The aim of the cover letter greeting: Address the principal, hiring manager or your prospective boss personally and professionally to set the tone for your letter.

Cover letter introduction

You meet hundreds of people in your career so you know that first impressions matter. The introduction of your education cover letter is your first impression. It is here that you reveal the big idea and hint at the lesson plan to follow. 

Here is a broad outline you can use:

• Take a sentence to introduce yourself and your career.
• Show off your proudest education achievement (make sure it illustrates a skill you will need in your new position.
• Tell why you are a great candidate for the job.

Make sure you answer the key question: “Why should I hire you?” in this paragraph. A job application is not the place to be modest. If you can’t explain why you’re a great candidate, the hiring manager definitely won’t think you are either.

The aim of the cover letter intro: Tell the hiring manager why you’re right for the job and wow them with your proudest moment.

Time for your lesson. It is here that you offer the details that support your message and reveal more of your personality. As an educator, your communication style and the language you use are key components of your lesson delivery, so show them off here.

Describe your education pedagogy, how you incorporate the learning styles of your class or audience or your approach to developing training materials. Those soft skills that make you a great communicator and collaborator are necessary in the education field, but don’t neglect harder skills. Technology and data-driven analysis have become increasingly important in education, so illustrate the innovative ways in which you use high tech tools. 

Use bullet points that begin with strong action words to break up the blocks of type and focus recruiters’ eyes on two or three achievements.

The aim of the middle part of your cover letter: Expand upon your message and broaden out the list of skills you highlight.

Great lessons close with a recap of the learning, any questions that a student may have and some next steps to take. The same is true of your education cover letter. 

First, remind the hiring manager why you are an outstanding candidate. Then, show off your passion for your career with a personal note about why you became an educator or what your targeted role will mean to you. This reveals more about whether you will be a good fit for the job and leaves the door open for follow-up questions during your interview.

No cover letter is complete without a call to action, so make sure you politely request an interview. Our cover letter sample offers one suggestion for the wording of this request.

The aim of the close of your cover letter: Create an opportunity for follow-up questions and reiterate why you are an excellent candidate .

Writing psychology: how to convey your work ethic in your cover letter

Telling recruiters that you are hard-working is a cliche, but you are, so how do you show that in your education cover letter?

• Use anecdotes that illustrate the point. Working on committees, taking on extra roles, creating new curriculum all show you work hard.
• Highlight your innovations. You’re not sitting back on your laurels, you’re learning, researching and incorporating all that into new and exciting ideas on the job.
• Show your passion. Education can be a difficult field. Make sure the hiring manager knows you’re energetic and enthusiastic about it.

How to avoid basic mistakes in an education application letter 

• Spell check, grammar check, proofread! You assess others based partly on these skills, so make sure you get it right.
• Be careful with your word usage. Being in front of an audience, whether it is public school students or a customer service department you are training, requires care with your language. Make sure you apply that to your cover letter.
• Keep your stories brief. You have only 300 or so words, so save the long anecdotes for the interview.

Key takeaways for an education cover letter

• Show off your technology and data prowess as well as your outgoing personality.
• Describe your educational pedagogy and philosophy clearly.
• Use strong action words and descriptors to help you sound energetic and enthusiastic.
• Pick examples that demonstrate what you will add to the faculty or staff.

If you’re looking for additional inspiration for cover letter writing, you can check out our related education cover letter samples:

• Elementary teacher cover letter example
• Teacher cover letter example
• Tutor cover letter example
• Librarian cover letter example
• Substitute teacher cover letter example

Free professionally designed templates

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Education Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

In the dynamic field of education, a well-crafted education cover letter can set you apart. Whether you're an uplifting teacher who shapes young minds, a resilient substitute ensuring seamless education, or an efficient administrator who conducts the orchestra behind the scenes — this guide was made for you.

With our expert tips, inspiring examples, and customizable templates, crafting your ticket to your dream role has never been easier.

In this guide, we'll teach you some key steps for writing a cover letter as an education professional. Keep reading and learn how to:

• Format your education cover letter header & headline
• Personalize the greeting on your education cover letter
• Create an eye-catching education cover letter introduction
• Describe your accomplishments as an education professional
• End your education cover letter with a strong closing statement
• Access the best job search resources for education professionals

Still looking for a job? These 100+ resources will tell you everything you need to get hired fast.

Create your cover letter fast with artificial intelligence.

1. format properly your education cover letter header & headline.

A cover letter header and headline are the first essential elements to add to any well-written cover letter .

The header is where you will list all the important identifying information about yourself (the applicant) and the company you are applying to (the employer). This header can be formatted in many different ways according to your style preferences.

Followign the header is the headline , a short title statement that serves two key purposes: to hook the employer’s attention and to accurately preview the main point of the document.

Below we have included more in-depth explanations and examples of these two cover letter elements:

Formatting the header

As mentioned, your header can vary in formatting depending on your personal style. Some applicants will opt for a more centered header, while others will keep it in a neat block of text in the top-left corner.

Regardless of the style you opt for, your header should always include:

• The name of the company you are applying to (& the department name, when applicable)
• Your name and professional title
• Your professional contact information (phone number, email address, LinkedIn, etc.)

Here's an example of a well-formatted education cover letter header

To: Buncombe County School District, Curriculum Department From: Jane Doe , Professional Superintendent & Educator (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/jane-doe

Writing the headline

When writing the headline of your cover letter, consider how journalists and media outlets use headlines to grab the attention of readers. For a headline to be effective, it must be equal parts compelling and honest, offering a clear preview of the most important information to come.

To craft your headline, you should always include keyword related to the position, an eye-catching number or trigger word, a powerful adjective or verb, and a promise.

Here's an example of a well-written education headline

My Biggest Success as an Educator & How It Can Benefit Your District’s Students

Trigger Word/Number : Biggest Success Keyword: Educator, Students Adjective/Verb: Benefit Promise: Your District – this detail tells the employer that you will relate your successes and qualifications directly to the needs of their specific school district and students.

2. Personalize the greeting on your education cover letter

Whenever possible, we always recommend using personalized greeting on your cover letter.

A personalized greeting addresses a specific person or department by name, showing the employer you have thoroughly researched their school or business before applying. Additionally, it highlights that you have a go-getter attitude and excellent attention to detail.

If you have done your due diligence but cannot pinpoint exactly who will read your cover letter, try out one of these alternatives:

To the [Company Name] Team

To the [Company Name] Hiring Manager

Find out your resume score!

3. Create an eye-catching education cover letter introduction

The headline and greeting of your cover letter work together to initially hook an employer’s attention. While this is a crucial part of any cover letter, you need to follow it up with a captivating introduction that keeps the employer interested.

To achieve this, you should aim to include in your introduction: 

• A brief overview of your professional history and goals
• A statement on why you are enthusiastic about applying to this company
• A mutual acquaintance (when possible)

Here's an example to help demonstrate how to write an education cover letter introduction

To [Employer’s Name],

I am an experienced Educator with over 5 years specializing in Art Therapy and Youth Rehabilitation. After learning about your school’s community support programs, I felt compelled to reach out to your Assistant Director, Mary Smith, to inquire about openings at the school. Ms. Smith reviewed my resume and strongly recommended I apply for this position. 

Not only does this example name a mutual acquaintance but it also highlights an aspect of the school’s programming that the applicant admires — a great start to any cover letter!

4. Effectively describe your accomplishments as an education professional

Following your introduction are the cover letter body paragraphs, where you can offer a more in-depth look at your qualifications and passions. You should aim to include between 2 to 4 body paragraphs that answer these key questions:

• What excites you about working at this company?
• What do you hope to learn from working at this company?
• What accomplishments or qualifications make you stand out as an applicant?
• What key skills do you possess that are relevant to the position?

Placing special emphasis on your relevant accomplishments is always recommended, as they help to show an employer what real-life improvements you can offer and achieve.

Here's an example of how to describe accomplishments in an education cover letter

• As an Education Learning Specialist at [Former Employer], I worked directly with English and Language Arts teachers to develop a new reading program that is adjustable to each student’s current reading level. As a result of this program, average student comprehension scores rose by 45% and average end-of-grade language arts testing scores rose by 60%.
• I successfully implemented a student-centered learning approach that significantly improved academic performance and engagement in the classroom. By incorporating innovative teaching methods and personalized lesson plans, I saw a remarkable 25% increase in student test scores, resulting in several students receiving academic recognition awards.

5. End your education cover letter with a strong closing statement

The final piece of the cover letter puzzle is a strong closing statement that includes:

• An enthusiastic sentence saying you are looking forward to hearing from them
• An additional sentence stating you will follow up, including how you will contact them or how they can contact you
• A formal sign-off

Here's an example of an effective closing statement from an education cover letter

As a passionate Education professional, I am eager to get to know your school district, staff, and students better. I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss this position and my qualifications with you directly, and am available to meet any weekday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. The best way to reach me is at (123) 456-7890.

Yours Truly,

[Applicant Name]

If you have ever wondered how a cover letter differs from a resume, this article will tell you everything about the key differences between the two .

6. Valuable job search resources for education professionals

Venturing into the education sector can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to job searching. Navigate this multifaceted field with more ease using the following online resources:

• Specialized job boards:  Sites like Education Week , HigherEdJobs , and SchoolSpring cater specifically to education professionals and offer a plethora of job listings from pre-school to university levels.
• Networking platforms: Holidays aren't the only time for connecting. LinkedIn provides year-round opportunities to network with peers, learn about potential employers, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's the teachers' lounge of the digital world.
• Online profile platforms: Indeed , SchoolJobs , and Teachaway let you create a digital profile showcasing your skillset and experiences. You'll also receive alerts for new job postings that align with your credentials. Handy, right?
• Professional organizations: Groups such as the National Education Association (NEA) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) offer great resources, including job boards and insightful articles about the educational field. They might even bring cookies (or just useful knowledge, but that's good too).

Rest assured, your ideal job is out there, waiting for you to teach it a lesson, or two.

Education Cover Letter FAQ

How should i address my education cover letter if i don’t know the recipient's name.

If a job posting doesn't provide a contact name, it's best to use a professional, generic greeting. Options include "Dear Hiring Manager," or "Dear [School Name] Team."

Can I mention my teaching philosophy in the cover letter?

Yes, including a brief mention of your teaching philosophy can be beneficial. However, ensure this remains concise and relevant to the job description and the school's values. 

What if I'm switching from a different career to education?

In cases like this, focus on transferable skills in your cover letter. Make a clear case for why your past experiences are valuable in an educational context. 

How do I highlight extracurricular involvement in my cover letter?

If you've mentored a club, coached a sport, or led other school activities, be sure to include these experiences. It shows your willingness to contribute to the school community beyond classroom hours.

Could my cover letter exceed one page if I have a lot to offer?

While you may have a lot of experiences and talents, it's best to keep your cover letter as concise as possible. Aim to not exceed a single page. Highlight your most pertinent and impressive attributes in relation to the job you're applying for.

Nikoleta Kuhejda

A journalist by trade, a writer by fate. Nikoleta went from writing for media outlets to exploring the world of content creation with Kickresume and helping people get closer to the job of their dreams. Her insights and career guides have been published by The Female Lead , College Recruiter , and ISIC, among others. When she’s not writing or (enthusiastically) pestering people with questions, you can find her traveling or sipping on a cup of coffee.

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• News & Resources

Job Search Tips

The higher education job market is competitive. Put your best foot forward and increase your chances of landing your next job in academe with the useful tips, advice, and job search strategies below.

Cover Letter Advice

A well-written cover letter can be equally important as an impressive resume or CV. A cover letter should accompany each resume you send and be tailored distinctly for the position to which you are applying. You should describe your abilities, skills, and experience, and illustrate them with concrete examples to show how your knowledge and expertise is relevant to the position and will benefit the employer. Let your cover letter allow the hiring manager to see a glimpse of your personality by telling a brief story of your professional experiences that can't be seen through a list of achievements on a resume. Review the samples of cover letters and relevant articles for more information.

• The Do’s of Writing a Cover Letter
• Everything That You Say/Write Will Be Used Against You
• Is Your Cover Letter Persuasive?
• Cover Letters, A New Technique

Sample Cover Letters

• Academic Advisor Position
• Senior Recruiter Position
• Analytical Chemist Position

Resume/CV Advice

A resume is more than just a list of dates, job titles, and duties. It is your time to impress. An effective resume is a clear and concise description of your professional skills, experience, and accomplishments. It summarizes your qualifications to sell your experience and potential to an employer. It should intrigue the reader to want to learn more about your personality, skills, and potential fit within their company.

A curriculum vitae (CV) is similar to a resume in that it includes your education, skills, and experience, but it also highlights research, teaching experience, publications, grants, professional associations, licenses, and/or other awards. The CV is a more detailed synopsis, commonly used in academia by faculty.

• The Next Step Resume
• Do's and Don'ts of Submitting Through an Applicant Tracking System
• Why You Must Have Three Resumes
• The Purpose and Language of Resumes
• Crafting Your First Resume
• Are You a Reacher or a Settler?
• A Resume for Employers or a Record for You?
• Toning It Down: How and When Should You Consider Understating Your Credentials?
• Academe's Resume 2.0 in the Era of Web 2.0
• Social Media in Higher Education Careers

Sample Resumes

• Traditional Style
• Professional Style
• Modern Style

Sample CVs:

• Sciences Position
• Fine Arts Position
• Fine Arts (Professional)
• Fine Arts (Modern)

Interviewing and Job Search Strategies

In addition to writing an effective cover letter and resume, there are many other "softer" yet equally important skills that are necessary to include in your job search toolkit. See below for information and advice on preparing for and succeeding in interviews, networking, effectively using social media, marketing yourself, using references, finding the right job or institutional "fit," and other key points for building an effective strategy for job search success.

Learn More About Job Search Strategies

• Career Fitness: The Social Job Application
• How to Find a Job: Five Foundations for Success
• Limber up for that Search
• Academic Job Search: A Playbook for the Internal Candidate
• Organize Your Job Search Like an Air Traffic Controller
• Stop Applying Everywhere, Start Gathering Information
• When is the Best Time for Open Positions in Higher Ed?
• How to Appropriately Use Your Network During Your Job Search
• Search Early, Search Often
• 10 Best Practices for a Higher Education Job Search
• You Can't Get a Job By Applying For It
• Six Ways to Do Your Homework on a Potential Employer
• Talented Person...Will Work for a Job
• Finding Your Niche Market
• Internet Your Way to a New Job
• Your References: An Important Part of the Job Search Process

Learn More About Interviewing

• Is It Better to Interview First or Last?
• How to Tell Your Story Without a Self-Evaluation
• Eight Interview Mistakes You Don’t Know You’re Making
• Seven Ways to Approach Panel Interviews
• Bridging Gaps in Your Qualifications
• How to "Draft" your Message for a Second Interview
• Etiquette for a Successful Interview

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Education Cover Letter Example

Cover letter examples, cover letter guidelines, how to format an education cover letter, cover letter header, cover letter header examples for education, how to make your cover letter header stand out:, cover letter greeting, cover letter greeting examples for education, best cover letter greetings:, cover letter introduction, cover letter intro examples for education, how to make your cover letter intro stand out:, cover letter body, cover letter body examples for education, how to make your cover letter body stand out:, cover letter closing, cover letter closing paragraph examples for education, how to close your cover letter in a memorable way:, pair your cover letter with a foundational resume, key cover letter faqs for education.

Start your Education cover letter by addressing the hiring manager directly, if possible. Then, introduce yourself and state the position you're applying for. For example, "Dear Mr. Smith, I am Jane Doe, a dedicated educator with over 5 years of experience in elementary education, applying for the 5th-grade teacher position at XYZ School." This approach is professional and shows you've done your research. Follow this with a compelling reason why you're interested in the role and the school. For instance, you could mention a unique program the school offers or its mission statement that resonates with your teaching philosophy. This demonstrates your genuine interest and aligns your values with the school's.

The best way for Educations to end a cover letter is by expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity and gratitude for the reader's time. You should also reiterate your interest in the role and your eagerness to contribute to the institution. For example, you might say, "I am excited about the possibility of bringing my unique skills and experiences to your institution and am confident I can make a significant contribution. Thank you for considering my application." Always sign off professionally with "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name. This ending leaves a positive impression, showing your respect, enthusiasm, and professionalism.

In a cover letter, Educators should include the following: 1. Personal Information: Start with your name, address, contact number, and email address. 2. Salutation: Address the hiring manager or the person mentioned in the job posting directly. 3. Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and mention the position you're applying for. 4. Experience and Skills: Highlight your relevant teaching experiences and skills. This could include your teaching philosophy, classroom management strategies, curriculum development, and any special training or certifications you have. 5. Achievements: Mention any significant achievements in your teaching career, such as improvements in student test scores, successful implementation of innovative teaching methods, or recognition and awards you've received. 6. Knowledge about the Institution: Show that you've done your homework about the institution you're applying to. Mention what you admire about the institution and how you can contribute to its mission and goals. 7. Conclusion: Reiterate your interest in the position and express your eagerness to discuss your qualifications further in an interview. 8. Professional Closing: End with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name and signature. Remember, the cover letter should not just repeat what's in your resume. It should complement your resume by providing a more personal and detailed explanation of why you're the right fit for the job. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job and institution you're applying to, showing how your skills, experience, and goals align with what they're looking for.

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Childcare worker resume example, try our ai cover letter generator.

• Career Advice

How to Write a Successful Cover Letter

By  Victoria Reyes

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Sociologist Andrew Whitehead started a Twitter thread some months ago detailing his take on various stages of the academic job market. For the cover letter, he gave excellent advice . He suggested among other things, keeping it at a suggested length (one and a half to two pages) and avoiding jargon. He also stressed the importance of strong lead sentences, using the cover letter to highlight and point to other parts of your application, and controlling the narrative you want to tell .

Others have also written about writing a cover letter. Cheryl E. Ball, for example, provides excellent advice and a paragraph-by-paragraph breakdown . Indeed, a simple Google search on “how to write an academic cover letter” brings back 49,600 results if the clause is in quotations, and 526 million results without quotations.

I want to build on the foundational advice of those before me and provide additional insight into the purpose of a cover letter, tips for writing a successful one and what to avoid in it. At the very least, I find having multiple perspectives, styles of writing and exposure to different ways of thinking about the same topic to be useful.

This essay draws on an invited prep talk on how to write a cover letter that I gave at the 2019 American Sociological Association’s annual meeting and on my own experience as a job applicant and as a faculty member on search committees. It’s meant to be helpful for those new on the job market, as the following advice may seem obvious to those who have been in academe for a while.

The first thing that Ph.D. students need to remember about the academic cover letter is its purpose: to introduce who you are as a scholar, what you would bring to the department as a potential colleague and how you fit the requirements listed in the advertisement. The cover letter may be the first thing search committee members see, alongside the CV, so you want to make sure that it captures their attention in a good way.

Here are some tips that I hope you’ll find helpful.

Don’t assume knowledge on the part of the reader. Don’t presuppose that faculty members are reading your application holistically, or that if you mentioned something in a research statement, you won’t have to repeat it in the cover letter. As Whitehead suggests, you should walk your reader through the narrative you want to tell of who you are as a scholar. For example, what is it you study? Are you a scholar of globalization? Social movements? Race? What is the overarching question your research addresses? Even if the content of your publications covers particular topics, and it seems obvious to you who you are as a scholar, you need to specify in your cover letter what it is you study. Take the lead in shaping the narrative of you who are. If you don’t, others will.

Another aspect of not assuming knowledge on the part of the reader means that you need to be explicit, stating what you think is obvious -- because what is obvious to you is not always obvious to the reader. For example, although your dissertation may use qualitative methods, you may be able to teach undergraduate statistics. But you decide not to say in your cover letter that you are able to teach that class because you assume that anyone who has a Ph.D. in sociology could do so. However, that assumption would be incorrect, and the search committee will not know that you can, and want, to teach undergrad statistics unless you say that explicitly in your cover letter and teaching statement.

Tailor your letter. As others, like Karen Kelsky, have written , do your research on the institution and department behind the ad. Take care to understand and communicate how you fit with a given department and how you and your work connect to departmental activities and communities across the college or university. That means elaborating on your approach to teaching for a liberal arts college, for example, and demonstrating what your publications and research can specifically bring to a research university.

Tailoring your letter also means tailoring it to the job ad, remembering to be as explicit as you can about how you fit the listed requirements. If the job ad states that the position is for someone who studies religion, for example, say you study religion. Additionally, show how your broader research agenda ties to religion in some way. My department is currently hiring in organizations and institutions, and successful applicants clearly state they are scholars that study these areas. More important, the most successful applicants demonstrate that they are primarily interested in expanding theoretical knowledge about organizations and institutions more generally, rather than being theoretically interested in a different topic that happens to take place within an organization.

Something I didn’t realize until I was on the faculty side of hiring is that the areas of specialization asked for in the ad, other than those few open hires that call for anyone in any specialization to apply, are often tied to holes in the curriculum. So, for instance, at my institution, an applicant who demonstrates a teaching record related to organizations and institutions is the strongest, while a desire to teach -- with no prior record -- is slightly less ideal but still a potentially strong applicant. Someone who does not explicitly state their experience or their desire to teach in organizations and institutions is not as strong a candidate. The search committee only knows what you write down in your materials, so be sure to mention the obvious!

Write as a potential colleague rather than as a graduate student. When you write about your research, focus on your arguments and contributions rather than simply describing the details of your specific study. That demonstrates you’ve shifted to being a producer of knowledge who knows how your research fits into the broader field. Another way to write as a potential colleague, rather than as a graduate student, is to discuss how you see yourself fitting into, and contributing to, the department, college and university. That means doing your homework and seeing what centers and institutions are on the campus, as well as any workshops, symposia or other events that occur in your department and how you could contribute or add to those ventures. This involves a transition to seeing yourself as someone who is a useful resource that brings something to the academic table.

Write fact-based statements that highlight your accomplishments, including publications, awards, fellowships and teaching. It is not bragging or self-promotion to say that you’ve received an award or fellowship. It’s a statement of fact. For example, saying that you’ve won a teaching or mentoring award is evidence of excellence in teaching or mentoring. That is different than adjective-filled comments that talk about your “passion for teaching,” for example. Fact-based statements that highlight your accomplishments show , rather than tell, the reader of your commitment. Of course, you could still say you are passionate about teaching. Just follow it up with a sentence that provides concrete evidence or data that supports your claim -- such as a teaching award.

Be clear and concise. Write short, declarative sentences. Do not write long, complicated sentences, as your point may get lost in the details.

Here are a few things to avoid when writing a cover letter.

Excessive detail. Don’t try to describe each and every paper you’ve written in the cover letter. Instead, highlight one or two given papers and discuss their arguments and significance. Also, don’t give a detailed description of how your paper fits into the existing literature. That is appropriate for an article but not a cover letter, because it takes up too much space that could be better used to highlight your own accomplishments rather than others’ arguments. To be sure, you can gesture to how it fits into the existing literature, but limit it to just a short sentence or two. You should not write a whole paragraph on the intricacies of the subfield.

Jargon. Similar to what Verena Hutter and Kelsky write, be sure to avoid jargon and clichés . Remember that members of the search committee are likely not in your subfield. Translating your research for a general audience means getting rid of the jargon, or at the very least, defining the jargon you use. While each subfield’s jargon differs, think about whether a certain concept or word is familiar to an educated lay audience. If not, then it is important to try to explain your work without using the jargon.

For example, if you are dedicated to feminist praxis, talk about your commitment to both feminism and putting theory in action in lay terms, and/or define what you mean by “feminist praxis” -- particularly if you are applying to a department other than gender studies or related subfields. That said, avoiding jargon means knowing your audience, as it depends on the discipline and subfield. For example, writing that you are committed to feminist praxis may not be jargon in a gender studies department. In contrast, writing that you are committed to having students discover their “sociological imagination” may be jargon for gender studies but is a taken-for-granted concept across subfields within sociology.

Hyperbole. As previously mentioned, stick to fact-based statements that highlight your accomplishments. Remember you are probably competing with hundreds of applicants, many of whom have competitive records and accomplishments. So saying something such as “I am uniquely qualified to fill the position” is very likely to be untrue.

The three things to avoid that I mention above are common mistakes that signal someone who is still positioning themselves as a grad student, not a colleague, and thus, someone who may not be ready for a faculty job. That is a tricky but extremely important transition to make. It requires walking a delicate line between drawing on and acknowledging the work that senior scholars have done in the field and being confident enough to know you have something to contribute.

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Teacher Cover Letter Examples For 2024 (20+ Skills & Templates)

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Looking to land more job offers as a Teacher?

Crafting a strong cover letter is key. This comprehensive guide is packed with everything you need to know in order to write a job-winning Teacher cover letter , complete with effective strategies, essential skills, helpful templates, and real-life examples.

You can trust that all the insights and tips in this guide are based on data from coaching thousands of job seekers, just like you, who have gone on to secure positions at some of the world's most reputable companies.

Whether you're a seasoned Teacher or just starting out, reading this guide from start to finish can help you land your dream role. But if you're short on time and looking for specific information, here's a breakdown of what's included:

• What To Know About Writing A Job-Winning Teacher Cover Letter
• The Best Skills To Include On An Teacher Cover Letter

How To Address A Teacher Cover Letter

• 3 Teacher Cover Letter Examples

The 8 Best Teacher Cover Letter Templates

3 tips for writing a job-winning teacher cover letter.

Here's the step-by-step breakdown:

Teacher Cover Letter Overview: What To Know To Write A Cover Letter That Wins More Job Offers

Wondering what school districts are looking for when they're hiring a teacher?

Districts want knowledgeable, skilled, and dedicated teachers that are highly qualified. That means they have the proper education, certifications, and experience along with mastery of their subject, strong classroom management, communication, flexibility, and commitment to student learning.  Professionalism, reliability, and punctuality are also key qualities.

Your resume should show the district that the your experience and personality combined encompass all of these things.

Additionally, there are a few best practices you want to follow to write a job-winning Teacher resume:

• Highlight your education and certifications:  emphasizing any relevant coursework or specialized training.
• Emphasize your teaching experience:  providing specific examples of your accomplishments and contributions to student learning.
• Include keywords from the job description:  ensure your resume is optimized for applicant tracking systems (ATS).
• Showcase your skills and achievements:  including examples of your ability to manage a classroom, communicate effectively, and use technology.
• Provide references from colleagues:  or supervisors who can speak to your teaching abilities
• Proofread: Make sure to thoroughly proofread your cover letter for any grammatical errors or typos. A well-written, error-free letter can make a strong first impression. I recommend using Hemingway App to do this.

Let's dive deeper into each of these so you have the exact blueprint you need to see success.

The Best Teacher Skills To Include On Your Cover Letter

Keywords are one of the most important factors in your cover letter. They show employers that your skills align with the role and they also help format your cover letter for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

If you're not familiar with ATS systems, they are pieces of software used by employers to manage job applications. They scan cover letters for keywords and qualifications and make it easier for the employers to filter and search for candidates whose qualifications match the role.

If you want to win more Teacher interviews and job offers, you need to have a keyword-optimized cover letter. There are two ways to find the right keywords:

1. Leverage The 20 Best Teacher Keywords

The first way to find the right keywords is to leverage our list of the best keywords and skills for an Teacher cover letter.

These keywords were selected from an analysis of  real Teacher  job descriptions sourced from actual job boards. Here they are:

• Communication
• Collaborative
• Development
• Flexibility
• Performance
• Instruction
• Regulations

2. Use ResyMatch.io To Find The Best Keywords That Are Specific To Your Cover Letter And Target Role

The second method is the one I recommend because it's personalized to your specific cover letter and target job.

This process lets you find the exact keywords that your cover letter is missing when compared to the individual role you're applying for.

Here's how it works:

• Open a copy of your target Teacher job description
• Head over to  ResyMatch.io
• Select the “Job Description Scan” from the scan type selector in the upper right corner of the tool
• Copy and paste the Teacher job description into the field on the left
• Hit scan and review the results

ResyMatch is going to scan the target job description and show you the exact keywords and skills that are relevant for the role and that you should weave into your cover letter.

Here's a video walking through this whole process:

Personalization is what makes a cover letter stand out. That starts from the very first sentence where you greet the person reading your cover letter! There are two ways to do this well:

1. Use The Campus Principal's Name

The first, and best, is by including the campus principal's name. Let's say that you discovered the campus principal's name from a post on LinkedIn or via an informational interview.

This is the jackpot! All you need to do is use their name in the introduction, like this:

2. Use This Formula: To The [Department] Team at [Organization]

If you don't have the campus principal's name, no problem! You can address your cover letter to the team that you're applying to.

For example, if you're applying to for a Product Marketing Manager role at Discovery Education, you might start you cover letter like this:

This shows the reader that this letter has been written specifically for them and the content inside of it will support that.

It's much more relevant and personal than  “To Whom It May Concern!”

For more advice on writing a strong opening to your cover letter, check out this guide.

3 Teacher Cover Letter Examples For 2023

Now let's take a look at all of these best practices in action. Here are three cover letter examples for different situations from people with different backgrounds that are all applying for Teacher roles:

Teacher Cover Letter Example #1: A Traditional Background

Our first example is a cover letter written by a candidate with traditional Teacher experience. Here is what an example of their cover letter might look like:

Teacher Cover Letter Example #2: A Non-Traditional Background

Our second cover letter example comes from a candidate looking to transition from the healthcare industry into a teacher role. This cover letter illustrates how they identify and speak to their transferable skills:

Teacher Cover Letter Example #3: Landing An Elementary Teacher Role Despite Majority Experience in Upper Grade Levels

Our third example highlights a candidate with extensive teaching experience in middle and high school grades, looking to transition to the elementary classroom.

At this point, you know all of the basics you'll need to write a Teacher cover letter that wins you more interviews and offers. The only thing left is to take all of that information and apply it to a template that's going to help you get results.

We made that easy with  our CoverBuild tool . It has 8 proven templates that were created with the help of recruiters and hiring managers at the world's best companies. These templates also bake in thousands of data points we have from the job seekers in our audience who have used them to land job offers.

You're off to a strong start! But I've got a few more tips to help you take your cover letter to the next level:

1. Use ChatGPT To Write Your Cover Letter In <30 Seconds

All of these tips and best practices work, but you still have to implement them. Normally, that'd mean you sitting down and spending hours brainstorming ideas, typing, deleting, and typing again, and then feeling absolutely drained.

Now there's a way to work around all of that so you save your best energy for the writing and edits that matter most. Here's how it works:

• Head to ChatGPT (you'll need to create an account – it's free)
• Ask ChatGPT,  “Please write me a cover letter for an Teacher role. The role I'm applying for is [Job Title] role at [School District]. Here is the job description: [Paste Job Description]. And here is my resume: [Paste Resume].
• Watch ChatGPT write up a pretty darn good cover letter base!

Here's a video of me doing this with a real cover letter if you want to see the steps in action:

Note:  I  do not recommend or advise that you simply copy and paste the content from ChatGPT into your cover letter and submit your application. ChatGPT is great for doing 80% of the baseline work, but you still need to review, revise, and personalize the content yourself.

2. Include Measurable Metrics And Outcomes

Too many job seekers only focus on the actions that they took and not the outcomes that resulted from those actions. As a campus principal, it's impossible to differentiate between a dozen candidates who were all “Responsible For Creating a Safe Learning Environment.” 

If you want to win, your cover letter should speak to the specific outcomes that you drove in previous roles. That could be:

• The percentage by which your students' content mastery increased
• The average reduction in behavioral issues
• The average parent satisfaction rate
• The rate at which your student engagement increased from year to year

These numbers will show hiring teams what you're capable of and make your value crystal clear!

3. Match Your Cover Letter And Resume Design

They're the exact same car, down to the year, make, and model. The only difference is the way the product was presented. Like I said, quality impacts perceived value.

One of the best ways to boost the quality of your cover letter is to make it look clean, professional, and have it match your resume. That's why the resume templates in our resume builder tool match the cover letter templates in our cover letter builder:

If you use both tools to create your cover letter and your resume, your entire application is going to be top notch.

Key Takeaways To Wrap Up Your Job-Winning Cover Letter

You made it! We packed a lot of information into this post so I wanted to distill the key points for you and lay out next steps so you know exactly where to from here.

Here are the 5 steps for writing a job-winning Teacher cover letter:

• Start with a proven cover letter template from CoverBuild.io
• Use  ResyMatch.io to find the right keywords and optimize your cover letter for each Teacher role you apply to
• Start your teacher cover letter with a personalized greeting for the campus principal or Human Resources representative.
• Emphasize the measurable outcomes and value you drove in previous roles (include metrics!)
• Compare the draft of your teacher cover letter to the examples on this page to make sure you're on the right path
• Use a tool like  Hemingway App to proofread your cover letter before you submit it

If you follow those steps, you're going to be well on your way to landing more Teacher interviews and job offers.

Now that your cover letter is taken care of, be sure to check out my guide on how to write a job-winning Teacher resume (with examples!)

Laura Lorta

Laura is an Editor at Cultivated Culture. She transitioned from teaching into the world of content so she's no stranger to career pivots. She also has a bachelors in Entrepreneurship and a Masters in Curriculum & Instruction / Bilingual Education. She currently shares job search advice to help people like you land jobs they love without applying online.

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Education Cover Letter Examples

Writing a cover letter for a job in the education field can be a challenging task. There are many elements that need to be included in a cover letter in order to make it stand out from the competition. For those seeking a career in the education field, having the perfect cover letter can be the difference between a job offer and never hearing from the employer. This blog post provides helpful cover letter examples and a comprehensive writing guide for creating an education cover letter that stands out.

Cover Letter Samples by Job-Title

• Academic Coach
• After School Counselor
• Community Assistant
• Educational Aide
• Elementary School Counselor
• High School Athletic Director
• Instructional Aide
• Kindergarten Assistant
• Learning Specialist
• Literature Teacher
• Math Teacher
• Paraeducator
• Parent Educator
• Student Mentor
• Academic Coordinator
• Academic Counselor
• Admission Counselor
• Admissions Advisor
• Admissions Officer
• Admissions Representative
• Clinical Educator
• College Assistant
• College Instructor
• Hall Director
• Instructional Assistant
• Student Lab Assistant
• Vocational Counselor
• Dean Of Students
• Education Specialist
• Educational Consultant
• Educational Specialist
• Elementary School Principal
• High School Principal
• Instructional Facilitator
• Paraprofessional
• School Administrator
• School Clerk
• School Coordinator
• School Principal
• Student Aide
• Superintendent
• Art Educator
• Academic Tutor
• Literacy Coach
• Admission Advisor
• Admission Clerk
• Admission Representative
• Admissions Assistant
• Admissions Recruiter
• After School Director
• After School Program Coordinator
• After School Program Director
• Assistant Dean
• Assistant Director Of Admissions
• Assistant Superintendent
• Associate Dean
• Attendance Clerk
• Attendance Secretary
• Career Consultant
• Career Services Advisor
• Career Specialist
• CPR Instructor
• Director Of Career Services
• Early Intervention Specialist
• Education Administrative Assistant
• Education Administrator
• Elementary Principal
• GED Instructor
• Head Of School
• Instructional Specialist
• Learning Consultant
• Literacy Specialist
• Literacy Teacher
• Middle School Counselor
• Middle School Principal
• Online Instructor
• Peer Mentor
• Professional Counselor
• Program Leader
• Residence Hall Director
• Residential Assistant
• School Custodian
• School Director
• School Guidance Counselor
• School Resource Officer
• School Superintendent
• Student Counselor
• Student Office Assistant
• Student Research Assistant
• Study Abroad Advisor
• Study Coordinator
• Technical Instructor
• Test Proctor
• University Registrar

Why a Education professional needs a cover letter

A cover letter is an important part of your job search when you are looking for a position in the education field. It helps to introduce you to potential employers, highlight your qualifications and skills, and set yourself apart from other job applicants. It is also a great way to express your enthusiasm and interest in a particular job.

A cover letter is the first thing potential employers will read and see, so it is important to make a good impression. Your cover letter should be well written and professional, as it will represent you. It should be tailored towards the position you are applying for and should include specific information about why you are the best candidate for the job.

Your cover letter should provide an overview of your professional qualifications and experiences. It should also highlight the skills and qualifications you have that are most relevant to the job. It should also show the potential employer that you have done your research and understand what the position entails. Additionally, you should include specific examples of how you have used your skills and qualifications to benefit your previous employers and educational institutions.

Finally, your cover letter should end with a strong conclusion that expresses your enthusiasm and interest. It should also provide your contact information and make it clear that you are available for an interview.

Cover letters are a great way to make a strong first impression and show potential employers why you would be an ideal candidate for the job. Making sure yours is well written, professional, and tailored to the position you are applying for will greatly improve your chances of getting the job.

Writing the Perfect Education Cover Letter

Writing an effective cover letter is essential when applying for a job in education. It’s the first impression you make on the hiring manager and, if done correctly, can be what sets you apart from the competition.

When writing your education cover letter, start by introducing yourself and providing a brief overview of your background. Make sure to mention any relevant experience or qualifications you have that make you a great candidate. Next, explain why you’re interested in the position and how your experience has prepared you for the job. Highlight your achievements, such as awards or certifications, and any special training or education- related activities in which you have participated.

Be sure to include specific examples of how you can contribute to the school. If you’re applying for a teaching position, for example, you can mention your experience working with children of different backgrounds or ages. Demonstrating your ability to be flexible will give the hiring manager an idea of your adaptability.

End your education cover letter by expressing your enthusiasm for the position and expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. Then, provide your contact information so that the hiring manager can easily get in touch with you.

Overall, the goal of the education cover letter is to show that you’re the right fit for the job. Focus on the experiences and skills you can bring to the school, and make sure to include any relevant details that make you stand out from other candidates. With a little effort and thoughtfulness, writing the perfect education cover letter is within reach.

What should be included in a Education cover letter

A cover letter for a job in the field of Education should include the following:

• An introduction that explains why you are interested in the position and why you feel you’re a great fit for it.
• A description of your relevant experience, skills, and qualifications.
• Examples of how you have already contributed to the education sector, if you have any.
• A brief overview of the reasons why you are passionate and excited about the position.
• A closing that expresses your enthusiasm for the opportunity and your willingness to further discuss the role.
• Your contact information, including your phone number and email address.

How to format a Education cover letter

Introduction.

Writing a cover letter for an Education position can be both daunting and exciting. It is important to showcase your qualifications and professional experience in a way that is both compelling and concise. In this guide, we will provide you with a few examples of how to format an Education cover letter.

Explain Your Professional Experience

When explaining your professional experience, you should start by discussing the qualifications that make you a great candidate for the Education position. Include specific examples of your past experience such as the number of students you have tutored or the knowledge you have gained from attending seminars or conferences. You should also include a brief overview of your accomplishments such as awards or recognition. Finally, explain how your skills and experience can be utilized for the benefit of the school or organization you are applying for.

Highlight Your Qualifications

When highlighting your qualifications, you should emphasize the skills you possess that make you a great fit for the Education position. Speak to how your knowledge and experience can be used to help the school or organization achieve its goals. Make sure to include details such as your ability to manage a classroom, lead a team, or mentor a student.

Make a Good Impression

When making a good impression, you should focus on making sure your cover letter is well written and organized. Make sure to include a professional header at the top of the page and a polite salutation. Additionally, you should avoid making any typos or grammatical errors. Read through your cover letter several times to make sure it is free of any errors.

When you are finished, make sure to thank the reader for taking the time to review your cover letter. Make sure to sign off with a professional closing and your contact information. By following these examples, you can create a strong Education cover letter that will make a great impression on the hiring committee.

Common mistakes to avoid when creating a Education cover letter

• Not Customizing Your Cover Letter to the Role: Every cover letter should be tailored to the specific school and position for which you are applying. Demonstrate your research skills by researching the school and position and including details in your letter.
• Not Including Skills and Qualifications: Your cover letter should highlight the skills, certifications, and qualifications that make you the ideal candidate for the job. Make sure to emphasize the skills and qualifications that are most relevant to the job.
• Not Showcasing Your Personality: Your cover letter should be a reflection of your personality and make a good impression on the hiring manager. Make sure to showcase your enthusiasm, drive, and passion for the job by displaying these traits in your writing.
• Relying Exclusively on Template Letters: While template cover letters can provide a good starting point, make sure to customize the letter to fit the specific job for which you are applying. Don’t simply copy and paste a template letter.
• Making Grammatical Errors: Always double- check your cover letter for any typos or grammatical errors. These mistakes can cost you the job, so make sure your cover letter is as error- free as possible.
• Including Unnecessary or Irrelevant Information: Your cover letter should be concise and focused. Don’t include information that is not relevant to the job. Stick to the important details and don’t include any unnecessary information.
• Not Following Directions: Many schools will provide instructions on how to submit your application materials, such as the format in which your cover letter should be written. Make sure to follow these directions exactly.
• Not Proofreading Your Cover Letter: Always proofread your cover letter and look for any typos or errors. Have a family member or friend review your letter for you.

Benefits of submitting a Education cover letter

Submitting a cover letter along with your education resume can be beneficial for a variety of reasons. It provides a great opportunity for you to introduce yourself to potential employers and demonstrate your knowledge of the position and organization. Here are some of the key benefits of submitting a Education cover letter:

• Demonstrate Your Knowledge: A cover letter offers a great opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge of the position and the organization. This can help you stand out from other applicants by providing evidence that you have done your research and have a clear understanding of the job requirements.
• Introduce Yourself: The cover letter allows you to introduce yourself and provide employers with more information than what is included in your resume. This is a chance to highlight your specific experience, skills, and qualifications that are relevant to the position.
• Share Your Passion: A cover letter also offers a chance to explain why you are passionate about the position and the organization. This can help you show employers that you are enthusiastic and motivated to take on the job.
• Establish Your Professionalism: Cover letters demonstrate your professionalism and commitment to the job. This is a chance to showcase your communication and writing skills, as well as demonstrate your attention to detail.
• Make a Good Impression: Finally, a cover letter provides you with the opportunity to make a good impression on potential employers. It is an opportunity to emphasize why you are the ideal candidate for the job and to explain why you are the right person for the position.

Writing an effective cover letter for a job in education requires a focused approach. A well- executed cover letter should address the job’s requirements, demonstrate how you are a good fit for the job, and highlight your qualifications and accomplishments. To stand out from other applicants and create a lasting impression, make sure to thoroughly review the job description and tailor your letter accordingly. As you craft your letter, be sure to utilize strong and confident language and provide examples of your aptitude and experience. By following the tips and examples in this writing guide, you can write an effective and compelling cover letter for a job in education.

Teacher Cover Letter Example and Writing Tips

Theresa Chiechi / The Balance

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How to Write a Cover Letter for a Teaching Position

Cover letter writing tips for teachers, cover letter example for a teacher, tips for using a cover letter template, more education-related cover letter examples.

Wondering how to get hired as a teacher? An outstanding and personalized cover letter for a teaching position can mean the difference between getting an interview and not getting a response to your application.

Use your cover letter to highlight relevant experience and past achievements. Your priority in this letter is to connect your work history and accomplishments to the job description. You’re not trying to recreate your resume here. Instead, you want to show the employer, at a glance, how you're qualified for the position.

The goal is to introduce yourself and showcase the skills and qualifications that make you stand out from the competition.

Whether you’re fresh out of college or an experienced teacher, these tips and cover letter examples will help you convince the hiring committee that you’re the best candidate for the job. 

Emphasize your achievements.  Include examples of your accomplishments in past jobs as a teacher. For example, if your students earned high state test scores, or if you received a teaching award, mention these successes. 

Describe your experience. While you do not want to copy your resume, it's helpful to include details on your experience. Quantifying them can help—for example, mention how many years you've taught. If you're new to the career, include details on your student-teaching experience.  

Mention any training or certifications.  Many teaching jobs have specific training and certification requirements. Use your cover letter to demonstrate that you have what’s required for the job.

Include related work outside the classroom.  If you have non-teaching work or volunteer experience that involves working with children, you can highlight this in your cover letter as well. You especially might want to do this if you have limited teaching experience.

Customize your cover letter.  Be sure to tailor each cover letter to fit the specific school and job listing. One way to do this is to research the school and mention why you think you’d be a good fit for that specific location. 

Take your time.  Many job seekers treat cover letters as an afterthought, but these letters are so much more than a cover sheet for your application. A boring, slapdash letter won’t help your candidacy, and it could hurt your chances.

Proofread and edit. Quality is also important: a cover letter filled with typos and grammatical errors will not inspire the hiring committee to give you a call. Proofread your letter carefully before you send or upload it.

This is an example of a cover letter for a teacher.  Download the teacher cover letter template  (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online).

The Balance

Cover Letter Example for a Teacher (Text Version)

Alissa McIntire 87 Washington Street Smithfield, CA 08055 555-555-5555 (h) 123-123-1234 (c) alissa.mcintire@email.com

May 17, 2022

Mr. John Doe Smithfield Elementary School Main Street Smithfield, CA 08055

Dear Mr. Doe,

I am interested in applying for an elementary-level teaching position in your school district. As a 2022 graduate of Amplesmith College, I have student teaching experience on the third- fourth-, and sixth-grade level, in both suburban and urban school districts. I believe my teaching experience and passion for community engagement make me an ideal candidate for a teaching position at your school.

I have experience teaching elementary-level students in a variety of settings. I am currently teaching third-grade children at an inner-city charter school. As a former education coordinator at a local museum, I also have experience teaching fourth-grade students in a small suburban school system. Your school emphasizes its unique position as a school that caters to both inner-city and suburban students, so I think my varied experiences would make me an asset to your program.

Your school also strives to engage students in the larger community. I have lots of experience incorporating community service projects into my classrooms. For example, as a student teacher, I led a unit for third-graders on plant life, and we volunteered at a local community garden. I would love to find ways to integrate service learning into my lesson plans.

It is my goal to combine my range of experience with my ability to be a compassionate, enthusiastic, intelligent teacher who will make a positive contribution to your school district and larger community. I would welcome an interview and hope to hear from you at your earliest convenience.

Signature (hard copy letter)

Alissa McIntire

A cover letter example helps you with the layout of your letter and what elements you need to include, such as introductions and body paragraphs.

Along with helping with your layout, cover letter examples can show you what kind of content you should include in your document and what type of language to use. For example, a sample might show you the action words you should utilize in your own cover letter.

Use a cover letter example as a guide to your own letter, but do not simply copy the text provided.

You should tailor your cover letter to fit your own work history and the job for which you are applying.

Review cover letter examples for many different types of education jobs and get templates you can use to write your own letters.

Also review resume examples and resume writing advice for teachers.

Key Takeaways

• A well-written cover letter will highlight your relevant experience and past achievements, and connect them to the job for which you're applying.
• It's important to tailor each cover letter you write to fit the specific school and job listing.
• If you don't have teaching experience, mention volunteering or non-work activities that are related to working with children.
• Teaching Assistant Cover Letter Samples
• Cover Letter Samples for Teachers
• How to Write an Academic Cover Letter With Examples
• Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Sample Cover Letter for a Job in the Arts
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• Director of Operations Cover Letter Example
• Sample Job Cover Letter for a College Summer Assistant Job
• Transportation Planning Cover Letter Example and Writing Tips
• Sample Cover Letter for an Entry-Level Position
• Research Technician Cover Letter Examples
• Athletic Director Cover Letter and Resume Examples
• Sample Cover Letter for a School Position
• Summer Sales Associate Cover Letter Example
• Write Interview Winning Resumes and Cover Letters

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How and Why to Write a Great Cover Letter

A cover letter is a one-page business letter that you submit when applying to a job, along with your resume. As a piece of persuasive writing, your cover letter will aim to convey to the employer why you’re a great candidate for the role.

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

Your cover letter complements your resume by making it easy for the employer to see how your experience and interest connect to the position. Your goal is to convince the employer to interview you.

With your cover letter, you’ll aim to:

• Highlight your qualifications:  You’ll show how your skills and experience relate to the employer’s needs for a specific position.
• Showcase your motivation: You’ll demonstrate your enthusiasm for the specific position and the organization.
• Reflect your voice and written communication skills: You’ll give the employer a sense of your personality and writing style.

When should I write a cover letter?

Not all jobs require cover letters. So, how do you decide whether to submit one?

Submit a Cover Letter when…

• The posting explicitly requests that you do so
• You’re applying to an opportunity at a mission-driven organization
• You think that doing so could provide important information to the employer that they wouldn’t get from your resume

Consider Submitting a Cover Letter when…

• It’s marked “optional” in an application, and you have the bandwidth to do so
• You have content that you can easily recycle or repurpose into a tailored cover letter

No Need to Submit a Cover Letter when…

• A posting specifically tells you not to submit one
• There’s no way to submit one in an application portal, and doing so would require a serious workaround

If you’re applying to several similar opportunities, creating a draft cover letter in advance, geared toward that type of opportunity, can be a helpful way to save time in your actual application process.

How do I write a cover letter?

Your cover letter should articulate your qualifications and motivation for the position. Read the job description closely and research the organization. As you craft your cover letter, use examples that demonstrate your relevant skills, knowledge, and interests. The cover letter should be concise, clear, and well-organized.

Before Writing

Research the employer.

Learn enough about the organization to articulate why you are a strong fit for that firm. 

• Review the firm’s website and LinkedIn page.
• Speak with current or previous employees.
• Read articles and social media for current news.

Analyze the job description

Look for skills, duties, and qualifications of the job so you can design your letter to match these as much as possible.

Reflect on your experience and motivation

Identify skills and personal qualities you have developed which will be useful in this role. Ask yourself:

• What attracts you about this role/company/industry?
• What have you have done in your work experiences, classes, internships, activities, projects, volunteer work, travel, etc., that is similar to the duties required of the job? 

Cover Letter Structure

As a business letter, the cover letter should include:

• Heading: Include your name and contact information in the same format as your resume
• Salutation: Address your letter to the specific individual who can hire you, if this is known. If the name is not included in the job description, address the letter to the Hiring Manager or title mentioned in the job description.
• Body Paragraphs:  Discuss your experiences, interests, and skills to show the employer how you can add value to their team. See the section below for more guidance.
• Signature Line: Include a closing and your name.

The cover letter should be one page, about three or four paragraphs, and single spaced. Use 10-12 point font and one inch margins. 

When applying online, upload your cover letter as a PDF file, unless another format is specified. When sending your resume and cover letter by email, you may write a short note or paste your cover letter in the body of your email (without the address header) and also attach the PDF file.

Cover Letter Content

Your cover letter should answer who, what, when, where and why you are applying for the opportunity. 

Introduction

State the position for which you are applying. If you have a referral or spoke with someone from the company, you can mention it in the introduction. Provide some basic information about yourself; this can include your class year and what you’re studying at Columbia. Briefly outline why you’re interested in the organization and what you bring in terms of relevant experience and skills. 

Body Paragraphs

These paragraphs will highlight your qualifications and strengths that are most relevant to the organization and position. Use the job posting and your research as clues to determine what the employer is seeking in a candidate. Have your resume beside you and reflect on what you want the employer to know about you. Are there experiences you want to expand upon that demonstrate your understanding of the role and ability to do the job requirements?

Structure the paragraphs based on relevance, not chronology. Lead with your most relevant skill or strongest experience.

Start each body paragraph with a clear topic sentence.  This can highlight a key skill set, a transferable experience, or a core area of knowledge you’ve built through your studies. Walk the reader through a project or experience, integrating the relevant skills you used and qualities you demonstrated. Provide details about your accomplishments and impact. Connect how these experiences have prepared you for this role and why you are motivated to do this job. There is no need to apologize if you feel you lack experience; focus on the accomplishments that you have.

Recap what you would bring to the organization and your interest in the position. Thank the employer for their consideration. Keep your tone positive and enthusiastic. 

Check out our example of how to structure your cover letter content . 

Editing Tips

Use our  Cover Letter Checklist to make sure your format and content is in line with best practices. 

• Ensure that the content reflects the requirements in the job description
• Keep the cover letter concise, at one page or less
• Correct any errors in grammar, sentence structure, and spelling
• Use the active voice
• Avoid beginning too many sentences with “I”

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Create a Resume / Cover Letter

Create a resume and cover letter, when should you start developing your resume.

It is never too early to start putting together your resume. Often, students wait to start the resume writing process until they are looking for an internship or full-time job.

Waiting until the last minute can result in a rushed and stressful experience. Start crafting your resume now so that you can quickly and easily capture your current experiences.

Where should you start?

Click on the resources below.

Once you have reviewed the online resources, please email [email protected] to make an appointment.

Resume Example

Career resources.

Resume Guide

One of the best ways to start writing your resume is to think big picture about your experiences.

Job hunt on the go.  

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News & Advice

20 Tips on How to Write a Resume

When you come to write a resume, you need to spend more than the two minutes that you spend reading this article to research your approach. While we have created these 20 tips, here is a far more in-depth “ how to write a resume ” guide – that is 52 minutes well spent!

We would like to share some general tips around resume writing. As with much job search advice, many of them are common sense, but in the brain fog of a job search they are worth repeating. Do the basics and do them well.

Get all the key info onto the front page.  40% of job seekers will opt for a two-page resume, so choose a resume template that puts your core selling points in the first page.

Include a hyperresource_location to resource_locationedIn.  Most resumes should have a resource_location to your resource_locationedIn. Spell the hyperresource_location in full as resource_locations may not always work or the person may be reading a print-out.

Have both PDF and Word documents ready to go.  There is nothing worse than having to do last-minute editing. Some employers request one or the other. Use a resume builder.

Avoid emojis. Stay on the safe side.  Yes, increasing amounts of people are using emojis on their resume. It may become mainstream, but until that point, we would advise against it.

A resume with symbols is okay though.  Using symbols and icons on your resume is acceptable, but you run the risk of the ATS system not picking up on vital information.

Tailor the summary for each role.  Change at least 20% of your resume summary for each role. Tailor the application – write it for each individual hiring manager.

Write a reverse chronological resume.  Only opt for another format if you are a recent graduate or career changer who wishes to emphasize relevant skills over work experience.

Create bullets starting with action verbs in the past tense.  Directed, facilitated, monitored, etc. In this way you get straight to the heart of the action without any additional waffle.

Share what you did and why it mattered to you.  While a cover letter is the main vehicle for showcasing your personality, try to share your “why” wherever possible within a resume.

Don’t mention responsibilities – only achievements.  Most candidates can (and will) create a list of past responsibilities that fit the job description. But were they any good at the job?

Don’t be afraid to give a reason for an employment gap.  It is often better to address an employment gap (over 6-9 months) in a resume. You can also only list years of employment.

Focus on hard skills in the skills section.  Your soft skills should come across within the achievements that you share. Hard skills are easier to quantify – only pick the rare ones.

Start the stories that you wish to tell at an interview.  Do not include anything in your resume that you would not wish to expand upon during an interview. Be selective.

Share your education, no matter how long ago it was.  The education section of a resume is an essential book end to your career. Share the details – ideally with GPA or equivalent.

Tell a career story of continuous development.  Try to make it clear that you are on a continuing path of growth. Build to a crescendo towards the point of looking for a new role.

Include keywords for the ATS, but don’t overdo it.  If your most recent job titles and experiences are a rough fit for the role, then you should pass the initial ATS test.

Have a look at example resumes for inspiration.  The internet is full of example resumes for all sorts of occupations. Most are pretty decent, so adopt the best bits for yourself.

Don’t include references.  You might wish to include a line such as “references on request”, but it is obvious that references will be requested when the time comes. It wastes space.

Only quantify with numbers if they are genuinely impressive.  It is advisable to quantify achievements, but only do it if they numbers will set you apart from the competition.

Sleep on it before you send it off.  Never (ever) send your resume off to an employer if you sense you are rushing. Those last-minute changes could make all the difference.

As mentioned, these tips are merely scratching the surface. Everyone’s situation is different, so take every piece of advice and ask yourself whether it applies to you. Be deliberate when you write your resume – you often only get one chance to get it right.

How To Include Volunteer Work on Your Resume

Unpaid volunteering roles can reveal much about a graduate’s character.

While the barriers to entry for volunteering roles are lower, the fact that you are giving up your precious time for a worthy cause is laudable. It can also provide an extra dimension to your experience – on a resume that may not be packed with examples of paid work.

Whether you are an early-career professional, recent graduate, or current student, including volunteer work in your resume could make all the difference in setting you apart from your competition. How have these experiences made a difference to your career trajectory?

Volunteer work should not be an afterthought in your early career story.

Let’s explore why employers of high-potential talent value it so highly:

Why is volunteering work so impactful on a resume?

Because volunteer work is easier to secure, your choice of activity will speak volumes for your work preferences and career ambitions. Working in hospitality roles (etc.) to earn some money is not a choice for many students, so your volunteering activity will allow an employer to understand your true nature. Share your volunteering activities with pride and tell your future employer how they contributed to your development.

Not every student has a fixed idea of what they wish to do with their careers early on, so while initial internships and casual work might not be an ideal fit for their eventual career path, volunteering choices in their final years of education should allow them to show their future employer exactly where they are aiming. Even a few months of volunteering in the time immediately leading up to your job search can shift perceptions.

What sort of volunteer work could you include?

Ideally, the volunteer work should be loosely connected with the industry in which you hope to work and the degree that you studied at university. Potential employers want to understand that they are part of a deliberate career plan, so share your volunteering experiences with the sense that the job in question is your logical next step. Here are a few common areas for volunteer work:

• Environmental.  Environmental conservation, farm work, climate activist, agriculture.
• Animals.  Pet sitter, animal rescue, wildlife restoration, marine conservation.
• Social.  Teaching, mentoring, youth work, community development, fundraising.
• Healthcare.  Elderly or disabled care, counselling, holistic centers, hospital volunteer.
• Sports.  Sports coach, umpire, personal trainer, disability sports, team logistics.

There is a lot of variety over and above this list. What have you done in the past that could be seen as useful for your choice of future career? You never quite know the interests of your future boss, so make sure that you share your volunteer experiences with passion.

Here is an example of how fundraising efforts might be shared on your resume:

Volunteer fundraiser – Stop Dementia

• Coordinated a team of 5 street fundraisers over a 3-month period
• Collected $75k – a 42% uplift on the previous fundraising tally
• Launched a social media presence and local Facebook group

Where can you list volunteer work?

To be clear, volunteer work does not need to be listed in a separate resume section – simply make it clear that it is not paid employment. So long as it is relevant to the job in question, it has every right to be in the work experience / employment history section. Establish trust at the beginning of the recruitment process by being honest about what was paid and unpaid employment – don’t be tempted to misrepresent the nature of your activity.

If the volunteer work was not directly related to your career, there is the viable option of a separate volunteering section. You might think that a long list of unpaid roles in the voluntary section reflects poorly on your candidature, but it is more important to an employer what you learned and how you developed.

One last thing: Don’t Be Tempted to Not Be Truthful

As volunteer experience might not be paid employment, some people might thing that it is less of a misdemeanor to exaggerate your involvement. In fact, the rules around referencing for paid roles are far more restrictive, so it is easier to get a more extensive reference for a volunteering role. Do not lie about it – in the small world of social media it only takes a quick message for a future boss to verify your claims.

Every worthy graduate or early career professional should be able to list some relevant work experience on their resume.

If you have not got anything to share, have a look for something that you can do on your weekends right now. At least you can then have something current to share.

Including volunteer work on your early-career resume is essential.

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Resume Guidelines and Samples

Resume Samples

Purpose of resume (overview), resume header, education section of resume, experience section of resume, skills section of resume, resume checklist.

Download resume guidelines as a pdf List of resume action verb How to write effective resume bullets

How to have your resume reviewed

• 4 Resume Samples  (PDF format)  
• Sasha Cazenove
• Seona Bates
• Sierra Tower
• Sophie McAfee

Your resume is generally a one-page document that clearly presents your current and past experiences and accomplishments so that your reader can understand the unique value that you bring to the table. As you begin to draft your resume, consider the following. Your resume is:

• Your first opportunity to make an impression. Step back from the details to consider what story you want to communicate.
• Foremost, about the content and demonstrating your experiences. Begin by writing your resume in Google docs or Word, and avoid using templates that focus on form over content.
• A living document that you will tailor to specific positions and will evolve throughout your career.
• Not a laundry list of every experience; it is a carefully curated list of relevant experiences. 
• Easy to read. Consider font type and size, formatting, and a balance of text and white space.
• Shared with potential employers as a pdf document.

The header provides your full name and contact information (email address & telephone number). This section should not include personal information (e.g., sex, date of birth, marital status). Items that may be included in your header:

• Wellesley and/or home address: If you choose both, be sure to label each address accordingly. 
• Personal website, links to professional social media (Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn) 

If you are a current student or recent alumna, the education section should be just below the heading, with the most recent education listed first. Generally, you should not include your high school on your resume; however, first-year college students may include relevant high school experiences. Necessary information includes:

• Your institution and its location (City/Town and State) 
• Your degree (Bachelor of Arts), any major(s) and/or minor(s) 
• Expected graduation date. 
• Optional: Study abroad programs and institutions where you cross-registered for classes. 

In this section, provide details about your various experiences, highlighting accomplishments, learning outcomes, and transferable skills. “Experience” is broadly defined and can include full- or part-time work, summer jobs, internships, research, academic projects, campus leadership, volunteer opportunities, etc. Describe your experiences using strong, specific verbs, and emphasize the results and impact of your work. You can create separate and distinct Experience sections to highlight those positions or skills (e.g., Research, Leadership, Extracurricular, or Volunteer). 

• List experiences in reverse chronological order (most recent first). 
• Include name and location of the organization where this experience took place and the title of your role. 
• Include start and end date for your experience. If it is ongoing, list your end date as “Present.” 
• Describe your experience in accomplishment statements, using short phrases starting with a strong verb. Be specific and quantify your experiences whenever you can. 
• Create 2-5 accomplishment statements for each experience. 

This section provides an immediate view of the kinds of tasks you are ready to undertake. While you will want to be selective and only list relevant skills, these might range from technical skills, like expertise using a digital tool, to experience-based skills, like project management or database design. This section can also include certifications, languages, etc. In general, it’s best to avoid general skills like people skills, time management or critical thinking. As this section grows, you may divide it into several distinct skills sections, like Software Expertise, Language Skills, Teaching Skills, Design Skills, etc.

Is your resume... 

☐ Easy to read? 

☐ Simple, clean font (e.g. Times, Arial, Garamond) 

☐ 10 to 12 pt. font 

☐ 0.5 to 1 in. margins 

☐ Error free (grammar & spelling)? 

☐ Devoid of personal pronouns (I, me, my, we)? 

☐ Concise? 

☐ Reverse chronological? 

☐ Tailored to the type(s) of opportunities you are seeking?

Does your resume… 

☐ Effectively communicate your relevant skills and experience? 

☐ Effectively communicate your personal brand? 

☐ Use consistent formatting for dates, job accomplishments, etc.? 

☐ Display your strongest or most relevant qualifications near the top of the page or section? 

☐ Highlight all your related/transferable experience? 

☐ Utilize action verbs and results-oriented language to describe your experience?

☐  Display on the screen without formatting errors as a pdf attachment?

Related resources

Letters to the Editor: What does Kamala Harris owe the press? Readers on how journalists should cover her

• Copy Link URL Copied!

To the editor: I am not a supporter of former President Trump. I am an independent-leading Democrat, but I believe Vice President Kamala Harris is Teflon. She will say anything you want to hear. (“ Harris shouldn’t talk to the press. That’s our fault ,” column, Aug. 15)

Yes, Harris is running on “vibes” and some very broad policy measures, but her mandate is not clear. Will she continue with President Biden’s foreign policy measures? Does she even have any real policies going ahead?

If the media were honest — and they were not in leading us into thinking Biden was still mentally agile — they would be emphasizing the truth: Harris was not nominated for this job by the people. She did not earn the right to be the Democratic candidate for president.

The nomination should have happened at the Democratic National Convention with numerous candidates participating. Instead of courting conflict, the Democrats chose someone who was safe, whose values fluctuate depending on the weather.

As a voter, I will have to be convinced that Harris deserves this job. Anita Chabria’s commentary pushes the same story several others are trying to sell us: that Harris is seasoned to be president. She is not, and we deserve better.

Isabel Margolin, Amherst, Mass.

To the editor: I was all set to give my opinion that Harris doesn’t need to sit down with the press. If you don’t know her and her policies by now, that’s on you.

And then I read the second half of Chabria’s column, about journalists being info-plumbers. Chabria is dead right here.

We need a good plumber to clean out the crap politicians spew. But, to continue the metaphor, journalists for the past nine years have been crappy at their jobs.

We need them to call out politicians (and I am thinking of one politician in particular here) to their face when they lie. Don’t let them walk all over you. Don’t fact check and whine about it afterward.

We need you to roll up your sleeves, get down in the muck and step up to your job.

Janet Dooley, Fawnskin, Calif.

To the editor: I’m no Trumper, but at least the orange man has press conferences and takes on the challenges of the campaign with interviews.

As we enter a probable war in the Middle East along with nuclear threats, shouldn’t we know more about where she stands on the likes of the Gaza Strip and Ukraine? You know, the issues, not just coconut jokes and TikTok takes?

It’s only months before an election in which the Democrats say they’re “saving democracy.” What’s up?

Andrew Liberman, Santa Monica

More to Read

Letters to the Editor: The Half Dome cables aren’t safe. Nothing in Yosemite is. Get over it

Aug. 13, 2024

Letters to the Editor: Laguna Beach learns the truth about tourism: It kills quality of life

Aug. 18, 2024

Letters to the Editor: Want to make Half Dome safer? Remove the climbing cables for good

Aug. 11, 2024

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Letters to the Editor: Uh-oh, the press is reverting to 2016-style campaign coverage

Aug. 20, 2024

Letters to the Editor: The DNC protests show the folly of our two-party system

Letters to the Editor: Richard Alatorre never lost his ‘visceral compassion for barrio folks’

Letters to the Editor: Bottled water is a con. Tap water is fine, get a filter if you’re worried

Aug. 19, 2024

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GEA 2024-25 SY: K-8th Grades Music Teacher at Global Education Academy

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Multiple subject teaching credential. Cleared TB test. CPR Certification. Transcripts. Please attach cover letter, resume, letters of reference, and teaching credential.

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