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5 Teacher Cover Letter Examples & Templates for 2024

• Teacher Cover Letter
• Elementary Teacher
• Art Teacher
• Special Education Teacher
• AP English Teacher
• Writing Your Teacher Cover Letter 101

Teachers’ duties extend far beyond the 8 to 4 school day, encompassing lesson planning, grading, parent communication, faculty meetings, and guiding student extracurriculars. 

The challenge of finding a new teaching position and the requirement to write a cover letter in addition to your teacher resume can seem daunting given your already full schedule.

We’re here to assist you in your job hunt with five teacher cover letter examples and a comprehensive guide. While it’s impossible to highlight every accomplishment, our resources, which include a free cover letter generator , are designed to help you effectively showcase your strengths and demonstrate to principals and departments why you’re the ideal candidate for the position.

Teacher Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Copy this text for your Teacher cover letter!

123 Pretend Lane Belleville, MI 48111 (123) 456-7890

January 12, 2023

Shaunna Li Belleville High School Principal 501 West Columbia Avenue Belleville, MI 48111

Dear Ms. Li: Belleville High School’s call for teachers who can relate to the pain points of students is why I am motivated to establish a welcoming classroom, foster healthy relationships with students, and lead by example in the geometry teacher position. While a 2014 study cites that only 16 percent of students graduate with proficiency in math, my unique methodology has seen 34 percent of my students master proficiency, and of that number, 17 percent have pursued STEM careers.

My methodology revolves around one central point—showing students why they should care about math. My personal love for math grew out of the recognition that math could be used to solve real-world problems; it is the same for students today. Once they recognize that math is foundational to many fields, including trades, finance, engineering, and so many others, students get excited with the possibilities of the doors math can open for them.

Math can be tedious and frustrating, and the subject does not register easily for many students; this is why you may see me collaborating with the chemistry teacher to lead our classes through a NASA-inspired rocket project or partnering with shop classes to witness students enjoying the reward of their hard work and creations. It is often that students do not actually realize they have relied on math until we debrief in class.

Solving students’ pain points is more than acknowledging their existence. To me, pain points are a starting point to discovery. I firmly believe that some of the most challenging endeavors have the power to yield the most fruitful results. If these results speak to you, I am eager to share more of what my non-traditional classroom looks like and what you can expect from Belleville’s students and from me as their geometry instructor.

Thank you for your consideration,

Marcus DeWitt

Enclosures: Resume Application Transcripts

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Elementary Teacher Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Elementary Teacher cover letter!

123 Pretend Lane Newark, NJ 07103 (123) 456-7890

Bryson Thatcher KIPP Rise Academy Principal 21 Ashland Street Newark, NJ 07103

• Dear Mr. Thatcher:

Responding to KIPP’s core belief that knowledge is power, I am inspired to join the ranks of creative and out-of-the-box thinkers as your next fifth-grade teacher at Rise Academy. I welcome the opportunity to team-teach with another innovative instructor and learning specialists as I value the high-level learning that results when multiple ideas connect and unite for a common cause.

I have served as the reading department head for the past six years, which has equipped me to coach as well as learn from my fellow teachers. The success we have celebrated as a result of our combined efforts—students reading an average of 26 books per year, raising their reading level by a grade or more, etc. —will only soar with the ability to share a classroom with passionate educators.

Additionally, if you look at my track record, you will find me wherever students are. From volunteering to sponsor grade-level field trips and activities to working beside parents for fundraisers, student advocacy is a responsibility I take seriously. Shaping tomorrow’s leaders is only possible when students and families believe that teachers are on their side; together, we are unified and strong.

With over 50 percent of your student population entering Rise below grade level, I am impressed by the academy’s ability to transform young minds so profoundly that by the time they reach high school, they perform just as well as peers statewide. I am sincerely excited about the potential to be part of this transformation process, and I welcome the opportunity to discuss my experience and qualifications with you further. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to our next conversation.

Best regards,

Clayton Reid

Enclosures: Resume Application

Art Teacher Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Art Teacher cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85001 (123) 456-7890

November 20, 2023

Ava Davis Scottsdale Unified School District 123 Fictional Lane Phoenix, AZ 85001

Dear Ms. Davis:

I’m inspired by Scottsdale Unified School District’s steadfast commitment to fostering creativity and providing a diverse artistic education for students. Witnessing young minds grasp artistic skills and express their vibrant personalities through art is what truly drives me. Today, I can’t wait to bring my passion, creativity, and teaching prowess to your district as an art teacher.

Over the last four years, I’ve taught drawing and sketching at Phoenix Center for the Arts to students aged 6 to 18. My guidance led to a 32% increase in program enrollment, inviting a whole new lot of budding artists. Using tools like Procreate, SketchBook, and various drawing media, I helped students build diverse skill sets and boost their artistic confidence.

Before that, I worked as a printmaker at Creative Printing & Packaging. I mastered printmaking, applying it to custom designs for clients and increasing the center’s clientele by 17% through workshops and events. My expertise grew in multiple printing techniques, such as etching, relief, and screen printing, where I took on expansive projects in lithography and silkscreen art.

My artistic journey kicked off as a mural painter, where I poured my heart into designing and painting commissioned murals across Phoenix. This wasn’t just about livening up buildings; it involved closely collaborating with local businesses and communities to create public art that resonated with Phoenix’s cultural spirit. These mural projects transformed mundane, overlooked spaces into vibrant, inspiring landmarks, leading to an average increase in foot traffic by 12%.

My diverse artistic talents, complemented by my dedication to fostering creativity, align perfectly with Scottsdale Unified School District’s vision for art education. I’m eager to discuss how my expertise can help inspire your students to discover and express their artistic abilities.

Kaito Yamamoto

Why this cover letter works

• Metrics bring your accomplishments to life, painting a vivid picture of your effectiveness for the role. For instance, Kaito reports a 12% increase in foot traffic to his mural projects.

Special Education Teacher Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Special Education Teacher cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Houston, TX 77001 (123) 456-7890

Olivia Jones The Monarch School and Institute 123 Fictional Lane Houston, TX 77001

Dear Ms. Jones:

Being part of a special education classroom and seeing the profound, positive changes in the students sparked my passion for special education. Like the energetic pace of a volleyball match and the infectious spirit of the athletes, I’ve wanted to be part of this transformative journey, and I’ve successfully done so during the past five years. Today, I’m eager to bring my zeal, skills, and experiences to The Monarch School and Institute as a special education teacher.

In my latest senior role as a behavior analyst at Cypresswood Therapy & Counseling in Houston, TX, I used applied behavior analysis to design plans for 34 clients who exhibited challenging behaviors. The strategies, tailored for each client, alleviated problem behaviors and increased skill acquisition by an average of 38%. Here, data collection and analysis were crucial in assessing progress and adjusting interventions.

Previously, as a special education teacher at Crossroads School, I was responsible for leading 19 students, focussing on conducting functional behavior assessments. We devised customized interventions that fostered a significant reduction in disruptive classroom behaviors. During this time, I utilized resources such as Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and progress monitoring tools like DreamClass to gather data and track student progression.

I began my journey in special education as a teaching assistant at Westchester Academy for International Studies. As part of a team, we improved students’ academic performance by 16% within a year. This experience gave me valuable insights into designing a curriculum accommodating diverse needs, reinforcing my passion for this field.

I strongly believe my theoretical knowledge and hands-on experiences, combined with my dedication to inclusive education, position me uniquely for an engaging role at The Monarch School and Institute. I’m eager to discuss how my expertise can contribute to the growth and progress of the students at your esteemed institution.

• Passion equals commitment and even success. Not only does this align with the role she seeks, but it’s also an excellent trick to captivate the recruiter reading your piece.

AP English Teacher Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your AP English Teacher cover letter!

123 Pretend Lane Denton, TX 75065 (123) 456-7890

Kyndra Marque Ryan High School Principal 5101 E McKinney St Denton, TX 76208

Dear Ms. Marque:

With 12 percent of Ryan High’s student population slotted to graduate with honors, I am eager to lead the initiation of the English Advanced Placement program as stated in the job description. With seven years of experience teaching AP courses, I am confident that Ryan High’s students will excel in my classroom and beyond.

Through frequent collaboration with the English department, mentoring and assessing honors students in the National Honor’s Society, honors-level courses, and other honors associations, I have developed strategic methodologies that both determine a student’s ability and willingness to tackle the demanding coursework. While AP standards are rigorous, 92 percent of students who have taken my class have passed the AP English Language and Composition Exam.

Furthermore, I am inspired by Ryan High School’s mission to build lifelong learners who will contribute to society by seeking answers and sharing those answers with the next generation. As a lover of literature, this is why I choose to teach uncomfortable texts, such as Elie Wiesel’s Night, Arthur Miller’s The Crucible, and Carl Sandburg’s poem “Grass.” By building relationships with my students, I successfully facilitate meaningful and real-world connections with them through American and world literature. What students discover in my classroom will impact them for the rest of their lives.

Ultimately, education is much more to me than just teaching the objectives. I believe in cultivating relationships and working with excellence in every area; based on my conversations with the English department head, Ryan High School is just as passionate about education. I look forward to discussing how my skills and qualifications can better serve Ryan High’s honors and AP students. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Stacie Solis

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation

AP English Teacher Resume

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or download as PDF

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Teaching Job

The key to writing your teacher cover letter can be distilled into two main points: don’t be generic and don’t let it become a repeat of your resume. 

Step 1: Don’t skimp on researching the teaching role

Just as you want to tailor your resume to the school where you want to work and to its accompanying  teacher job description , you should do the same with your cover letter. Sure, this requires extra research, but what’re 20 or 30 minutes when this effort can pay off in dividends? Not only will research ensure your cover letter is relevant—not vague and generic—it’ll also prepare you well for common  teacher interview questions .

Additionally, leverage your research to demonstrate a real interest in the role you’re applying for as well as in the school itself.

• Discuss how your commitment to standardized testing has improved students’ performance at other schools.
• Share how Google Classroom has transformed your STEM projects.

Step 2: Go beyond your teaching resume

Addressing the specific needs and concerns mentioned in the job description will have the desired effect  as long as you go beyond what you included in your resume . Mentioning that you’re a rock star at using Google Classroom isn’t enough; principals have  already  gathered that from your resume bullet points and  skills section .  

This is your opportunity to specifically share what you’ve done with Google Classroom. Many teachers set up Google Classroom for their students but don’t get around to using it. What have you done that sets the standard for every teacher following you? This is when quantifying your experience becomes exceptionally valuable. 

• Demonstrate how this resource has decreased late submissions by 53 percent.
• What did you do exactly to accomplish such a feat? One-on-one tutoring, an after-school club, unique teaching methodologies?

Step 3: Convey the right message

Beyond specific and descriptive paragraphs in your teacher cover letter, keep your document  at  or less than a page. Eliminate wordiness and avoid pleasantries. Be sincere and gracious, but, really, no one likes a teacher’s pet.   

So, consider your tone of voice. Be professional, avoiding clichés, contractions, colloquialisms, and the like. Remember you’re applying for a teaching position, not a quirky tech startup.

Consider your tone. Remember you’re applying for a teaching role, not a quirky tech startup.

And when you think your cover letter is ready to go, hold up! You’re, indeed, almost at the finish line, but what is it you tell your students to do before they submit an essay (which they inevitably  never  do)? 

Yep—it’s time to practice what you preach. Invite a few people you trust to review your cover letter and offer constructive criticism while your eyes and brain rest. Then, return to your work, consider the feedback, and scour for any last content issues and spelling and grammar errors. Make revisions, save your document, and send your best teacher cover letter to the principal and hiring department with your resume, application, and any other requested materials.

Your Teacher Cover Letter Format & Outline

Now, if you’re staring at a blinking cursor on a blank document, not sure how to make the examples and steps work for you, don’t fret. It’ll come together beautifully like a perfectly executed lesson plan.

You just need a comprehensive outline that breaks the cover letter for a teaching position into distinct sections, making it easy to understand what to include in each part.

How to start a teacher cover letter

Your contact info: If you’re using a template, fill in the letterhead to suit your needs. Just ensure you replace all filler text and don’t accidentally exclude critical information like your name, email, and phone number. 

• Formatting:  If you write a block business letter rather than use a template, including your address is standard. Additionally, while your name will be prominently displayed on a letterhead on a template, a basic but professional block letter should omit your name (the principal will find your name easily in your signature line).

Date:  If you write your cover letter today but don’t submit it until next week, edit the date, to reflect the day you submit the letter and other career documents for the specific teaching role. 

• Formatting:  Write out the full date, e.g. January 12, 2023.

Inside address:  This is the contact information for the principal or hiring department at the school. Name the specific person; then, include the school and position title, e.g., Ryan High School Principal. Complete this section with the school’s address.

• Formatting:  Each piece of the inside address should be on a new line. You’ll want a double space between the inside address and the greeting. 

Kyndra Marque Ryan High School Principal  5101 E McKinney St Denton, TX 76208

Greeting:  Your goal is to start on the right foot with your principal, so avoid issuing a generic greeting, also known as a salutation, like:

• Dear Principal,
• Dear Hiring Department,
• To Whom it May Concern:

While it can take some sleuth skills to track down the name of the hiring manager for some jobs,  most, if not all,  schools have staff listings on their website. You’re already researching the school to help you write an amazing cover letter, so take a couple of extra minutes to put a real name to the greeting:

• Dear Ms. Li:
• Formatting:  Err on the side of caution and use a colon at the end of the greeting. A comma is more casual while a colon denotes professionalism, which will likely serve you best for a teaching role.  

How to write your teacher cover letter

Body:  The body of your teacher cover letter should be three to four brief paragraphs that state your interest, demonstrate your teaching credentials, and convey enthusiasm for further discussion. Let’s break it down further: 

• Formatting:  The body of your teaching cover letter should be single-spaced although you’ll need to double-space between paragraphs.

Opening paragraph:  The goal is simple—state your interest in the position and your overarching credentials that reflect your research for the specific role. While the goal is simple, the execution often leaves little to be desired. Too many teacher cover letters start the same way.

I found your posting online and am interested in filling the English III position. 

No. Just no. Bore the principal and the English department right out of the gate, and they’ll wonder whether you’ll hold the attention of your students. Instead, try:

Not only does this signal that you’ve done your homework and researched the school’s unique standing and areas for growth, this opening paragraph hooks the reader. Clearly, you’re interested in the role, offer valuable experience, and with phrases like “lead the initiation” and “excel in my classroom,” there’s no doubt you’re confident and capable.

Paragraphs 2-3:  If you can squeeze in the third paragraph, we recommend it as each paragraph is an opportunity to demonstrate indisputable evidence of the credentials and qualifications you boldly state in your opening paragraph. 

Each paragraph should not be a repeat of your resume; rather, each paragraph should hone in on  one  clear accomplishment, be it the results of your teaching methodology, values, or something else. Don’t try to tackle multiple topics in a paragraph. Be detailed, specific, and quantify your results when possible. 

Closing paragraph:  Clench an interview with this final paragraph. Now’s not the time to lay your head on your desk and call it a day. Don’t let this be your closing paragraph:

I believe I am the perfect candidate for this teaching position, and I look forward to hearing back from you soon. 

At best, it exudes laziness. At worst, no one will believe you’re actually interested in the job but just need something to put beans on the table. 

Instead, demonstrate that your unique values and qualifications align with the school’s needs, which will indicate a genuine interest in the role— even if you are  desperate to put beans on the table.

Finally, add a call to action that anticipates a follow-up or interview. With the following closing paragraph, it’s clear that teaching is far more to you than just a job:

Solving students’ pain points is more than acknowledging their existence. To me, pain points are a starting point to discovery. I firmly believe that some of the most challenging endeavors have the power to yield the most fruitful results. If these results speak to you, I am eager to share more of what my non-traditional classroom looks like and what you can expect from Belleville’s students and from me as their geometry instructor.  

How to end a teacher cover letter

Signature:  While you can include your gratitude at the end of the closing paragraph, you can also express thanks when you sign off. Keep it professional, and use your real name here just as you will on your resume and application form. 

• Formatting:  Typically, you’ll send your cover letter to the principal’s email; however, if you deliver your career docs in person or—gasp—by mail, be sure to quadruple space and sign your name in blue or black ink between your closing line and typed name.

Marcus DeWitt 

Enclosure(s):  This is important, and most job seekers, including teachers, fail to include it. “Enclosure(s)” means that more documents follow your cover letter.

What information would that be? Well, hopefully, your  teacher resume , likely the school’s application, potentially your teaching license, also your college transcripts, and maybe even a reference letter or two, depending on the requirements detailed in the  teacher job ad . 

After your signature, you’ll include “Enclosure(s),” followed by the exact documents in order of appearance. 

• Formatting:  Use the singular form of “enclosure” if you’re only including one document. Also, include each additional document on a new line. 

See, including this final section is literally easier than writing your own address. Include it, and automatically set yourself apart from other teachers vying for the same role. 

Finish Strong with Your Teacher Resume

Now, that you’ve got the tools to confidently wow principals and departmental heads with your teacher cover letter, have you considered the current state of your resume? Maybe you’ve already updated and polished it, and if that’s you, kudos to you—you’re ahead of the game! 

If you’re blowing out an exaggerated breath because you’ve relegated your resume to the nether regions of your mind, we get it. But teacher resumes are judged more harshly than most. Hiring teams don’t cut a lot of slack when they’re looking for talent who will teach their students to communicate, read, and write well.   

So, if it’s time to think seriously about re-writing or, let’s face it,  writing  your resume  from scratch, take a page from us (literally) and get inspired with our  free resume templates  and  teacher resume examples  like the one below.

Elementary Teacher Resume

Need a resume to pair with your elementary teacher cover letter?

Your career documents are a pain in the tush, we know, but think of us as your biggest cheerleaders. With our  AI resume builder ,  Google resume templates ,  Word resume templates , and expert-approved guidance, your teacher resume and cover letter are sure to win you interviews and secure your next role, where you just might earn Teacher of the Year at your next school. 

Every school you apply to will likely have slightly different teaching styles, cultures, and objectives they would like to achieve throughout the year. You can use your cover letter to connect your previous experiences to their mission and goals. For instance, if you volunteered for an early-age reading program, that would be a great experience to connect when applying to a K-5 position where the school wants to improve student reading scores.

Ideally, you want to match your tone to the feel of each school’s job description. Does the school have a very formal and knowledgeable tone in the description? Then being more formal and factual about your knowledge and experiences in different teaching styles they emphasize would be a great idea. For example, citing factual information about how you used hybrid learning to create 75% higher material retention in math subjects would work well in this instance.

Try to address your cover letter to a specific person in the school. Typically, this will be a principal, superintendent, or human resources hiring manager that would be reviewing teacher resumes . Check through the job description to see if a specific name is listed who will be reviewing applications, or review the school’s website for this information. If you can’t find anything, you can simply address it to “[Name of school] hiring staff” or something similar.

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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

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

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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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Teacher cover letter example

As a teacher, you spend countless hours preparing your students to succeed in school and the world beyond. Your passion for education means you’re invested in your classroom and the quality of the lesson plans you create. 

The pandemic has created an even bigger teacher shortage that has not abated, the Washington Post reported. If you’ve held off returning to the classroom but are now ready, you may find you have a choice about where and what you teach. Across the country and around the world, principals are looking for candidates with the teaching experience to motivate students and manage rowdy classrooms. So how do you connect with them? During the hiring process, your resume can only explain so much. That’s why a well-crafted, attention-grabbing cover letter is an essential tool for landing you your next teaching position. 

A cover letter that demonstrates the right qualities will have a principal singing your praises. Bonus tip: patience, enthusiasm, flexibility and the ability to take feedback are some of the most sought-after traits for new teachers. Imagine you have a job interview for a position at a new school. You have a great resume, but you show up 15 minutes late, don’t make eye contact and forget to ask the principal any questions. Are you still going to get the job? Maybe, but it seems less certain, doesn’t it? That’s because you dashed your chances by ignoring the proper conventions of the hiring process. 

You can do the same with your initial application by failing to submit a cover letter or creating one that is not professional and doesn’t follow standard formatting rules. That’s why putting care and attention into creating a great cover letter is a smart idea – it directly increases your odds of landing the job.

This guide, along with our professional teacher cover letter sample, will:

• Outline, in detail, the essential elements of a good cover letter  (header, greeting, intro, body and conclusion)
• Equip you with proven psychological tips and tricks to use in your own letter
• Alert you to what mistakes to avoid when writing your teacher cover letter
• Demonstrate the purpose of a strong cover letter format.

Psst, here’s some extra credit: If you haven’t finished creating an A+ resume, we’ve got plenty of resources for that. Start with our teacher resume samples, resume templates and general resume writing guide.

Best format for a teacher cover letter example

It often helps to present your arguments and tell your story when there is a logical cover letter format. A hiring manager or principal will be expecting these 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 sign-off)

Dear Principal Wilson,

Newton’s first law of motion states that an object will stay at rest until a force acts upon it.

Two decades of seeing 500+ science students graduate from Ivy League universities tells me that my “force” is indeed helping to develop the scientific minds of tomorrow. I hope to bring this experience to the advertised science position at Jefferson High School.

As the subject lead for a district of 18 schools, I facilitated the creation of learning materials and oversaw an improvement of graduation rates by 10% across the district over a four-year period. In my school, the graduation rate averaged 99%. I believe in the power of learning through experiment rather than theory – showing beats telling every time. Innovative approaches often bring new discoveries.

I have been active in creating online lessons for my students and believe that blended learning is the future of education. We might not be with our students as they are doing their homework, but we can send them a recorded online video to explain things. Being able to rewind a video is an amazing way to check understanding.

Jefferson HS values are close to my heart, and it was actually one of your current faculty who suggested that I apply for the role. I look forward to the opportunity of learning more about your staff and students and hope that I might be able to contribute to their success. In the school experiment, every curious young mind matters.

Yours sincerely,

Grace McKenna

Within that format, a teacher cover letter should give an overview of your teaching pedagogy, experience, and philosophy. It’s the unit plan for your career, just as your teacher resume functions more as a lesson plan.

The comprehensive cover letter guide offers more general advice about how to go about compiling cover letters, but below you will find specific advice on how to maximize the effectiveness of each specific letter paragraph and section. Our cover letter samples give you a great idea of how all these pieces fit together.

Similar cover letter examples from the same field:

• Scholarship
• Library Assistant 
• Elementary teacher
• Substitute Teacher 
• Teaching Assistant 
• Apprenticeship

Cover letter header

A teacher cover letter header might seem like a formality you can do without, but in reality the header serves a big purpose, both in function and aesthetics. Quite simply, the header introduces the applicant’s name and contact information in a bold way.

The header also allows the hiring manager to refer to that information at any point. The letter may also circulate within the HR department, so it’s important that everyone who comes across it knows who it belongs to and how they can get in touch. 

In the past, the physical mailing address of the applicant was commonplace on a cover letter. Nowadays, you can include your name, phone number and email address, along with a date and the hiring manager’s name (if known), as well as the company name and address. If you really want to strip back the header, you may opt to include just your name and contact info. 

The goal of this section: Identify the document, keep your name and contact info at the hiring manager’s fingertips, create visually appealing formatting.

Take a look at our cover letter examples to find the perfect header for your purposes.

Cover letter greeting / salutation

Your greeting will likely contain less than five words, but they’ve got to be the right ones. A teacher cover letter greeting that is too formal or too casual will leave a hiring manager or principal shaking their head as they start to read your letter. 

The first thing to consider when choosing a greeting is your profession. School systems are fairly formal institutions when compared to, let’s say, a startup tech company or a local coffee shop. In this case, “Dear” followed by a name and a comma is the safest option and likely your best bet. It’s important to use Mr., Mrs. or Ms. followed by a last name. In the education field, watch out for a principal who might be Dr. – the school’s website or LinkedIn may help answer that question. 

The goal of this section: Use the professionally appropriate greeting to set the right tone. Develop rapport with the principal by using his or her name, if you have it.

People love hearing their own name. It’s true of any relationship, personal or business. That’s why conventional cover letter wisdom says to find the name of the hiring manager and address your letter directly to them. It’s solid advice and shows that you care enough to do your homework about the company. But what does that look like for teaching positions? In some states and counties, hiring is done by a team of HR professionals who then forward the best resumes to principals for review. In smaller districts, the principals themselves may evaluate candidates directly. A polite phone call may help to answer this question. 

If it becomes clear your letter will be read by a team of hiring managers, you might opt for a more general greeting, along the lines of “Dear Calvert County Public Schools Hiring Team,” or shorter – “Dear CCPS Hiring Team,”. If you know your letter will land on the principal’s desk eventually, you can include his or her name, too: “Dear Dr. Wilkens and CCPS Hiring Team." In general, it's best to avoid the cold and impersonal sounding "To Whom It May Concern." A collective noun usually works much better in these situations.

Cover letter introduction

Your teacher cover letter introduction is the hook and the best place to lure a principal into reading on. Sentences like “I am writing to express interest in your vacancy for a physics teaching position at Centennial High School” can come across as rigid and outdated. 

Adding some excitement through a personal anecdote about a teaching success can inject some personality and highlight your skillset right from the top. Just make sure to keep the story time short to hold the reader’s attention into the body. 

The goal of this cover letter sample section: create a snappy and grabbing introduction to your personality and experience in a sentence or two.

Cover letter middle paragraphs

If you’ve got the introduction of your teacher cover letter just the way you like it, the body should flow from there. The anecdotal opening sets you up for a slam dunk by allowing you to expand on your skills and achievements in a natural way. 

Before too long, you should mention the role you’re applying to and why you’re the perfect match, including previous achievements that give clear evidence of your skills. The STAR/CAR method (Situation, Task, Action, positive Result) can help you organize your writing to capture the impact you had on student performance. Your soft skills, passion and personality can continue to shine in this section and you may choose to demonstrate hard skills that set you above your peers by explaining innovative classroom approaches you’ve taken. 

The goal of this cover letter example section: Explain why you’re the right candidate for the position through past challenges, achievements and personal strategies.

How to finish a teacher cover letter (conclusion and sign-off)

Figuring out how to end your teacher cover letter can be one of the most frustrating parts of the writing experience. You’ve hit the point home in every way you know how to and now you just want to yell “So call me!”  

Luckily, there’s actually a professional way to do this. The call to action is an invitation for the hiring manager to get in touch. You can strike the balance between friendly and firm with a cover letter example sentence like “I look forward to hearing more about Centennial’s staff and students. You can reach me at (your email) or (your phone) with any questions.” A sign off like Sincerely, Best, or Best Regards are the most professionally appropriate for closing your letter. 

The goal of this cover letter sample section: Invite the employer to contact you in a friendly and non-demanding way, sign off politely and leave the reader on a positive, professional note.

Writing psychology: cover letter sample tools and strategies

So far, we’ve talked a lot about using personal anecdotes and examples of problems you’ve handled effectively. Instead of telling a principal that you’re innovative and organized, these stories allow you to show the true impact of your years of experience. But as a teacher, each day is a little different from the previous one. In a single year of teaching, you can easily rack up dozens of moments where you handled challenging situations. So which ones do you pick for your cover letter? One way to approach this question is by taking a look at the behavioral psychology principle of belief matching: People are more likely to respond positively to your message if they first believe you understand their problem.

How to incorporate the empathetic approach

The belief matching technique is most effective when used towards the top of your writing, according to professional marketing expert Joanna Wiebe. Wiebe often uses this technique to drive online sales, but in this case, you are the product. It’s a good idea to start with your strongest anecdote or example from your work experience – the one that you think your prospective principal is mostly likely to relate to. Again, it’s important to keep the story short, straightforward and relevant to ensure success.

Every school is a unique learning environment. If your cover letter can target even just one or two of the primary needs your potential principal faces, you can more effectively help them see the solution – YOU, and your impressive track record of teaching success. You should tailor your letter to the needs of each school using the job description as your starting point. These anecdotes are not just about the past. You should aim to write them in a way that allows a principal to imagine the future – their future, and one where their job is easier because of your contributions to the school.

Teacher cover letter example with no experience

You will not be starting your teaching career without any experience. You have already completed student teaching, so you have managed a classroom before. No, it’s not the same, but it does give you a basis for writing a cover letter.

Use the same format as any teacher cover letter and examine our cover letter sample carefully to give you ideas. Then, focus on your specialty, what you learned during your observations and student-teaching experience and follow our guidelines above.

You may not land in your target district in your first position, but given the teacher shortage, you will be in demand.

Teacher cover letter format and common mistakes

Here are some cover letter tips on how to avoid common writing mistakes:

• A boring letter. As a school teacher, your job is to inject energy and life into a classroom. A bland, generic letter sends a principal the exact opposite message. An application letter that’s full of movement and enthusiasm will give you a much better chance of landing the job.
• Confidential information. It’s essential that you leave out private information about your students or families. Even if the hiring manager doesn’t know of the situation, they’ll likely wonder if you can be trusted with the personal data of your new students.
• Too much personal information. During the job search, your personality counts, however, you want to make sure that you don’t venture off into the domain of Too Much Information. Family life, hobbies and weekend activities are usually best left off a cover letter unless you can directly relate them to teaching or the position.
• Issues with tone, spelling or grammar. Straightforward, punchy sentences will go further than pedagogic jargon. Likewise, spelling and grammar errors leave the hiring manager with a bad taste, especially when hiring a teacher.

How to format to impress

Your formatting is arguably just as important as the content of your application letter. Anyone who reads your letter will first take in the look and feel, font and color scheme before proceeding to the written information. That’s why it’s important to stick with trusted resume standards – san serif font styles like Helvetica or Georgia and a size between 10 and 12 points. You may also consider matching your header formatting to your resume. This is a great way to present a consistent, professional image across all your application materials. It can be a bit tricky to pull off without a graphic design degree, but luckily our collection of templates makes it easy to download a stylish document in a few clicks. 

For more formatting tips, check out this handy guide.

For more formatting tips, check out this handy guide and cover letter examples.

Key takeaways

• Your resume is stronger when paired with a cover letter. The two documents work together to provide an employer with a well-rounded picture of you as a candidate.
• A hiring manager expects to see certain elements on your cover letter. Knowing and following these rules will keep the employer interested and impressed.
• Explaining situations you’ve faced and handled is a great way to prove your skills, especially in an ever-changing profession like teaching.
• Using anecdotes and situations that are familiar to your potential new principal is one way to convince him or her that you’re a great fit for the school.
• Formatting is a key element of a strong cover letter. A template can save you time and allow you to easily match the formatting of your application letter and resume.

Save time and effort by creating the perfect cover letter with resume.io. No guesswork, just get out there and start teaching!

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14 teacher cover letters.

Approved by real hiring managers, these Teacher cover letters have been proven to get people hired in 2024. A hiring manager explains why.

Table of contents

• Special Education Teacher
• Preschool Teacher
• Early Childhood Educator
• Montessori Guide
• Alternative introductions for your cover letter
• Teacher resume examples

Teacher Cover Letter Example

Why this cover letter works in 2024, innovative curriculum development.

The mention of a specific achievement in improving student engagement showcases the candidate's ability to think creatively and adapt their teaching methods to better serve the students they work with. This highlights their commitment to excellence in education.

Social-Emotional Learning Initiative

By sharing the success of the social-emotional learning initiative, the candidate demonstrates their understanding of the importance of a holistic approach to education. This not only highlights their teaching experience, but also their ability to make a positive impact on the school community.

Show Alignment with the Company's Vision

When you mention how you've integrated innovative technologies to enhance the learning process, you're signaling that your teaching philosophy aligns with the company's vision. This shows the employer that you understand their mission and are excited to contribute to it.

Connecting Personal Values to Company Goals

By explicitly stating that your experience aligns with the company's goal of creating a world where everyone can progress through learning, you're not just demonstrating a deep understanding of the company's mission, but also giving them confidence that your personal values align with theirs.

Highlighting Transformational Impact

When you highlight your ability to not just teach, but actively transform the educational landscape, you show yourself as a proactive and driven individual. You're not just a participant in the system, but a game changer. This can really grab a hiring manager's attention.

Showing Enthusiasm for Innovation

Showing your excitement about the innovative aspects of the job position makes you come across as someone who's ready to dive in and contribute. It's a great way to demonstrate your alignment with the company's mission and vision.

Connecting Personal Drive to Job Role

Your eagerness to bring your skills and passion to the table is something that's definitely going to resonate with the hiring team. It tells them that you're not just looking for a job, but a place to make a real difference.

Affinity for Team Collaboration

By stating your interest in collaborating with like-minded people, you're showing your team player spirit. It's a good way to hint at your interpersonal skills and your willingness to work in a team-oriented environment.

Reiteration of Interest

Reiterating your excitement about the job prospect during the closing remarks gives a strong ending to your cover letter. It leaves an impression of a passionate candidate, eager to make a change in the field of education.

Show your passion for early childhood education

When you talk about your passion for the field and how the organization's mission matches your own, it tells us you're not just looking for any job. You're looking for this job.

Highlight your experience with creative lessons

Detailing your hands-on projects like the garden shows you can bring unique and engaging learning experiences to our young students, which is exactly what we're looking for in a preschool teacher.

Demonstrate innovation in teaching

By sharing your success in implementing innovative learning experiences, you illustrate your capability to contribute meaningful and impactful teaching methods to our team.

Value family engagement

Mentioning your efforts to connect with families shows you understand the importance of partnership between teachers and parents in a child's learning journey, which is critical for us.

Express your eagerness to contribute

Ending your letter by reiterating your desire to join our team and contribute to our mission strengthens your application by showing your genuine interest and alignment with our goals.

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Demonstrate your passion for teaching

Starting your cover letter with a declaration of your love for inspiring young minds immediately grabs attention and sets a positive tone for the rest of your application.

Showcase impactful teaching strategies

Providing concrete examples of how your teaching methods have led to increased engagement and parent participation presents you as an effective educator capable of making a significant impact.

Illustrate your commitment to inclusivity

Emphasizing your success in creating inclusive classroom environments highlights your understanding of the importance of diversity and empathy in education, aligning with many schools' values.

Align with the school's educational philosophy

Expressing your alignment with the school's focus on play-based learning and growth opportunities shows you are not only familiar with their approach but are also enthusiastic about contributing to its success.

Convey your eagerness to contribute

Closing your cover letter by expressing your interest in discussing how you can contribute to the community emphasizes your proactive approach and eagerness to be a part of the team.

Show passion for teaching young minds

When you express a strong love for educating and nurturing children, it helps me see your genuine motivation for the job. This passion is crucial for success in early childhood education.

Personal connection makes a difference

A personal story or experience that connects you to the school or its philosophy can make your application stand out. It shows you're not just interested in any job, but you're specifically interested in joining our community.

Highlighting achievements in education

Providing specific examples of your accomplishments, like improving student engagement, offers clear evidence of your ability to make a positive impact in the classroom. This kind of detail is persuasive.

Valuing professional growth and community

Emphasizing your desire for continuous learning and collaboration with colleagues demonstrates that you're a team player and committed to personal and organizational improvement.

Respect and eagerness in closing

Closing your letter with gratitude and a strong interest in contributing positively shows professionalism and respect for the opportunity to make a difference.

Special Education Teacher Cover Letter Example

Highlighting specific achievements.

By mentioning that you've improved students' communication skills by an average of 40% using assistive technology solutions, you're providing a clear and quantifiable example of how you've made an impact in your previous role. This helps the hiring manager understand the tangible results you could potentially bring to their team.

Demonstrating Adaptability and Innovation

When you speak to your ability to adapt and innovate within the educational space, it shows that you're not just a follower of set methods, but someone who's willing to try new approaches to achieve better results. This is particularly valuable in special education where individualized teaching methods are crucial.

Creating Inclusive Environments

When you talk about fostering a positive and inclusive classroom environment, it really speaks to your ability as a Special Education Teacher. It shows that you understand the importance of making each student feel valued and empowered, which is crucial in this field.

Aligning with Company's Approach

Sharing your excitement about the company's innovative approach and commitment shows you've done your homework. It also tells me that you align with their values and mission, which is a big plus.

Offering Specific Expertise

When you express your eagerness to contribute your specific expertise in adaptive teaching strategies and educational technology, it gives an idea of what you can bring to the team. It's not just about being eager, it's about being eager and equipped.

Envisioning Collaboration

You paint a vivid picture of what collaboration in the team would look like, which is both engaging and compelling. It tells the team that you're already thinking about how you fit into their structure and how you can contribute.

Aim for the Bigger Picture

Wrapping up your cover letter with a note about making a meaningful difference in the lives of students is heartwarming and impactful. It talks to your dedication to the mission of Special Education and your vision of working together to achieve it.

Preschool Teacher Cover Letter Example

Connect with the school's mission.

Explaining how KinderCare's focus on a nurturing environment aligns with your teaching philosophy immediately shows us you're a good fit for our culture and values.

Showcase your role in child development

Your experience with play-based learning and curriculum development highlights your understanding of age-appropriate educational strategies, a crucial skill for any preschool teacher.

Emphasize positive parent feedback

Sharing that parents have positively recognized your efforts in communication and empathy proves your effectiveness in building crucial relationships with families, an aspect highly valued in our centers.

Express gratitude and honor

Thanking the reader for considering your application and expressing how honored you would be to join their team adds a respectful and humble tone to your application, making you more likable.

Invite further discussion

Inviting the opportunity to discuss how your skills and experience align with the school's needs shows proactive engagement and eagerness to become part of the team.

Express excitement for the role

Starting your letter with excitement shows you're not just looking for any job, but you're passionate about this specific role as a preschool teacher.

Detail your experience with innovative programs

Discussing the implementation and success of a new program highlights your initiative and ability to contribute valuable ideas, making you stand out as a preschool teacher candidate.

Align with the employer's philosophy

When you show that your teaching philosophy matches the employer's, it suggests a good fit. This alignment is crucial for roles like preschool teachers, where the philosophy shapes every day in the classroom.

Ending your letter by welcoming the opportunity to discuss how you can contribute demonstrates both confidence and openness, qualities important for a preschool teacher.

Close with courtesy

A courteous sign-off is essential, reflecting your ability to end conversations on a positive note, an important skill for interacting with children and parents alike.

Early Childhood Educator Cover Letter Example

Show your passion for early learning.

Highlighting your genuine interest in a school's mission can make your application more compelling. It shows you are not just looking for any job, but are specifically interested in contributing to that institution's unique goals.

Detail your curriculum development skills

Discussing specific programs you've created, like a "STEM Explorers" program, demonstrates your ability to design and implement innovative teaching strategies that enhance students' learning experiences.

Emphasize relationship-building in the classroom

Mentioning your effort to build positive relationships with students and their families underlines your commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment, which is crucial for an early childhood educator.

Express dedication to student well-being

Conveying your excitement to bring dedication and care to a new setting shows your commitment to the emotional and educational well-being of your students, an essential quality for a teacher.

Highlight your enthusiasm to join the team

Ending your cover letter with a strong statement of your desire to make a meaningful difference reinforces your dedication to the field of early childhood education and your eagerness to contribute to the team.

When you express enthusiasm for the job and the employer's good reputation, it shows you care about where you work and what you do. This is key for a preschool teacher role.

Highlight a major achievement

Mentioning a specific success, like leading a project that grew enrollment, demonstrates your ability to make a real difference. It's effective for employers to see your impact quantified.

Value continuous learning

Appreciating an employer's commitment to professional development shows you're someone who seeks to grow and improve, a desirable trait for any preschool teacher.

End with a strong call to action

Expressing eagerness to contribute to the team and make a positive impact invites the hiring manager to envision you in the role, making your application more memorable.

Use a professional sign-off

A polite and respectful closing reinforces your professionalism, a necessary quality for any early childhood educator.

Expressing strong interest in early childhood education

Clearly stating your strong interest in the role and the organization helps me understand your enthusiasm and alignment with our mission right from the start.

Demonstrating knowledge and experience

Discussing your educational background and practical experiences in early childhood education showcases your preparedness and solid foundation in key principles of the field.

Sharing impactful projects and recognition

Mentioning specific projects and external recognition not only highlights your innovative approach to education but also your ability to influence beyond the classroom.

Commitment to nurturing and inclusive learning

Your dedication to fostering curiosity and building partnerships with families emphasizes your holistic approach to education, which is highly valued in early childhood settings.

Professional and eager conclusion

Ending your letter by thanking the reader and expressing eagerness to discuss further demonstrates your professionalism and sincere interest in the position.

Montessori Guide Cover Letter Example

Show your enthusiasm for the montessori guide role.

Starting your cover letter by expressing real excitement for the position helps the hiring manager see your genuine interest. It makes a strong first impression.

Highlight your Montessori classroom skills

When you talk about your ability to create a learning environment that encourages independence and love for learning, it showcases your practical skills and understanding of Montessori principles.

Connect with the school’s values

By mentioning your alignment with the school's commitment to both Montessori practices and innovative professional development, you demonstrate that you're not just looking for any job, but this specific role at this specific institution.

Express your desire to contribute

Stating your goal to contribute to the Montessori community at the school underlines your teamwork mindset and dedication to the educational mission.

Ending your cover letter by looking forward to a discussion about your qualifications opens the door for an interview, showing you're eager and ready to take the next step.

Alternative Introductions

If you're struggling to start your cover letter, here are 6 different variations that have worked for others, along with why they worked. Use them as inspiration for your introductory paragraph.

Cover Letters For Jobs Similar To Teacher Roles

• Elementary Teacher Cover Letter Guide
• High School Teacher Cover Letter Guide
• Preschool Teacher Cover Letter Guide
• Substitute Teacher Cover Letter Guide
• Teacher Cover Letter Guide
• Teacher Assistant Cover Letter Guide

Other Other Cover Letters

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Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

2 Teacher Cover Letter Examples

Teachers are skilled at creating engaging lessons that inspire and educate, turning complex concepts into understandable knowledge. Similarly, your cover letter is your chance to transform your professional journey into an engaging narrative that enlightens recruiters about your skills and dedication. In this guide, we'll delve into the best cover letter examples for Teachers, helping you to craft a compelling story that resonates with your next employer.

Cover Letter Examples

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The best way to start a Teacher cover letter is by directly addressing the hiring manager or principal, if their name is known. Then, introduce yourself and state the teaching position you're applying for. Immediately follow this with a compelling reason why you're interested in the role and the school. This could be something unique about the school's approach to education that aligns with your teaching philosophy. This not only shows that you've done your research, but also that you're genuinely interested in the school and the role. Remember, the opening of your cover letter sets the tone for the rest of the letter, so make it engaging and tailored to the position.

Teachers should end a cover letter by summarizing their interest in the position and expressing their eagerness to contribute to the school or institution. They should reiterate their key qualifications and how they align with the job requirements. A polite and professional closing statement such as "Thank you for considering my application" or "I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team" is appropriate. It's also important to include contact information for easy follow-up. Lastly, they should sign off with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by their full name. This ending reaffirms their interest, highlights their suitability, and shows appreciation for the reader's time, which leaves a positive impression.

A teacher's cover letter should ideally be about one page in length. This is generally the standard for most professions, including teaching. The goal is to succinctly present your qualifications, passion for teaching, and how you can contribute to the school or institution. A one-page cover letter allows you to provide a detailed yet concise overview of your relevant experiences and skills without overwhelming the reader. Remember, hiring managers often have many applications to go through, so it's important to make your points clearly and efficiently.

Writing a cover letter with no experience as a teacher can seem daunting, but it's important to remember that everyone starts somewhere. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to write a compelling cover letter: 1. Start with a Professional Greeting: Address the hiring manager by their name if it's available. If not, use a general but professional greeting like "Dear Hiring Manager." 2. Introduction: Begin by stating the position you're applying for. Mention where you saw the job posting and express your interest in the position. 3. Highlight Relevant Skills: Even if you don't have direct teaching experience, you likely have skills that are relevant to the job. Perhaps you've volunteered with children, tutored peers in college, or have experience in a related field like counseling. Highlight these experiences and explain how they've prepared you for a teaching role. 4. Showcase Your Education: If you're a recent graduate, emphasize your education. Discuss relevant coursework, student teaching experiences, and educational philosophies you've studied that you plan to incorporate into your teaching. 5. Show Enthusiasm for the School: Do some research about the school you're applying to and mention something specific that impresses you or aligns with your own teaching philosophy. This shows that you're not just looking for any job, but that you're interested in this specific position. 6. Conclude with a Call to Action: In your closing paragraph, express your eagerness to further discuss your qualifications in an interview. Thank the hiring manager for considering your application. 7. Professional Closing: End the letter with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best Regards," followed by your full name. Remember to keep your cover letter concise and to the point, ideally no longer than one page. Proofread carefully for any grammar or spelling errors. Your cover letter is your first chance to make a good impression, so make it count!

Related Cover Letters for Teachers

Teacher assistant cover letter.

Substitute Teacher Cover Letter

Preschool Teacher Cover Letter

Elementary Teacher Cover Letter

Teacher Cover Letter

Daycare Teacher Cover Letter

Related resumes for teachers, teacher resume example.

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15 A+ Teacher Cover Letter Examples

Have you ever been told you don't need a cover letter for a teaching position? Well, based on my conversations with many academic hiring authorities you NEED one.

One of the most important parts of the academic job search process is your teaching job application letter. Even a cover letter for a new teacher with no experience is critical.

The sample cover letters for teachers and administrators that we have created show you just what is needed to get the reader to pick up and read your resume.

Why would you risk not sending an application letter?

It is usually the first thing a school administrator or school district superintendent looks at when hiring a new teaching applicant. A cover letter, also known as an application letter or a letter of introduction, is how you introduce yourself as a teaching candidate. It allows you to convey your passion, relevant expertise, credentials, and teaching skills in a one-page letter.

Make sure when you write a cover letter you are not guilty of writing a long-winded one.

Don't make it too short; you need to communicate your value. It's a balancing act!

How you write your letter of introduction for a teaching job will determine if you can convince the reader to move on to your academic teaching resume and be offered a job interview. It's essential you develop a hard-hitting, attention-grabbing application or cover letter full of relevant keywords, teaching accomplishments, and action words that prove your worth.

Formatting your letter of application properly can be difficult if you are unfamiliar with technology and using word processing programs. It is best to match the resume formatting used to create your resume to keep consistent in your presentation. You will notice that all of our cover letter examples match in the formatting of the matching resume.

In addition to ensuring the letter matches the resume, we have incorporated and highlighted all the key aspects an interviewer is looking for in a teacher or administrator candidate.

Examples of Layout and Content for a Teacher Cover Letter

Education and credentials.

The first paragraph of your application letter for a teaching position should address the position of interest that you are applying for and also state that you are submitting your resume for consideration. A hiring school administrator may be looking to fill several positions; therefore, it is necessary to let the reader know right away which type of position is of interest.

Other topics that should be incorporated into the opening portion of your cover letter include:

• Educational credentials, i.e. Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, etc.
• Teaching certifications and licenses
• Years of classroom teaching experience or related expertise

Teaching and Administrative Experience

Think of your past positions not simply as jobs but learning experiences that helped you blossom into the person you are today. Provide a brief list of relevant jobs you have done and briefly discuss which skills you have developed as a result. Even though you may not be able to think of many technical skills, you have probably learned how to communicate, work with others, solve problems, etc. These are all relevant to your new position, regardless of what it is you are applying for.

No matter how long you have been teaching, you are bound to have several academic achievements to include in your academic job search documents.

Some questions you can ask yourself to help you come up with your teaching achievements, include:

• Have I increased student participation levels?
• Have I decreased student absenteeism?
• How were students performing by the end of the school year, as opposed to the start of the school year?
• How does my 4th-grade class stack up against the others in the school? What about in the district or state?
• Have I won any awards that would be worth mentioning?
• Have I pioneered any new teaching techniques or instructional programs that have proven to be successful?

When developing the teaching accomplishments for your cover letter, use as many facts and figures as possible to demonstrate your aptitude and skill sets concretely. It is also great if you can highlight accomplishments that are different than in your resume. When writing your cover letter, you do not want to rehash and copy your resume. So, either re-word your accomplishments or use different achievements to avoid being redundant.

Also, make sure that the achievements you choose to include in your cover letter are relevant and essential to the position. You can change up the accomplishments you highlight, depending on the teaching position of interest.

Instructional and Educational Leadership Expertise

When writing your cover letter, try to avoid starting each sentence with "I"; use action words and unique descriptors to grab the reader's attention. As well, highlight your accomplishments by explaining how your actions benefited the classroom and enhanced the learning experience.

For example:

Instead of: I designed fun lesson plans to interest students. Use: Designing creative and exciting lesson plans to spark student interest is just one of my strengths.

Instead of:  I used books and technology to differentiate instruction. Use:  In the classroom, I enjoy integrating age-appropriate literature and innovative technology to differentiate instruction and facilitate all types of learners.

Instead of: I maintained a well-behaved class at all times. Use: Cultivating a solid rapport with students and implementing positive reinforcement to keep a focused and well-behaved class at all times is one of my successes.

Instead of: I boosted student reading levels by one level. Use: By incorporating read alouds, hands-on activities, and literature-based thematic units, I was able to raise student reading levels by one level, while instilling a passion for reading.

Can you communicate in your cover letter that you are innovative or that your new ideas have worked well in your classroom? Some schools can be very choosy when picking a new school teacher, making it imperative to show you are innovative. There will be a minimum of qualifications and teaching experience needed, so the reader will be looking for extra attributes. Can you show them you have a unique selling point? Give examples of how your innovations have helped advance student learning or have enhanced your teaching methods in past positions.

Hard and Soft Skill Sets

Don't forget to use both hard and soft skills in your cover letter. Hard skills are anything you can learn in a course or on the job, such as educational technology, various teaching methods, lesson planning, classroom management, etc.

Soft skills are harder to evaluate or quantify and include your time management, organizational skills, problem solving, empathy, dedication, and listening skills, among many others.

Hard skills can often overshadow soft skills, but both are incredibly important. Your hard skills will have a greater opportunity to shine in your resume, however, your cover letter is your chance to showcase your soft skills as well.

Incorporate the words a school hiring administrator is looking for: passion or passionate, dedicated, committed, goal-driven, hard-working, diligent, and so forth. Whichever words you choose to incorporate in your teacher cover letter, make sure they are accurate. For example, use sentences in your application letter such as:

• As a collaborative and student-centered teacher with seven years of hands-on classroom expertise, I am confident in my ability to become a valuable and passionate member of your academic team.
• The enclosed resume will highlight my career accomplishments, showcase my passion for education, and demonstrate my commitment to helping all students succeed.
• Being an excellent and enthusiastic instructor, I welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss how my teaching expertise, talents, and passion will benefit your academic program.

Greatest Strengths

Analyze the job advertisement,if available, and see how the mentioned requirements correlate with the strengths you have demonstrated in other careers or positions. Perhaps you excel at collaborating with colleagues to assess a situation and devise an appropriate reaction or solution.

Maybe you are great at interacting with parents and working with them to meet students' unique needs. On the other hand, you may be proficient in differentiated instruction to ensure all learners are reached and successful.

Make sure you include these strengths in your letter to communicate what you can bring to the position. This is one of the most important strategies for writing a cover letter.

Passion, Enthusiasm, and Determination

Your academic cover letter for a new position is your chance to make your personality shine for potential schools. The worst thing you can communicate in your teaching application letter is that you are boring. Make the words come alive. School districts are looking for passionate, energetic go-getters, not unenthusiastic drones who hate coming to work. When developing your cover letter, you must write with enthusiasm, passion, and conviction .

Make the reader feel your true desire to work for the school district and excitement to take on a new teaching or educational leadership role. You may want to use lines such as "As a dedicated and energetic elementary school teacher, I am eager to become a valuable member of your school community" or "As a person who is truly dedicated to educating young children and serving your school district, I am excited to speak with you soon".

Highlighting your desire to go above and beyond the call of duty is another great technique for communicating your passion and dedication. A strong application letter for a teacher should show your belief that the job does not end when the school bell rings at the end of the day. Communicate you are committed to providing after-school support, seeking out additional resources, and attending extracurricular school events to establish a successful school community. Your passion for the profession should be evident in your actions and words.

…your cover letter should finish off with an "invitation" for the reader to contact the job applicant.

Additional Tips to Write a Cover Letter

• Your cover letter and resume should match each other in formatting and style

As mentioned earlier, your teaching job application letter should use the same format as your teacher resume. Maintain consistency between your documents, ensuring the hiring administrator can match them up quickly.

For example, if you use a border in your application letter, make sure you use the same border in your resume. All fonts and sizes should match. Your academic credentials should be worded in the same manner (i.e. Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education). By maintaining consistency, you will demonstrate attention to detail and organization.

• Utilize quotes and testimonials

By incorporating quotes from teachers, administrators, parents, and former students, you can create an excellent application letter for a teacher. These testimonials should convey your passion, diligence, and commitment to the students in your class, as well as the school as a whole. Do not be afraid to ask for a teacher letter of recommendation or supporting words from one of your administrators.

These professional quotes can also be integrated into your teacher resume to substantiate your dedication to education, and definitively portray the talents you possess that make you a versatile and driven teacher. The letters of recommendation themselves can be submitted in your teaching portfolio or during your job interview.

• Research the school or district

Show in your letter of introduction you have background information on the school or district to which you are applying. An education cover letter should be tailored to each district, if possible. If the school has a website, which most do, this can be a great starting point to find details about how they are unique.

Find out what you can and make a point of explaining why you are specifically interested in working for their school district. Hiring authorities are impressed when you mention some specifics directly related to their school community. Find out something interesting about their extra-curricular programs, team teaching opportunities, mentor teacher programs, computer technology program, or maybe that they have high test scores or a heavy parental involvement.

Submitting an application letter that contains spelling or grammatical errors will make the interviewer think you didn't care enough to proofread your letter before sending it. Even if you think you are good at writing and have few or no mistakes, always have your letter proofread. Someone else may see errors that you didn't notice. Don't use large or unusual words. Keep it plain, simple and to the point. The easier they can read your letter, the better chance you have against the competition.

After reviewing our teacher cover letter examples, you will see why we make the guarantee of 100% satisfaction.

If you find a sample academic cover letter that just calls out to you, let us know!

Your teacher resume and cover letter are what will sell you as a potential academic job candidate in your absence. You need those two documents to get the reader to pick up the phone and call you for an interview.

Make sure they make an incredible first impression to sell your value!

If you like, you can review A-Z Cover Letter Writing Tips for Teachers and Administrators.

Don't miss these tips to write a cover letter that is tailored to the school district's needs.

Since our inception 16 years ago, A+ Resumes for Teachers has helped thousands of academic professionals worldwide to secure education jobs and advance their careers quickly and with less stress.

Let us help you open doors you never thought possible to secure the future you desire. We can do it! Review our packages and pricing .

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Teacher Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Take your teacher cover letter to the next level with our easy-to-follow guide. Because even teachers need a little help sometimes. Real-life cover letter samples, specific examples, practical tips — you name it, we have it. So, let's make your cover letter shine!

In this guide, we show you the key steps for writing a cover letter as a teacher. Keep reading to learn how to:

• Properly format your teacher cover letter header & headline
• Personalize the greeting & content on teacher your cover letter
• Write an attention-grabbing teacher cover letter introduction
• Showcase your skills, accomplishments, & qualifications as a teacher
• End your teacher cover letter with a strong closing statement
• Access top resources for job-seeking teachers

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

1. Format your teacher cover letter header & headline correctly

To begin your teacher cover letter , the first essential step is to create a well-formatted header and a compelling headline.

A cover letter header contains key information about the applicant and employer, while a cover letter headline is an optional – yet highly useful – title that introduces the main point of the letter and helps to grab the employer’s attention.

Below are in-depth explanations and examples of each of these key elements:

Formatting the header

The header of your teacher cover letter should contain all the necessary information about yourself and the school you are applying to, including:

• Your name and professional title
• Your professional contact information
• The name of the school & department you are applying to
• The address of the school

Here is an example of a well-formatted header on a teacher cover letter

Joe King, Mathematics Teacher (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/joe-king

To: Buncombe County Middle School, Mathematics Department 1234 Street Address Asheville, NC 28801

Writing the headline

While you do not have to include a headline on your cover letter, a well-written headline can go a long way in initially grabbing the employer’s attention and compelling them to read further.

A strong cover letter headline will include a keyword related to the position, an eye-catching number or trigger word, a powerful adjective or verb, and a promise.

Here is an example of a well-written teacher headline, followed by a brief breakdown of its core components

My Proven Track Record of Improving Student Test Scores & How I Will Teach Your Students to Succeed

Trigger Word/Number : Proven Track Record Keyword: Student Test Scores, Teach Adjective/Verb: Proven, Teach, Succeed Promise: Your Students – the addition of this detail shows the employer that your cover letter is tailored to address the specific needs of their students.

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2. personalize the greeting & content on teacher your cover letter.

Anytime you write a cover letter as a teacher, it is important to personalize both the greeting and content found in the document.

A personalized greeting will address a specific person within the school by name – ideally, either the school principal or the head of the department you are applying to. This shows that you have excellent attention to detail and have taken the time to research the school beforehand.

Examples of personalized greetings on a teacher cover letter include

Dear Principal John Higgins,

• To Principal Higgins & the Mathematics Department,
• To Mrs. Jane Doe, Mathematics Department Head,

To personalize the rest of the content within your cover letter, you will need to complete further research into the school district, its demographics, and its core values. When writing your introduction and body paragraphs, use this information to explain how your skills and qualifications can meet the specific needs of the school’s students and faculty.

3. Write an attention-grabbing teacher cover letter introduction

Following the greeting of your teacher cover letter is the introductory paragraph . This introduction should be concise – between one to three sentences – and include:

• A brief overview of your professional history and goals
• A statement on why you are enthusiastic about applying to this school
• A mutual acquaintance (when possible) – naming a mutual acquaintance, such as a distinguished university professor or mentor, helps to establish an immediate professional reference and build your own professional credibility.

Here is an example of an effective introduction on a teacher’s cover letter

I am a Mathematics Teacher with 6 years of experience teaching basic and advanced math skills to middle and high school students. I am beyond impressed by your school’s dedication to student success and would love the opportunity to contribute my skills towards this goal. My mentor, Ms. Mary Smith, is a tenured teacher at your school and recommended I apply for this position.

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4. Showcase your skills, accomplishments, & qualifications as a teacher

You should always establish what subjects (Mathematics, English, etc.) you are experienced in teaching in the header and introduction of your cover letter. In the body paragraphs of your cover letter is where you will provide a more in-depth look into your skills, accomplishments, and qualifications.

An effective teacher cover letter will contain between 2 to 4 body paragraphs, using concise sentences and bullet points to help organize the information.

Key skills to describe within these body paragraphs include

• Classroom adaptability
• Lesson planning & curriculum development
• Empathy & patience
• Active listening
• Student performance assessments
• Classroom & conflict management

Here is an example of how to describe an accomplishment & qualification in a teacher cover letter

As a Mathematics Teacher with a Master’s in Math Education, I have a proven track record of raising student scores on general and end-of-year exams. At my previous position, I developed a flexible curriculum designed to meet individual student needs, resulting in a 45% increase in average exam scores.

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

It is crucial to finish off your teacher's cover letter strong with a thoughtful closing statement. This closing statement should include:

• 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 is an example of a strong closing statement from a teacher’s cover letter

I am eager to get to know your students and how they learn best. With my years of experience and compassionate approach, I am certain I can help your students to reach their full potential. I am available to interview any weekday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and will reach back out in one week if I have not heard back. The best way to reach me is at (123) 456-7890.

I look forward to discussing this opportunity with your further.

Appreciatively,

[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. Top resources for job-seeking teachers

Now that you're more than well equipped to write an outstanding cover letter, it's time to dive into the job search with confidence. Here are some top resources that can help you find the perfect teaching position:

• Industry-specific job boards: Websites like HigherEdJobs , TES , or SchoolSpring offer a wealth of job listings in the education sector, from local to international teaching positions.
• General job boards: You can also browse through online platforms with border focus, such as Indeed , Glassdoor , SimplyHired , or Jooble.  
• Professional associations: Associations for teachers offer access to great wealth of resources from job listings, to networking opportunities, publications, and training. You can, for example, join: the National Education Association (NEA), the Education International (EI), or the European Educational Research Association (EERA).
• LinkedIn : LinkedIn has become a valuable resource for educators. It's a place that allows them to network, share resources, and find job listings.
• Specialized publications: To succeed in this competitive field, you have to demonstrate your desire to learn and develop.Show the recruiters that you keep up with the latest industry news, trends, and methods. You can find all of these in “ The Journal of Teacher Education ,” “ International Journal of Educational Research ,” or “ Education Week .”
• Continuous education: If you feel that your resume could use some extra certificates, consider enrolling in, for instance: the National Board Certification (NBC) or the Special Education Certification . You can also check out courses offered by online platforms, such as Coursera , edX , or Khan Academy .

Once you've found a job posting that speaks to you, proceed to research the institution. You can then use this knowledge to craft a personalized cover letter that will convince the recruiters that you're exactly who they've been searching for.

Teacher Cover Letter FAQ

How should i showcase my skills in a teacher cover letter.

You can briefly touch on real scenarios in which you've effectively utilized your teaching skills. Mention what problem you faced, how you chose to resolve it, and what results you achieved.

What are common mistakes to avoid in a teacher cover letter?

Proofread your cover letter to get rid of any grammar mistakes, misspellings, and typos. Also, make sure that your cover letter is not too generic or verbose. This could give the impression that you're just trying to fill in empty space and don't really know what youre talking about.

Is it advisable to talk about teaching methodologies in my cover letter?

Yes, but keep it relevant and concise. You can, for example, show how your methods would be applicable and beneficial to their institution. And, if the institution you're applying to is known for employing certain specific teaching methods, demonstrating that you know about it can earn you bonus points.

What's the trick to formatting my cover letter appropriately?

You want to use a professional, simple, and sleek layout. Organize the text of your cover letter into neat paragraphs, divided by enough white space. You really don't want to make your cover letter look cluttered and disorganized.

How should I handle employment gaps in my cover letter?

You have two options: either you don't mention it at all; or you address this fact briefly. Try to focus on the positives and write about constructive activities you undertook during this time. For example: courses you attended, volunteering, or certifications.

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

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Home / Cover Letter Examples / English teacher Cover Letter Sample

Sample English Teacher Cover Letter and Advice from HR Pros

Now that you have your teacher resume ready , it’s time to work on your cover letter. A cover letter works as an introduction to your resume, highlights its most important points and shows the employer your passion and motivation for getting the job.

Why is a cover letter important when applying for a teaching position?

Hiring managers recommend always pairing your resume with a cover letter. However, for some positions, a cover letter is especially important.

If you are applying for a teaching position, how successful you are in your job is determined not only by your knowledge and professional credentials — but also by your personality and communication skills. Teachers work with people and many of them work with children. In this job people skills are just as valuable as the knowledge you can pass to your students.

Unfortunately, it’s very hard to let your personality come through in a resume page. Resumes tend to be dry, factual and focused on what you know. Cover letters, on the other hand, are a great place to talk about your motivation, communication skills, passion for the teaching profession and lots more. Don’t miss out on this powerful opportunity to show your employer who you are beyond the numbers on your resume.

English teacher cover letter sample

First, let’s take a quick look at a sample cover letter for a teaching position. We will then go over the structure of the letter step by step to give you an idea how to format your application.

What sections should your cover letter include?

A cover letter should be more personal than a resume. And you have way more flexibility on how to structure it. However, it’s still best if it includes the following essentials:

Introduction

• Call to action

Let’s go over each of these sections in a bit more detail.

Cover letter header

The header of your cover letter is the part with your contact information. You can keep it short and simple and just include your name, phone number and email. Or, you can use this as an opportunity to add a bit more information about yourself and pique the hiring manager’s curiosity.

If so, you can add a link to your professional social media: LinkedIn account, professional website or online portfolio. Before you do this, however, ensure that your professional social media profiles are updated and present a clear picture of you that can impress your potential new employer.

After your contact details, add a greeting. It’s best to address the hiring manager by name — if you know their name. This will add a personal touch to the application and may help you set off on a good note with the hiring manager.

Now, if you don’t know the name of the hiring manager, you can try to find it out.

Check the company’s web page and see if you can learn who is in charge of the hiring process.

Take a look at the company’s social media pages. Sometimes, there may be additional information there about who works at the company.

LinkedIn can be a good resource too. You can often see a list of the company’s employees here — search for the hiring manager, HR manager, talent acquisition, etc.

Finally, if all your attempts have failed, you may need to use a general greeting. In this case, we suggest going with something like “Dear Hiring Manager”. It may be best to avoid the phrases like “To Whom It May Concern”, as they may come off as old-fashioned and impersonal.

The introduction of your cover letter is basically an elevator pitch to the hiring team. This is no place to be shy. In fact, we suggest you jump in directly with your best features, major accomplishments and key talents. The introduction of your cover letter should get very close to convincing the hiring manager that you are the best person for the job. The rest of your cover letter as well as your resume will be backing up your introduction.

Cover letter main body

The middle paragraphs of your cover letter should go into more detail about why you are the best for the job. This is the time to make your case and be specific.

You can talk about what the company will gain from hiring you. Explain that you are well familiar with job responsibilities and what’s expected of you. Offer examples from your previous employment that prove your relevant abilities and skills. You can also include information about your most important projects, professional awards and accolades and more.

Don’t use abstract and general phrasing. Instead try to be as specific as you can. Include numbers, references to specific projects and skills and more.

This may also be a good place to talk about why you want the job, why you are passionate about this career path and why you have chosen to apply for a position with this specific company.

This part of your cover longer will be the longest — but try to keep to two to three paragraphs tops.

Call to action and sign-off

It’s best to end your cover letter with a call to action. This is what you hope the hiring manager will do after reading your application. Phrasing a call to action may be tricky, but there are several proven ways to approach this:

• You can mention when you are ready to start in the new job and ask if this timing works for your employer.
• You can ask about the next step in the application process: should you wait for a response, will there be an interview, is there any additional information you should provide, etc.
• Finally, don’t forget to thank the hiring manager for taking the time to review your application.

In your sign-off, you can repeat your contact details: your phone number and email.

Extra tips for writing a cover letter

Here are a few more things to take into account when writing your cover letter:

• Most hiring managers agree that your cover letter should be under a page long.
• Don’t make your cover letter into a copy of your resume. Use it as an opportunity to tell the hiring manager more about you and highlight your most important skills.
• Be specific. Use examples from your previous work, numbers, mention keywords from the job description — and more.
• Tailor the cover letter to the position you are applying for. While re-using the same cover letter for multiple positions may sound tempting and a great way to save time, it will probably be counter-productive. The main purpose of your cover letter is to show the employer that you are interested in the job they have to offer and that you are the best candidate for this specific job. This is why it’s essential that you do your best that both your resume and cover letter are tailored for the job you are applying for.

Learn How to Write a Modern Resume in 2022

How to Become a Teacher (The Elementary and Secondary School Teaching Career Ladder)

How to Become an Elementary School Teacher?

How to become a secondary school teacher, how to become an esl teacher, obtain a master’s degree in education, how to climb the teaching career ladder, obtain additional certifications, attend industry conferences and networking groups, volunteer in your community, highlight your commitment to diversity and inclusion, create an accomplishment-driven resume, tailor your cover letter to the organization.

In the U.S., the need for qualified teachers has continued to rise, as many states are experiencing significant shortages at both the elementary and high school levels. Although teaching salaries vary greatly depending on your grade level and geographic location, the education industry has many avenues to support upward mobility and growth for teachers. Throughout this guide, we’ll provide valuable insights to help you climb the teaching career ladder and achieve your long-term goals.

To become an elementary school teacher, you’ll need to complete a four-year degree in elementary education and finish your student teaching requirements to obtain teaching credentials within your state. The average annual salary for elementary school teachers was $61,350 in 2021, with a projected growth rate of seven percent over the next ten years. In addition, as an elementary school teacher, you may be eligible to receive compensation for college tuition after completing a certain number of years in your district.

Secondary school teachers provide education to students in grades seven through twelve. To become certified as a secondary school teacher in your state, you’ll need to complete a four-year degree in your topic and obtain a single subject teaching credential. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for secondary education teachers was $61,820 in 2021. These positions also offer a variety of paths for upward growth in administrative and leadership roles.

Whether you’re planning to work with elementary or high school students, you’ll need to complete a four-year degree in ESL education and finish your student teaching before you can obtain your credential. Pursuing additional training and certifications in the language you specialize in is worthwhile, as this can help differentiate you from the competition during your job search.

In many states, you’re expected to pursue a master’s degree in education as a requirement over your first five years of teaching. This is the case for both elementary school teachers and secondary education teachers. The good news is that many school districts will offer to pay a significant portion of your tuition. Although this is often a mandatory requirement, obtaining a master’s degree will also benefit your long-term career prospects and help you secure higher-paying positions as you climb the teaching career ladder.

Climbing the teaching career ladder takes time, diligence, and years of experience within the industry. That said, you can take steps to fuel your future career growth. Organizations take notice of teachers who go above and beyond what is expected of them. If your resume shows that you’ve been diligent in growing your teaching skills and providing support for your community, it can help you stand out from the field of applicants as you pursue higher-level teaching positions. Below, you’ll find some expert tips to help you climb the teaching career ladder:

Another way you can secure higher-paying opportunities and promotions within your district is by obtaining a National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certification. Although this isn’t required to pursue a teaching career, having additional certifications will demonstrate that you’ve been proactive in continuing to grow as an educator, which will make a positive impression on prospective employers.

To maximize your long-term career prospects, you’ll want to create a network of professional contacts within the education space. Attending industry conferences can benefit you in multiple ways. In addition to networking with other teachers and educators, you can also list these conferences on your resume, which will show hiring managers that you’ve taken steps to keep yourself up to date on emerging trends, educational strategies, and teaching methodologies. Another way you can build out your network is to interface with education professionals on LinkedIn, which will also enhance your online presence during the job search.

Becoming involved in your community outreach can go a long way in improving your long-term career prospects. Volunteering for outreach initiatives, charity fundraisers, and summer programs will demonstrate your commitment to service and help you build relationships within your community. One of the best ways to climb the teaching ladder is to grow your presence and reputation within your district. When people know who you are and what you bring to the table, you’ll be much more likely to secure your ideal teaching position in the future.

Creating safe and inclusive classroom environments is incredibly important within the education field, so you’ll want to highlight your contributions to building school communities that value diversity and cultural awareness. One way you could do this is by becoming involved on a school committee focusing on ensuring classroom equity. You could also volunteer for community and school events to help raise awareness. Demonstrating your commitment and experience in driving inclusion within your district will also speak volumes about who you are as both a person and an educator when pursuing leadership roles later in your career.

As you continue to gain experience within the teaching field, you’ll want to create a strong accomplishment-driven resume to secure interviews for higher-level roles. The key to crafting a compelling teacher resume is to focus on the positive impact you’ve had on your students and organization. Whether referencing an increase in average test scores or showcasing your ability to grow student engagement with the subject material, you want to avoid creating a document filled with mundane job responsibilities.

Building a strong cover letter can help complement your resume as you look for your next job opportunity. Many job seekers make the common mistake of creating a generic cover letter they send with any application. If you want to make a positive impression on the hiring manager, you want to take the time to talk about the school you’re applying to and how your background aligns with their core values and needs.

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Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

Build a Resume to Enhance Your Career

• How to Build a Resume Learn More
• Basic Resume Examples and Templates Learn More
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Grad Stu Instr - Psych 306 (25%), Fall 2024

How to apply.

Applicants must include with this application the following materials combined as a single PDF: 1)  a cover letter addressing why you are interested in the position and your qualifications for the position 2)  a resume or curriculum vita 3)  teaching history (list course and department) 4)  any available teaching evaluations 5) one letter of recommendation (note - if desired, recommender may send this separately to [email protected] by the application deadline)  

Course Description

Psych 306 Project Outreach (0.25 FTE) Professor Allison Earl, [email protected]

Project Outreach is an experiential learning course that offers an opportunity for UM undergraduate students to provide meaningful service to others while learning about psychology in action. The purpose of Project Outreach is to allow students to learn about themselves and psychology by becoming involved in community settings. Outreach students engage in real work in the community, designed to meet community needs. Project Outreach is composed of Psych 211 and Psych 306

With three unique sections - Development, Facilitating Mental Wellness, and Biopsychosocial Health - Project Outreach allows students to identify a particular topic of interest, learn about psychology as it relates to their section topic, and volunteer in relevant environments.

Responsibilities*

Project Outreach is an experiential learning course combining academic study with volunteer service in the local community. This 0.25 GSI position assists with coordinating the fieldwork portion of the course for all sections by working with community partner agencies, arranging individual student placements, coordinating transportation for students to site visits, monitoring student progress on sites, and serving as the site liaison between the community partners and students throughout the term.

With the faculty director, the site coordinator GSI works in advance of the term to set up placements at each partnering agency for volunteering shifts. They also begin working with students as soon as enrollment occurs to prepare them for requirements at site placements and transportation planning. Workload:  GSI effort in Psych 306/Psych 211 is heavily front loaded, requiring advance planning to set up and match students to placement sites, requirements, and transportation in advance of the start of the term. Effort in planning and establishing individual student placements falls mainly in the first month of the term. Once students are launched on sites, the workload during the term is lighter, centering on monitoring and supervising student success in their placements. Management activities are conducted collaboratively with the instructor and coordinated with the section GSIs, including attending initial section meetings on Tuesday ( D evelopment), Wednesday (me n tal wellness), or Thursday (health) from 5 to 6 pm. for the first month of the term. The GSI must be available for instructional team meetings (likely Mondays 3:30 - 5 pm) throughout the term to coordinate with the teaching team. The GSI maintains records from sites and provides posted information to students on Canvas, responds to student and site emails within 24 hrs on weekdays, and consults with the instructor and teaching team as needed/desired.

REQUIRED TRAININGS - There are trainings required each term for Psychology GSIs, new and returning, as listed below.  It is your responsibility to plan your travel and other responsibilities around these training sessions.

All students hired as Psychology GSIs are required to take U of M's Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Online Training Module, RO 100: FERPA, through My Linc.  This only needs to be taken once.

ALL FIRST-TIME GSIs are required to attend each of the following trainings: 1. Psychology Department New GSI Orientation:  Wednesday, August 21, 2024- 9am-2pm in EHB247.  2. DPSS Training - TBA 3. Center for Research on Learning and Teaching GSI Orientation (CRLT GSITO): Canvas course with required asynchronous and synchronous components.  Opens August 2024 (exact dates TBA). NOTE: If you previously GSI'd in another department at U of M and already attended the CRLT GSITO, you do not have to attend again).

ALL RETURNING GSIs, who have taught for the Psych Dept. in a PRIOR Term: 1. DPSS Training - TBA 2.  It is recommended returning Psych GSIs attend a CRLT Seminar during the Fall 2024 term. Seminars will be listed on the CRLT website closer to the start of the term - http://www.crlt.umich.edu/events .   

Required Qualifications*

Applicant must be a graduate student in good standing at the University of Michigan. Applicant must not have exceeded the College's Ten Term Rule. 

Graduate students hired as GSIs (0.5 or higher appointment) for a Psychology course should not hold another 0.5 appointment (GSI/GSRA/Staff) during the same term.

Students who did not attend an English-speaking undergraduate institution must be evaluated by the English Language Institute (ELI) for English proficiency and either pass the GSI-OET, or have this test waived by the ELI before they can be eligible for a GSI Appointment in LSA.  

Desired Qualifications*

Strong project management, communication, and organization skills are required. This GSI must be available and responsive to emergent situations throughout the school week for placement sites, students, and the teaching team. Experience managing field placements, such as preschools, healthcare settings, or psychoeducational programs, is required. The GSI must also be familiar with logistical planning, community-based experiential learning, and with the local Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti area.

Previous GSI experience with favorable student evaluations. LSA student enrolled in a graduate program. 

Contact Information

Megan Wolgast ( [email protected] ), Graduate Program Coordinator.  

Decision Making Process

Faculty review applications and note their preferences and indicate any applicants deemed unqualified. Psychology will make reasonable efforts to extend an offer to the successful applicant by 8/21/24.

Selection Process

Faculty recommendations, relevance to graduate training and academic preparation for teaching the course are considered. Psychology Ph. D graduate students will have priority in placement.

GEO Contract Information

The University will not discriminate against any applicant for employment because of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, marital status, familial status, parental status or pregnancy status, sex, gender identity or expression (whether actual or perceived), sexual orientation, age, height, weight, disability, citizenship status, veteran status, HIV antibody status, political belief, membership in any social or political organization, participation in a grievance or complaint whether formal or informal, medical conditions including those related to pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding, arrest record, or any other factor where the item in question will not interfere with job performance and where the employee is otherwise qualified. The University of Michigan agrees to abide by the protections afforded employees with disabilities as outlined in the rules and regulations which implement Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Information for the Office for Institutional Equity may be found at https://oie.umich.edu/ and for the University Ombuds at https://ombuds.umich.edu/

Unsuccessful applications will be retained for consideration in the event that there are last minute openings for available positions. In the event that an employee does not receive their preferred assignment, they can request a written explanation or an in-person interview with the hiring agents(s) to be scheduled at a mutually agreed upon time.

This position, as posted, is subject to a collective bargaining agreement between the Regents of the University of Michigan and the Graduate Employees' Organization, American Federation of Teachers, AFL-CIO 3550.

Standard Practice Guide 601.38, Required Disclosure of Felony Charges and/or Felony Convictions applies to all Graduate Student Assistants (GSAs). SPG 601.38 may be accessed online at https://spg.umich.edu/policy/601.38 , and its relation to your employment can be found in MOU 10 of your employment contract.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.