Writing a perfect cover letter for teaching can be intimidating, especially if you’re starting from scratch. A great way to get started is to look at examples of successful cover letters for teaching positions.
To make it easier, we’ve created this comprehensive guide with tips on how to write a teacher cover letter and included solid examples to help you along the way.
Start With a Professional Greeting.
The first step in writing a successful teacher cover letter is to make sure you address the right person. Do some research on the school or district’s website and look up the hiring manager of the school or district. Greet them with their full name and position (e.g., “Dear Ms. Smith, Principal of ABC School District”).
Introduce Yourself and Why You are Interested in the Position.
The most important part of your teacher cover letter is introducing yourself and why you’re interested in the position. This should include a brief summary of who are, your qualifications, and why you’re a great fit for the role.
For example, an introduction might look like this:
“My name is Jane Smith, and I am a highly experienced elementary school teacher with a track record of helping students reach their full potential. I am very excited about the possibility of joining your team and would love to talk further about how I can contribute to your school’s success.”
Highlight Your Qualifications.
In your opening paragraph, try to highlight your qualifications. This is where you should detail the skills and experiences that make you a candidate for the role.
For example, you could mention your degree in education and any certifications or specializations, such as bilingualism or STEM experience. You should also include brief examples of any awards or accomplishments you’ve achieved during your teaching career.
Explain What You Can Bring to The Role.
The next section should explain what you can bring to the role. This is where you can discuss your approach to teaching and learning, along with any unique skills or perspectives you have.
For example, if you specialize in teaching English as a second language, you could discuss how you can help international students in the classroom. You can also explain any extracurricular activities or initiatives you’ve started that have had a positive impact on student learning.
Give Examples of Accomplishments or Your Soft Skills to the Role.
Use this section to highlight your soft skills and accomplishments. This is where you can talk about how you’ve increased student engagement in the classroom or provided individualized instruction for students with learning differences.
You can also discuss any specific awards or accomplishments such as implementing a successful anti-bullying initiative or developing an innovative lesson plan that had a positive impact on student performance.
Provide Details About What Makes You Stand Out from Other Candidates.
You should make sure to include a few sentences about what makes you stand out from other candidates. This could include any unique skills or experiences that you have, or even just your commitment to making a difference in the classroom.
For example, you could mention any innovative teaching methods that you’ve implemented or extracurricular activities that you’re involved in.
Close Your Teacher Cover Letter and Add Contact Information.
Close your teacher cover letter by thanking the reader for their time and inviting them to contact you. You should also include your contact information, such as your phone number and email address.
For example, your closing paragraph might look like this:
“Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. I am confident that I can bring a lot of value to your team, and I look forward to discussing the details further. Please don’t hesitate to contact me at 555-555-5555 or via email at janesmith@example.com.”
Make Sure to Proofread.
It’s critical to proofread your teacher cover letter before submitting it. Make sure there are no spelling or grammar mistakes, and that everything is formatted correctly.
You should also double-check the name of the school and any other details you’ve included in the letter. If possible, have another person review the letter for any errors or typos. Once you’re confident that the cover letter is perfect.
Call to Action Asking for an Interview Directly.
In your final paragraph, you should end your teacher cover letter by asking for an interview. This is a great way to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job and shows that you’re serious about pursuing the position.
For example, you might conclude with something like this:
“I am eager to discuss my qualifications in person, so I would be grateful for the opportunity to meet with you to further discuss this role. Please let me know if there is a time that works best for you.”
Take the time to customize your letter so it reflects your personality, experiences, and knowledge. This will show the hiring manager that you’re genuinely interested in the position and committed to making a good impression.
If this is your First Teaching Job.
If you’re applying for your first teaching job, use the body of your cover letter to explain why you’re passionate about the field and what experiences have prepared you for this role.
Talk about your educational background, highlight any relevant volunteer or professional experience, and draw attention to any awards or commendations that demonstrate your commitment to education.
If You’re Experienced in Education.
If you have several years of experience in a classroom, provide concrete examples of how you made an impact on students’ lives and taught them valuable lessons beyond academics.
Focus on how your past experiences can make a positive contribution to the school. Outline specific strategies and methods that have been successful for your students in the past, and emphasize the ways in which you have gone above and beyond to motivate them.
No matter where you are in your teaching journey, a teacher cover letter is an important part of the job application process.
Use this guide and accompanying examples to help craft a strong statement that will get you noticed by hiring managers.
Teacher Cover Letter FAQs
What is a Teacher Cover Letter?
A teacher cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application. It should complement and enhance your resume, highlighting relevant skills and experiences—and showing how they make you an excellent candidate for the teaching position you want.
What should a teacher cover letter include?
Your teacher cover letter should include your contact information, a salutation, an introduction that explains why you’re applying for the job, a section about your qualifications and experiences, a closing paragraph that thanks the reader and invites them to contact you, and your signature.
How do you express interest in teaching position?
Expressing interest in a teaching position is simple—just mention why you’re passionate about education and what experiences have prepared you for the role. Highlight awards or commendations that demonstrate your commitment to education, as well as any strategies or methods that have been successful for your students in the past. Most importantly, make sure to show enthusiasm and gratitude throughout your cover letter.
What is an good teacher cover letter example for applicants with no experience?
“I am writing to express my interest in the open teaching position at ABC School. With a Bachelor’s degree in Education and years of volunteer experience working with children, I have a solid understanding of the fundamentals of teaching.
As an eager learner and passionate educator, I am confident that I would be an asset to your team. I have strong communication skills and am comfortable speaking to both adults and children. My patience, creativity, and enthusiasm make me a good candidate for the job. I am committed to helping each student reach their full potential.”
What is a good teacher cover letter example as a teacher with experience?
“I am writing to express my interest in the open teaching position at ABC School. With over five years of experience in teaching and working with children, I have a deep understanding of how to motivate and engage students of all ages.
In my past roles I designed innovative lesson plans, implemented new technology into the classroom, and organized field trips that encouraged student learning and collaboration.I also created strong relationships with parents, helping them stay up-to-date on their child’s progress.
I am confident that my enthusiasm for education combined with my extensive experience makes me an ideal candidate for this role. Thank you for your time—I look forward to hearing from you soon!”
What should I avoid in my teacher cover letter?
Avoid clichés in your teacher cover letter—employers want to see that you can think critically and come up with original ideas.
What should I wear to an interview for a teaching job?
When attending an interview for a teaching job, it’s important to dress professionally and appropriately. Women should wear a conservative professional outfit such as a dress or skirt-suit, while men should opt for a suit or sport coat with slacks. Make sure your clothing is clean and pressed, add a few subtle accessories, and complete the look with polished shoes.
What else can I include in my teacher cover letter?
In addition to the components described above, you may also include a brief summary that ties together your qualifications and experiences. This is an optional section and should only be included if it enhances your cover letter. Also, be sure to proofread and edit your cover letter for any grammar or spelling mistakes before submitting it.
Teacher Cover Letter Example
Dear Mr. Smith,
I am writing to apply for the position of Fourth Grade Teacher at ABC Elementary School. With a Bachelor’s degree in Education and five years of teaching experience, I believe I am an excellent fit for this role.
In my current position as a Third Grade Teacher at XYZ Elementary School, I have implemented innovative teaching strategies that have improved student performance in math and reading by 20%. My interactive lessons engage students’ sense of curiosity and encourage them to discover knowledge on their own.
In addition, I have been commended several times by parents and administrators for creating an inclusive learning environment where all students feel welcome and respected.
I am confident that my core skills and experiences make me an ideal candidate for the position at ABC Elementary. I would be thrilled to bring my enthusiasm and commitment to education to the school community and look forward to discussing this opportunity with you further.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Your Signature (hard copy letter)
Your Name
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