Wanting to know ways to engage a school district through your cover letter submission? School districts are oftentimes seeking candidates who are able to clearly articulate their interest in the field, their interest in the district, as well as their applicable skills and experiences. Whether applying for a student teaching experience or a full-time permanent teaching role, candidates should include the following in a strong cover letter:
- Customized information on the school district’s mission, values, and goals–Conducting research on these important elements and incorporating such information in your cover letter while discussing ways in which you may support such elements shows the district that you are knowledgeable about them specifically, as well as the ways that you may fit in with the particular district.
- Discussion of specific skills and experiences—Highlight the ways in which your qualifications make you uniquely prepared to serve as a teacher. Include any background with technology in the classroom (including specific technological platforms), experience working with diverse populations, and direct teaching experience, while naming specific roles and positions where you clearly demonstrated such skills and experiences.
- Inclusion of information about chosen field and your teaching philosophy— Include a sentence or two about why you want to be a teacher and your teaching philosophy/approach to working with your chosen population. School districts oftentimes want to see evidence of a true desire to serve as a professional educator. Including evidence as to how you formulated your teaching philosophy will also provide a clear link for districts between your experience and approach.
Discussing these items in your teaching cover letter will help you to stand out among other candidates while also displaying why you chose their specific district. For more tips on writing a strong teaching cover letter, you can attend an upcoming drop-in session with a career advisor to get your cover letter questions answered.
