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25 Teacher Cover Letters Examples To Help You Get Hired

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

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

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

Keep it short and sweet..

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

Emphasize why you’re a great match.

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

Individualize!

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

Top teacher cover letter examples:

1. first-time teacher.

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

Learn more: First-time teacher at LiveAbout

2. Another first-time teacher example

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

Learn more: Another first-time teacher example at OLAS

3. Experienced elementary teacher

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

Learn more: Experienced elementary teacher at Monster ADVERTISEMENT

4. Another experienced elementary teacher example

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

Learn more: Another experienced elementary teacher at LiveAbout

5. Summer school teacher

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

Learn more: Summer school teacher at Cover Letters and Resume

6. Assistant teacher

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

Learn more: Assistant teacher at LiveCareer

7. Special education teacher

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

Learn more: Special education teacher at JobHero

8. School guidance counselor

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

Learn more: School guidance counselor at Great Sample Resume

9. Another school guidance counselor example

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

Learn more: School guidance counselor at Zety

10. Library media specialist

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

Learn more: Library media specialist at LiveCareer

11. High school English teacher

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

Learn more: High school English teacher at Great Sample Resume

12. Technology teacher

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

Learn more: Technology teacher at LiveCareer

13. Music teacher

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

Learn more: Music teacher at Best Sample Resume

14. Drama teacher

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

Learn more: Drama teacher at Great Sample Resume

15. Foreign language teacher

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

Learn more: Foreign language teacher at JobHero

16. Sports coach

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

Learn more: Sports coach at JobHero

17. ESL teacher

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

Learn more: ESL teacher at LiveCareer

18. Math teacher

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

Learn more: Math teacher at A+ Resumes for Teachers

19. Pre-K teacher

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

Learn more: Pre-K teacher at LiveCareer

20. Business teacher

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

Learn more: Business teacher at LiveCareer

21. International school teacher

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

Learn more: International school teacher at LiveCareer

22. Head teacher cover letter

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

Learn more: Head teacher cover letter example at QwikResume

23. Kindergarten teacher

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

Learn more: Kindergarten teacher at Kickresume

24. Secondary teacher

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

Learn more: Secondary teacher at Resumaker

25. Art teacher

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

Learn more: Art teacher at Resume Genius

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

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

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

Make a great first impression! Continue Reading

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Education Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

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

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

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

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

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

Create your cover letter fast with artificial intelligence.

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

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

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

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

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

Formatting the header

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

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

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

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

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

Writing the headline

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

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

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

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

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

2. Personalize the greeting on your education cover letter

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

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

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

To the [Company Name] Team

To the [Company Name] Hiring Manager

Find out your resume score!

3. Create an eye-catching education cover letter introduction

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

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

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

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

To [Employer’s Name],

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

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

4. Effectively describe your accomplishments as an education professional

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yours Truly,

[Applicant Name]

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

6. Valuable job search resources for education professionals

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

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

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

Education Cover Letter FAQ

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

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

Can I mention my teaching philosophy in the cover letter?

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

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

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

How do I highlight extracurricular involvement in my cover letter?

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

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

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

Nikoleta Kuhejda

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

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• School Counselor
• Special Education Teacher
• Teacher Assistant
• Youth Advisor

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Education cover letter example

Cover letter middle part (body)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best format for an education cover letter

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

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

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

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

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

Dear Mr. Jacobs, 

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

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

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

Most Sincerely,

Sebastian Wilder

Cover letter header

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

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

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

Make the grade with the Applicant Tracking System 

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

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

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

Cover letter greeting

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

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

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

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

Cover letter introduction

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

Here is a broad outline you can use:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to avoid basic mistakes in an education application letter 

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

Key takeaways for an education cover letter

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

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

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

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Education Cover Letter Examples

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

Cover Letter Samples by Job-Title

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

Why a Education professional needs a cover letter

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

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

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

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

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

Writing the Perfect Education Cover Letter

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

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

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

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

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

What should be included in a Education cover letter

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

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

How to format a Education cover letter

Introduction.

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

Explain Your Professional Experience

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

Highlight Your Qualifications

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

Make a Good Impression

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

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

Common mistakes to avoid when creating a Education cover letter

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

Benefits of submitting a Education cover letter

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

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

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

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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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5 Teacher Cover Letter Examples & Templates for 2024

• Teacher Cover Letter
• Elementary Teacher
• Art Teacher
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• 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

Need a resume to pair with your AP English teacher cover letter?

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.

Teacher Cover Letter Example and Writing Tips

Theresa Chiechi / The Balance

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How to Write a Cover Letter for a Teaching Position

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Balance

Cover Letter Example for a Teacher (Text Version)

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

May 17, 2022

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

Dear Mr. Doe,

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

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

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

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

Signature (hard copy letter)

Alissa McIntire

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

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

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

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

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

Also review resume examples and resume writing advice for teachers.

Key Takeaways

• A well-written cover letter will highlight your relevant experience and past achievements, and connect them to the job for which you're applying.
• It's important to tailor each cover letter you write to fit the specific school and job listing.
• If you don't have teaching experience, mention volunteering or non-work activities that are related to working with children.
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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!

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• News & Resources

Job Search Tips

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

Cover Letter Advice

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

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

Sample Cover Letters

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Resume/CV Advice

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

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

• The Next Step Resume
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• A Resume for Employers or a Record for You?
• Toning It Down: How and When Should You Consider Understating Your Credentials?
• Academe's Resume 2.0 in the Era of Web 2.0
• Social Media in Higher Education Careers

Sample Resumes

• Traditional Style
• Professional Style
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Sample CVs:

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

Interviewing and Job Search Strategies

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

Learn More About Job Search Strategies

• Career Fitness: The Social Job Application
• How to Find a Job: Five Foundations for Success
• Limber up for that Search
• Academic Job Search: A Playbook for the Internal Candidate
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Psychotherapy, personality, cover letter for an educational leadership position(5 samples).

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Samples of cover letters for education leadership positions

To get an education leadership position, you need a well-written cover letter that showcases your passion for and dedication to the industry. When writing an education program leadership position cover letter, these are some of the essential things to include in your letter:

Upon learning of your posting for the position of education director, I felt compelled to submit my resume for your review. As an accomplished, visionary business and education leader with comprehensive operational, planning, and program development experience, I am well prepared to significantly contribute to your company’s goals and objectives.

My expertise lies in overseeing strategic planning, budget administration, and program development and management to create improvements in academic performance for special education students. With a master of education as well as a master of business administration, I possess a unique blend of experience in both the business and education fields. From developing curricula and creating educational materials to preparing annual business plans and budgets and directing staff training initiatives, I excel at spearheading strategic enhancements to drive goal achievement while communicating openly and routinely with staff, management, and ancillary professional teams.

Overseeing policy and procedure development and implementation, program management, training and leadership, and overall operational leadership tasks to facilitate optimal performance for the special education program across the Wenatchee School District for the past 14 years

Serving as a passionate advocate for education and demonstrating a fervent commitment to enhancing the learning experience through classroom technology and program implementation

I have summarized my skills and abilities in order to highlight my background for your perusal:

I am applying for the position of Education Manager with MedStar VNA, Inc. and my experience and training match the requirements of this job.

Catalina Brand

Resume Attached as MS Word Document”

“I am excited to be applying for the Education Manager position at the ABC School District. I have more than 10 years of experience in education, including five years as a classroom teacher and three years as a school administrator. I am confident that my skills and experience will make me an excellent fit for this role and I am eager to join the ABC School District team.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.”

“Josue Ortega

City, State, Zip Code

[email protected]

Dear Ms. Arnold,

My academic preparation along with excellent organizational skills aid in my ability to be a successful administrator. I possess strong leadership skills that help me to interact well with school faculty parents and other key educational stakeholders. My professional experience over the years has taught me the benefits of good communication. I have been praised for my efforts to keep all team members informed of important duties required of them. I would love to bring this collaborative spirit to Stern County School District. I am confident that my educational background leadership skills and personal traits make me an outstanding candidate for your Education Administrator position.

Josue Ortega”

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the role of an executive director.

An executive director provides strategic direction, manages resources, and ensures that the organization meets its goals.

What skills should an executive director possess?

Skills for an executive director

https://www.jobhero.com/cover-letter/examples/education/education-director

https://www.greatsampleresume.com/cover-letter/examples/education/administrator

https://www.livecareer.com/cover-letter/examples/education/administrator

https://www.greatsampleresume.com/cover-letter/examples/education/manager

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How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internal Position (With Examples and a Template!)

Applying for an internal position isn’t just a matter of submitting a resume and hoping for the best. It’s about strategically positioning yourself as the perfect candidate for a role within a company that already knows you.

The prospect of new challenges, career growth, and the chance to contribute in different ways can be highly motivating. But with that comes the need to navigate office politics , manage relationships, and ensure that your application stands out.

We’ll explore what makes a cover letter for an internal position different from a traditional cover letter , why it’s crucial to write a good one, and how to do it effectively. We’ll also include examples and a template to help you get started.

Think you need to look outside your current company? One of these open jobs on The Muse might just be the one »

Is a cover letter for an internal position different from a traditional cover letter?

Yes! When you're applying for a job within the same company, you're not starting from scratch. The hiring manager already knows you and has very easy access to a reference check, so your cover letter must reflect proximity. Balancing familiarity with professionalism is key.

Unlike a traditional cover letter, where you introduce yourself and explain your interest in the company, a cover letter for an internal position should focus on your achievements , your understanding of the company culture, and your vision for how you can contribute to this new role.

“The process might be less formal but is often more competitive because you’re up against colleagues,” says Kenan Acieklly, CEO of Workhy , who has nearly a decade of experience in HR and business management. “Decisions may weigh heavily on your internal reputation, past performance, and ability to articulate your future potential within the company.”

Why should I write a cover letter for an internal position?

Writing a cover letter for an internal position is crucial for several reasons. You might think that since you're already an employee, a cover letter is just a formality. However, skipping it or writing a generic one could really hurt your chances.

This cover letter should highlight why you’re the best candidate for this different role, even if your managers and colleagues already know your work ethic and contributions. You’re making the case that you're not just a good employee, but the right person for this specific job.

Writing a cover letter underscores your seriousness about the role. “It’s an opportunity to articulate your vision and demonstrate continued commitment to the company’s success,” Acikelli says. And it serves many important functions:

• It reaffirms your interest in the company: Even though you already work there, this shows that you're still committed to the company's mission and values.
• It highlights your achievements: This is your chance to remind the hiring manager of your successes within the company—things they might not remember or know about if they weren’t directly supervising you.
• It shows your initiative: Applying internally demonstrates that you’re eager to grow and take on new challenges. A well-crafted cover letter underlines your proactive approach to your career.
• It provides a tailored narrative: This letter allows you to connect your current role with the new one, explaining how your skills, experience, and knowledge of the company make you the ideal candidate.

How to apply for an internal role

Let's go over some of the most common questions about applying for an internal position:

Is it OK to apply for an internal position?

Yes, it is absolutely OK to apply for an internal position. Companies generally encourage internal mobility as it allows them to retain talent and leverage existing employees’ skills and institutional knowledge. Applying for an internal position shows that you are committed to the company and interested in furthering your career within the organization.

How to express interest in an internal position?

It's important to be both professional and enthusiastic. Start by scheduling a meeting with your current supervisor to discuss your career goals and explain why you're interested in the new role. During the conversation, emphasize your desire to continue growing within the company and explain how the new position aligns with your career aspirations. Make sure to follow any formal application procedures, such as submitting an updated resume and a strong cover letter.

How do you tell your boss you are applying for an internal position?

Schedule a private meeting with your boss to discuss your plans. Be upfront about your intentions, explaining why you’re interested in the new role and how it aligns with your long-term career goals . Emphasize that this move isn’t a reflection of dissatisfaction with your current position, but rather a desire to grow and take on new challenges within the company. It’s important to assure your boss that you remain committed to your current responsibilities and that you will help ensure a smooth transition if you’re selected for the new role.

Do I need a CV for an internal job?

Yes, you typically need a curriculum vitae (CV) or resume when applying for an internal job. While the hiring managers might already know you, a CV provides a formal document that highlights your relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments. It also helps you present your qualifications in a structured way that aligns with the job requirements. Make sure to tailor your CV to the specific role you’re applying for, emphasizing the experience and achievements that are most relevant to the new position.

How do you message a hiring manager for an internal position?

Keep the tone professional and concise. Start by introducing yourself and expressing your interest in the position. Mention that you are currently working in the company and explain why you believe you are a good fit for the role. Offer to provide more information or discuss your qualifications in detail at their convenience. Close the message by thanking them for considering your application and expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

“Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position that was recently posted. I have been with [Company Name] for [X years] as [Your Current Position], and I believe that my experience and skills align well with the requirements of this role. I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the team in this new capacity. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of working together.

Best regards, [Your Name]”

How to write a cover letter for an internal position (examples included!)

Now that you already know the basics of how to apply for a role within your current company, let's focus on how to write an impressive cover letter for an internal position.

Think of it as a way to remind decision-makers why you're the right person for the job—because of your qualifications, your understanding of the company’s goals, and how you can contribute to its success in a new capacity. Your cover letter for an internal position should convey your enthusiasm for the position, reflect on what you've achieved so far, and outline how you plan to make an even bigger impact if given the opportunity.

Follow this structure to make an impressive cover letter for an internal position:

1. Start with a strong opening

Begin by expressing your excitement about the new role and your commitment to the company. Mention how long you’ve been with the company and briefly describe your current position.

“I am thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] position. Having been with [Company Name] for [X years], I have developed a deep understanding of our operations and have consistently strived to contribute to our success in meaningful ways.”

2. Highlight your accomplishments

This is where you shine a light on what you've achieved in your current role. “Start with your accomplishments in your current role, then connect those successes to the value you’ll bring to the new position,” Acikelli says.

“In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I successfully led [Project Name], which resulted in [specific achievement, e.g., a 20% increase in sales]. This experience has given me invaluable insights that I am eager to apply in the [New Job Title] role.”

3. Showcase your knowledge of the company

Use your insider knowledge to your advantage. “Mention any cross-departmental collaborations to show your versatility and readiness for broader responsibilities,” Acikelli says. Discuss how your understanding of the company’s culture, goals, and challenges makes you a good fit for the new role.

“Having worked closely with [Department/Team], I am well-versed in the challenges we face in [specific area]. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to contribute to [specific initiative or project related to the new role], as I believe my experience and knowledge could greatly benefit our efforts.”

4. Align your skills with the new role

Clearly explain how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the new position. Be specific about what you bring to the table that will help you succeed in this role.

“My experience in [specific skill or area] has equipped me with the [specific abilities] needed to excel in the [New Job Title] role. I am confident that my background in [relevant experience] will allow me to [specific contribution].”

5. Express your commitment to growth

Demonstrate that you're eager to learn and grow within the company. Mention any relevant training or development you’ve pursued and how you plan to continue growing in the new role.

“I am committed to continuous professional development, as evidenced by my completion of [relevant training or certification]. I am eager to further develop my skills in [specific area] and contribute to [Company Name] in new and impactful ways.”

Cover letter template for internal position

Use the following cover letter template for internal position as a guide. This structure will help you effectively communicate your enthusiasm for the position while leveraging your internal experience to stand out as the ideal candidate.

[Your Name] [Your Current Job Title] [Company Name] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name] [Hiring Manager’s Job Title] [Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position that recently opened up in [Department Name]. Having been with [Company Name] for [X years], I have gained a deep appreciation for our company’s mission and values, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [specific department or project related to the new role] in this new capacity.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I have had the privilege of [mention your key achievements]. This experience deepened my understanding of [specific area or department] and inspired me to seek new challenges within [Company Name]. I am particularly drawn to the [Job Title] position because [specific reason related to the new role].

One of the aspects of [Company Name] that I value most is our commitment to [specific company value or mission], and I am eager to contribute to [specific project or initiative related to the new role] in a more direct way. I believe that my background in [relevant experience or skill] aligns perfectly with the needs of the [Job Title] position, and I am confident in my ability to [specific contribution or goal].

I am also committed to continuous growth and development, as evidenced by [mention any relevant training or certifications]. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to the [Job Title] role, and I look forward to the possibility of continuing to grow with [Company Name].

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to further discuss how I can contribute to the success of [Company Name] in this new role.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Bottom line

By carefully crafting your cover letter, you can position yourself as the ideal candidate for the role. Remember, your cover letter for an internal position is your chance to highlight your achievements, showcase your understanding of the company, and demonstrate your commitment to growth. With the right approach, you can successfully transition into a new role within the same company, taking your career to the next level. Good luck!

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Should You Use AI to Write Your Cover Letter?

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You may be tempted to have ChatGPT or another AI tool write your cover letter for you. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind.

Article originally written by Molly M. Kruse and published by USC Online

It’s more common than ever to use AI tools in everyday life to streamline complicated or time-consuming tasks. Whether you’re pivoting careers,  stepping back into the professional world after a break  or searching for a job after a layoff, writing dozens of cover letters can be daunting. So, you may be asking yourself: Should you use AI to write your cover letter for you? 

USC Online spoke to USC Career Center expert  Lori Shreve Blake  to find out when it’s appropriate to use AI in a cover letter — and when this tool should take a backseat. 

Do: Use AI to Understand the Job Description  

Writing a great cover letter  takes time, especially if you’re out of practice. While it’s important that your cover letter is written in your authentic voice, Shreve Blake said AI assistants can help you tailor it to the job you want.  

Shreve Blake suggests using an AI assistant like ChatGPT to generate keywords from a job description, which you can incorporate into your cover letter. You can also save time by asking AI to read a job description and summarize the key functions of the role.  

You can also ask AI tools like ChatGPT to write a first draft of the cover letter. But there are some important details that AI won’t be able to add. 

“You’re not going to state day-to-day duties in [your] cover letter,” Shreve Blake said. “You should emphasize your best accomplishments, share your unique qualifications, and demonstrate your professional fit for the role, your values and the organization’s alignment. Should you add quantifiers? Add numbers, percentages, [things] like that.” 

Job seekers might be tempted to cut corners with AI to save time, but Shreve Blake emphasized that there are other ways to speed up the process of writing a cover letter. Once you have a template of your cover letter with an introduction, middle paragraph and summary paragraph, you can customize sentences, interchange keywords, and add examples based on the job you’re applying to. You can also customize the formatting of the document.  

“I give an analogy of a house: Once you have that foundation of the cover letter completed with AI, then you can incorporate job-specific sentences as you see fit,” Shreve Blake said.  

Many people also find writing a cover letter becomes quicker and easier over time. 

“Writing cover letters is a skill, like other skills in life,” Shreve Blake said. “So, the more you do it, the faster and more confident you’re going to get.” 

Don’t: Neglect Your Research  

Researching your target employer is an integral step in the cover letter writing process. Applicants should visit the company’s website, read the mission statement and consider which of the company’s values resonates with them most. This research will help you put together an argument about why you’d make a great candidate — something an AI-generated cover letter can’t do, Shreve Blake said. 

“The cover letter is also a persuasive piece,” Shreve Blake said. “So, it’s almost like that interview question[s]: ‘Tell me about yourself. Why are you interested in this job? What unique skills and experience makes you the best person for the job?’”

Making these connections early in the application process prepares you for interviews later. This “process of self-reflection” helps you identify what the organization is looking for and which key achievements make you stand out, Shreve Blake said. 

Don’t: Forego Your Authentic Voice  

Although recruiters can’t always tell whether a cover letter was written by AI or a human, there are sophisticated tools that can detect it, Shreve Blake said. Recruiters have also told her that they don’t like the generic cover letters they see when reviewing applications and Shreve Blake challenges job seekers to ask the question: “What do you want your first impression to be with a potential employer?” 

“[If] the recruiter receives [a] generic, AI-written cover letter [and] one that is more custom to the job, which one do you think the recruiter is going to pick?” Shreve Blake said. “You must show integrity, you must show thought and care … It’s a test to see how you’ll be as an employee.” 

Whether or not you choose to use AI, be sure to inject your authentic voice into your cover letter and use it to showcase your writing skills. (If you’re at a loss for verbs, check out the USC Career Center’s  resume and cover letter booklet  for a helpful list of action words to incorporate.) Employers use cover letters to judge whether applicants will be the right fit for email- and communication-heavy jobs, Shreve Blake said. 

“I would say … [your] cover letter can be seen as a form of a work sample,” Shreve Blake said. “And it shows your future employer that you have skills in writing, that you possess attention to detail in submitting a cover letter that is grammatically correct and free of typos, that you have skills in communication, that you have skills in persuasion and strategic thinking.” 

Do: Use AI to Check Your Grammar  

Although you can speed up the process, writing a good cover letter takes time. So, you want to make sure your finished product is concise and easy to read. 

“[Recruiters] spend about 15–30 seconds [reading] the resume. They may spend even less time on the cover letter and many employers do not require a cover letter,” Shreve Blake said. 

This is where AI comes in. Shreve Blake  recommended using Grammarly  or a similar AI-powered writing assistant to give your cover letter a once-over after you are finished writing it. This ensures that your spelling and grammar are up to par and that there are no filler words clogging up your precious cover letter real estate.  

“Grammarly is a good tool to use to edit your cover letter,” Shreve Blake said. “Twenty years ago, it was common to write a cover letter and then let a friend or family member double-check it for meaning and typos before submitting it to a potential employer. … Well, now you don’t have to ask a friend or family member. … [You] can use Grammarly and do that.” 

Just remember to double-check your cover letter one more time after using a tool like Grammarly. Sometimes, AI takes your writing out of context, Shreve Blake warned. 

Don’t: Limit Your Focus to Just the Cover Letter  

Unfortunately, even writing a perfect cover letter sometimes won’t land you the job you want. Shreve Blake advised that people find additional ways to express their interest in a role or company, including  networking  and conducting informational interviews. 

“At the end of the day, AI doesn’t hire people. Humans hire humans. People hire people,” Shreve Blake said. 

Similarly, if someone at the company you are applying to is vouching for you, make sure not to make them look bad by submitting a generic, AI-written cover letter. After all, they are putting their reputations on the line for you, Shreve Blake said. 

In the end, securing your dream job is  all about going the extra mile . No matter what balance you choose to strike between using AI and writing the old-fashioned way, the goal remains the same: to create a cover letter that is tailored to the position you want and sells you well to your future employer.  

“And, let’s face it, cover letter writing is not easy.” Shreve Blake said. “So, not taking the easy way out and doing your research on the organization, addressing the right person, and going through the process of customizing the cover letter after using AI gives you a competitive edge.” 

Access more  career advice  from USC Online today.  

More From Forbes

3 tips for including internship experience in a cover letter.

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How to stand out from the crowd as a new grad with internship experience

If you are a fresh graduate looking for a new job, a cover letter can help paint a helpful context of who you are and why you would be an excellent fit for the company. For seasoned professionals with considerable career milestones, resumes are often adequate to show their skillsets and how they would perform at a new job. Indicators like the type of company, pace of promotion, and scope of responsibilities paint a picture for the hiring managers of how they can expect the candidate to perform even before the interviews.

The good news for new graduates is that they are on an even playing field as they embark on a new career path with their peers. The downside is the need for additional information for the candidate to stand out from the crowd. Internship experience can be an advantage if leveraged and narrated correctly. When a company hires a new graduate, it knows the lack of experience and proof points to consider in the candidate. They are therefore looking for genuine interest, willingness to learn, and potential in new grads. If you have internship experience, including them in your cover letter is an excellent opportunity to feature these qualities. Here are a few tips on how to do this best.

Showcase Your Decision-making Process

One risk of hiring new graduates is that they may quit quickly if they find that the industry or the job function is not what they expected. If you have interned at a similar company, you can explain how that experience solidified your interest in the field and helped you narrow down the jobs you are genuinely interested in. By discussing your decision-making process and how the internship provided real-life perspective, you can demonstrate that you are a knowledgeable decision-maker rather than someone who is simply influenced by outside perspectives.

On the other hand, if you interned in an entirely different industry and position, you can use this experience to demonstrate that you discovered what you truly want to pursue. Highlight the positive lessons learned during the internship and avoid speaking negatively about past opportunities. The crucial point is to showcase what you gained from the experience and how it has strengthened your interest in the current company and role.

Be Truthful About The Scope Of Your Experience

Internship experiences can vary widely depending on the company, from simply shadowing an employee to conducting in-depth analysis or participating in structured rotational programs. However, it's important to note that internships typically don't involve holding leadership positions or having significant decision-making authority. It's essential to be honest about your role and responsibilities during an internship, as exaggerating or misrepresenting your experience will likely be noticed by hiring managers.

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In addition, you should not disclose any confidential information about the company at any time. Keep your account of the experience brief and truthful.

Highlight Relevant Skillsets And Potential

If your previous internship provided you with the skills described in the job requirements for the position you are applying for, be sure to emphasize this and explain how you used those skills, as well as your eagerness to further develop them. For example, if you gained experience in analyzing complex datasets during your internship, highlight how you enhanced the company's training through your independent learning efforts, express your enthusiasm for the skill, and illustrate how it contributed to the team's goals to demonstrate your understanding of the practical application of your work. This can show your potential for growth, desire to learn, and proactive orientation towards your job, attributes all hiring managers seek.

When hiring recent graduates, hiring managers are aware that the candidates do not have extensive pre-existing skill sets or decision-making experience. They are hired with the expectation to learn quickly, contribute enough to offset the onboarding and training efforts, and hopefully grow within the company. Including an internship experience in your cover letter can help alleviate any concerns the hiring manager may have about your genuine interest in the company and role, and your desire to learn. It also provides a context for the kind of employee you will be, in ways a resume cannot for new grads.

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