how to address a cover letter to a school district

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Sample Cover Letter for a School Position

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Before You Write Your Cover Letter

How to write a cover letter for a school job, what to include in the letter, sample cover letter for an education position, sending an email cover letter.

Your cover letter will be the first—and most important—impression you give to the hiring manager.  Don’t presume your resume will speak for itself, especially if you are applying for a competitive job in education.

The goal of your cover letter is to make you stand out from the rest of the applicants, and there are several ways to draft a letter that will do just that.

There is some preparation work you should do before you write your letter.

Research the school or organization that is hiring. The more you know about the organization, the easier it will be to make the best impression.

Personalize Your Letter

You can use information gathered from the research you did on the employer to personalize your letter. This will show that you wrote the cover letter specifically for the position they are looking to fill, and that you are interested enough in the job to learn about the educational institution ahead of time.

Try to Find a Contact Person

Try to find out who will be reviewing your resume. Often, it will be the head of human resources or a hiring manager, or it could be the principal of the school. Sometimes this information can be found online within the job listing. You may be able to contact the school using the phone number or email address provided in the posting.

If you can't find a contact person, it's fine to use "To Whom It May Concern" or to simply start your letter with the first paragraph.

Use a writing style that is less formal than your resume when writing your cover letter; try to show your personality. The mission of your cover letter is to highlight you, your skills, and your accomplishments and to show your sincere interest in filling the position.

Your cover letter should include the following elements:

Salutation: If you can find a contact person, address the person by name in the greeting of your letter.

First Paragraph: Following the salutation, the first paragraph should thank this person for taking the time to review your resume. Also, it should explain why you are hoping to land the position. Be sure to specifically name the job title for which you are applying.

Second Paragraph: Explain why you're a good fit. Think of one or two notable reasons you feel you would be a good fit for the position. Do not be bashful.Be honest; you want to come across as confident and earnest. In the second paragraph, talk about your education and previous experiences that make you the ideal candidate for the position they are trying to fill.

Third Paragraph: Finally, the third paragraph should includea few closing statements. Express your enthusiasm for the job and how you feel you are the ideal fit for the role. It is also okay to be assertive and say something like, “I look forward to being contacted for an interview.”

Closing and Signature: End your letter with a formal closing, followed by your signature. If you are sending a hard copy cover letter with your resume, don’t forget to sign it.

This is an example of a cover letter for a school position. Download the school position cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Sample Cover Letter for an Education Position (Text Version)

Gloria Lau 87 Washington Street Smithfield, CA 08055 555-555-5555 gloria.lau@email.com

May 10, 2021

Ms. Rachel Lee Smithfield Elementary School 123 Main Street Smithfield, CA 08055

Dear Mr. Doe,

Thank you for taking the time to review my resume. I am applying for the Prevention Educator position because I am looking to use my degree in Elementary Education, in combination with my Concentration in Sociology, in an alternative way to a traditional teaching position.

I have had the opportunities to work with children and adults of all ages and abilities while I was student teaching for Acme College, substitute teaching in local districts, working as a Museum Educator, and as the assistant trainer at a local riding stable.

I am seeking a career that will allow me to continue working with people in many different ways. I hope you will find that I am qualified for the position you are trying to fill. 

If I can provide you with any further information on my background and qualifications, please let me know. I look forward to hearing from you. I can be reached at 555-555-5555 or via email at gloria.lau@email.com.

Again, I appreciate you taking the time to review my resume.

Gloria Lau (signature hard copy letter) 

If you're sending your cover letter via email, list your name and the job title in the subject line of the email message. Include your contact information in your email signature, and don't list the employer contact information. Start your email message with the salutation. 

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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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Career and Job Resources

Our career advising specialists and writers have prepared a series of articles to help you land the job you desire by improving your resume, cover letter, and interview skills.

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An Effective Cover Letter for a Teacher

According to a March, 2022 survey of National Education Association members, more than half of all U.S. teachers were considering leaving the profession due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That means many more in-person and remote learning jobs should be opening in the world of academia.

Your cover letter is an opportunity to make your application stand out, as well as address and highlight desirable skills the school district seeks. Rather than reiterating the content on your resume, write a cover letter that is fresh and adds something new to your application. Reviewing education cover letter examples will help you craft effective pitches each time.

Identify the Correct Recipient

If possible, avoid sending a letter to a school with a salutation like, "To Whom it May Concern," or "Principal." Try to find the person who will eventually get your cover letter and resume and address your cover letter to the person who will be reading it, recommends Purdue University's Online Writing Lab. This information may be listed in the job listing itself, but if it is not, you can ask the school district for the name of the individual who will receive your application.

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Sometimes applications are reviewed by a committee. In this case, where the names are not available, address the letter to the hiring committee. In cases where no information is available, address the letter to the school principal or the human resources manager. Once you know who will be getting your letter, look her up on the school website to see if her biography is included, or check out her LinkedIn page. You can use information you find to make a stronger connection by citing relevant information the two of you have in common.

Establish Your Fit

Every employer seeks specific qualifications and you should try to show you are a good fit for their situations, advises We Are Teachers.com. The site include a variety of teacher cover letter examples. These are listed in the job listing, but to make your cover letter really stand out, do a little research into the school's culture and vision. Read the school's mission statement and find out what is important to the school by researching their website.

Whether you are an experience teacher or are writing a student teacher cover letter, remember that teachers aren't supposed to focus on teaching math, science, English or chemistry – they focus on teaching children. Without being cheesy or generic, make sure you emphasize that you are looking for a career in teaching youngsters, not simply a job.

Read the resumes of existing teachers at the school, if these are publicly available online. Highlight keywords and trends you notice and integrate these into your cover letter and explain how you fit in. For example, some schools value research-based methods, national standards and diversity.

If you play a sport and can coach, or are willing to work as an assistant coach, include that. Many high schools need coaches and you might have an edge over another applicant who teaches the same subject you do but can't coach any sport.

Explain Things Using Keywords

Use the important words from the job posting throughout your cover letter. Review your resume critically and ask yourself what questions or concerns someone reading it may have, based on the job posting. Address any areas you identify in a positive manner that strengthens your overall application. And most importantly, highlight your teaching experience with specific examples. New teachers can highlight transferable skills gained from experience other than teaching.

Request an Interview

Ask for consideration and for an interview. Show your enthusiasm for the position by telling the employer you are eager to meet with her and discuss your qualifications in person. Make your contact information clear and correct. Mention your intention to follow up with the school district after a few days to make sure it is received and to inquire about the timeline for the review process.

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Sara Mahuron specializes in adult/higher education, parenting, budget travel and personal finance. She earned an M.S. in adult/organizational learning and leadership, as well as an Ed.S. in educational leadership, both from the University of Idaho. Mahuron also holds a B.S. in psychology and a B.A. in international studies-business and economics.