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• Grades 6-12
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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

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5 Teacher Cover Letter Examples & Templates for 2024

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

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

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

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

Teacher Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Copy this text for your Teacher cover letter!

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

January 12, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for your consideration,

Marcus DeWitt

Enclosures: Resume Application Transcripts

Level up your cover letter game

Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifting to write your cover letter in seconds.

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.

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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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• Career Blog

Teacher Cover Letter Sample and Writing Tips for 2024

As a teacher, your cover letter is your first introduction to a prospective employer. It is the document that can make or break your chances of landing that dream teaching job. That’s why teacher cover letters are incredibly important.

In this article, we will discuss the purpose and importance of teacher cover letters. We will also provide tips on how to write a winning cover letter that will stand out from the crowd. Ultimately, this article aims to provide aspiring and experienced teachers with a comprehensive guide to writing a teacher cover letter that will help them secure the teaching job of their dreams.

Our goal is to provide you with a complete understanding of what a teacher cover letter should include, how it should be structured, and what common mistakes to avoid. We will also provide you with a sample teacher cover letter to guide you in crafting your own personalized cover letter.

So, whether you’re an experienced educator looking to land a job in a new district or a newly-licensed teacher hoping to land their first teaching position, this article is for you. Let’s dive in and explore the world of teacher cover letters together.

Understanding the Role of a Teacher

As an aspiring teacher, it is important to have a deep understanding of the role and responsibilities that come with the profession. This section will provide an overview of the job description, as well as the qualifications and skills required for the position.

A. Teacher Job Description

The primary role of a teacher is to facilitate learning among students. This includes planning and delivering lesson plans, assessing student progress, and creating a positive and engaging classroom environment. Additionally, teachers are responsible for maintaining classroom management, communicating with parents and administrators, and staying up-to-date on the latest teaching methods and curriculum standards.

Furthermore, teachers are crucial in developing not only the academic skills of their students, but also their social and emotional growth. They must be able to connect with their students on a personal level, build trust, and create a safe and inclusive environment for all.

B. Qualifications and Skills Required for the Job

Becoming a teacher typically requires a Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field, as well as state certification in teaching. However, some alternative routes to certification may be available depending on the state or district.

In addition to formal education and certification, certain skills and qualities are necessary for success in this field. These include:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Patience and the ability to work with a diverse range of learners
• Creativity and adaptability in lesson planning and delivery
• Organizational skills and attention to detail
• A passion for lifelong learning and continuous professional development

Furthermore, depending on the grade level or subject matter, specific skills may be required. For example, a teacher of young children may need to have basic knowledge of child development and early literacy, while a high school math teacher should have advanced knowledge of mathematics and be able to explain complex concepts in a clear and engaging manner.

Becoming a teacher requires a combination of education, certification, and personal qualities. With dedication and hard work, anyone with a passion for teaching and a desire to make a difference in the lives of students can succeed in this fulfilling profession.

Importance of a Strong Teacher Cover Letter

A well-written and impactful cover letter can make a significant difference in a teacher’s job search. The following are some of the reasons why a strong teacher cover letter is essential:

A. What a cover letter does

A cover letter serves as the introduction of a teacher to a potential employer. It is an opportunity for the teacher to introduce themselves and highlight their relevant experiences and qualifications. The cover letter gives a teacher a chance to showcase their personality and convey their enthusiasm for the position. It can also provide a glimpse into the candidate’s communication style and writing ability.

B. How a cover letter helps in standing out from the competition

A cover letter allows a teacher to stand out from the competition by showing their unique strengths and experiences that align with the job requirements. A well-crafted cover letter that highlights a teacher’s relevant skills and experience can make a significant difference in the employer’s decision to shortlist the teacher for an interview. The cover letter can also demonstrate a teacher’s professionalism and their understanding of the specific school’s mission and values.

C. Customizing the cover letter for each application

Customization of the cover letter is crucial for each job application. A generic cover letter that is used for every job application may not showcase a teacher’s suitability for the specific role. A teacher must tailor their cover letter to the job description and provide relevant examples of how their experience and qualifications match the requirements. Researching the school’s mission, values and culture can also help to personalize the cover letter and demonstrate the teacher’s genuine interest in the position.

A strong teacher cover letter is an essential aspect of the job application process. It serves as an introduction to the teacher and can make them stand out from other candidates. A customized and well-written cover letter highlights a teacher’s relevant skills, experience, and enthusiasm for the role, making them a strong candidate for the interview.

Preparing to Write the Teacher Cover Letter

When it comes to writing a teacher cover letter, it’s important to thoroughly prepare before diving in. Here are some key factors to consider before putting pen to paper:

A. Key Factors to Consider Before Writing

Purpose of the Letter: Before you start writing your cover letter, determine the purpose of the letter. Are you introducing yourself to the school district? Are you applying for a specific teaching position? Understanding your purpose will help you tailor your letter accordingly.

Target Audience: Make sure you research the school or school district you are applying to and the type of teachers they are looking for. Ensure that the tone of the cover letter matches the culture of the school.

Your Strengths: Analyze your strengths as a teacher and how they can benefit the school. This will help you to make a compelling argument in your cover letter.

B. Researching About the School and Job

Conducting research about the school and job is crucial before writing your teacher cover letter. This will help you tailor your cover letter to the specific school and job. Here are some methods for conducting research:

Visit the school’s website: This is a great way to get an overall sense of the school’s culture, values, and teaching philosophy.

Network with current teachers: Reach out to current teachers at the school or in the district to learn more about the school culture and what it’s like to work there.

Consult with School District staff: Contact the school district and learn more about the specific position you’re interested in. Ask about the job responsibilities and expectations.

C. Outlining the Structure of the Cover Letter

When writing a teacher cover letter, it’s important to have a clear structure. Here’s an outline that can guide you when putting together your cover letter:

Opening Paragraph: Introduce yourself and explain why you’re writing the letter.

Body Paragraph 1: Discuss your teaching experience and strengths.

Body Paragraph 2: Explain what you know about the school and district and why you’re interested in the position.

Body Paragraph 3: Give specific examples of how you can contribute to the school and its mission.

Closing Paragraph: Thank the reader for considering your application and express your desire for an interview.

By following these steps, you can create a teacher cover letter that resonates with school districts and sets you on the path to a rewarding career.

Components of a Teacher Cover Letter

A. Heading and salutation

The heading of your teacher cover letter should include your name, address, and contact information. Following this, include the name, title, and address of the person you are addressing the letter to. Use a standard business letter format with a professional font and a plain white paper.

B. Opening paragraph

The opening paragraph of your teacher cover letter should be attention-grabbing and briefly summarize your experience and qualifications. This paragraph should explain why you are interested in the position and why you are the best candidate for the job.

C. Body paragraph

• Experience in teaching the specific subject

In the body paragraph of your teacher cover letter, you should highlight your experience and expertise in teaching the specific subject you are applying for. Demonstrate your knowledge of the subject matter and your ability to engage students in learning.

• Ability to use technology

The use of technology is becoming increasingly important in education. Highlighting your ability to use technology to enhance learning experiences for students can set you apart as a candidate. Share any experience you have using technology in the classroom.

• Experience with diverse students

In today’s diverse classrooms, teachers need to have skills and experience working with students from different backgrounds. Highlighting your experience working with diverse students can show that you are an inclusive and effective teacher.

• Use of differentiated instruction

Differentiated instruction is an important teaching approach that involves creating multiple paths to learning based on different students’ needs. Highlight your experience with differentiated instruction by including specific examples of how you have used this approach in your classroom.

D. Closing paragraph

In the closing paragraph of your teacher cover letter, wrap up your qualifications and explain why you are an ideal fit for the position. Thank the reader for considering your application and express your interest in discussing the position further in an interview. End the letter by offering to provide further information and thanking the reader for their time and consideration.

Remember, a teacher cover letter is your chance to make a lasting impression on the hiring manager. Ensure that you are highlighting your qualifications and experience in a unique and engaging way. Good luck with your job search!

Top Teacher Cover Letter Writing Tips

When it comes to writing a teacher cover letter, there are certain tips and tricks that can increase your chances of landing that dream job. Here are our top four tips:

A. Customizing the Cover Letter for Each Application

One of the most important things you can do when writing a teacher cover letter is to customize it for each specific job application. This means tailoring your letter to the requirements listed in the job posting and highlighting the skills and experiences that make you the perfect fit for that particular role. This can take some extra time and effort, but it will help you stand out from other applicants who are using a generic cover letter.

B. Demonstrating Passion for Teaching

One thing that all schools and hiring managers look for in a teacher is a genuine passion for the profession. Make sure to demonstrate this passion in your cover letter by talking about why you love teaching and what drives you to be the best teacher you can be. This can be a great way to make a personal connection with your potential employer and show them that you’re not just in it for the paycheck.

C. Emphasizing Quantifiable Achievements

Another way to make your teacher cover letter stand out is to emphasize your quantifiable achievements. This means highlighting specific accomplishments in your career that you can measure, such as test scores of your students, or awards you’ve received. This not only shows that you have a track record of success, it also demonstrates your commitment to the profession and your ability to achieve results.

D. Using Strong and Confident Language

Finally, when writing your cover letter, it’s important to use strong and confident language that showcases your skills and experience. Use action verbs to describe your accomplishments and experiences, and avoid using passive or weak language. This will help you come across as a confident and competent teacher who is ready to take on any challenge that comes your way.

By following these tips, you can create a teacher cover letter that stands out from the rest and gets you noticed by potential employers. So take the time to customize your letter, demonstrate your passion for teaching, emphasize your achievements, and use strong and confident language to make a lasting impression.

Teacher Cover Letter Example

A. Analyzing an Example Teacher Cover Letter

• Breaking Down the Structure
• Evaluating Strong and Weak Points

When it comes to the job search process, your cover letter can either make or break your chances of getting hired. As such, it is important to have a solid understanding of what makes for an effective teacher cover letter. In this section, we will analyze an example teacher cover letter by breaking down its structure and identifying its strong and weak points.

The example teacher cover letter we will be analyzing is written by a high school English teacher who is applying for a position at a prestigious private school. The cover letter is addressed to the head of the school and is two pages in length.

The cover letter follows a standard structure, with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction starts off with a strong opening sentence that demonstrates the teacher’s enthusiasm for the position. The first paragraph is dedicated to highlighting the teacher’s experience and qualifications. The following paragraphs provide specific examples of the teacher’s accomplishments and skills, such as implementing a new curriculum and incorporating technology into the classroom. The conclusion summarizes the teacher’s strengths and expresses a desire for an interview.

The example teacher cover letter is well-written and effectively showcases the teacher’s experience and qualifications. The strong opening sentence immediately captures the reader’s attention and sets a positive tone for the rest of the cover letter.

One of the strengths of the cover letter is the use of specific examples to support the teacher’s qualifications. For example, the teacher mentions implementing a new curriculum and incorporating technology into the classroom. These types of examples demonstrate that the teacher is proactive and innovative in their teaching approach.

However, there are some weak points in the cover letter as well. While the use of specific examples is effective, at times the teacher’s writing can be overly verbose, making the letter feel a bit long-winded. Another weakness is that the teacher doesn’t include any information about the school and why they are specifically interested in working there.

B. Providing a Sample Teacher Cover Letter

Dear Head of School,

I am excited to apply for the High School English Teacher position at XYZ Private School. With over five years of experience teaching English at the high school level, I am confident in my ability to create a dynamic and engaging classroom environment that fosters student growth and learning.

Throughout my career, I have implemented a range of teaching strategies to meet the needs of diverse learners. For example, I developed and taught a new curriculum that incorporated project-based learning and cross-curricular connections, resulting in a 25% increase in student engagement and achievement.

In addition, I have a proven track record of integrating technology into my classroom to enhance student learning. For instance, I use online discussion forums to facilitate class discussions and provide extensive feedback on student writing through Google Docs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Teacher Cover Letter

As a teacher, your cover letter is your first chance to make a great impression on potential employers. It’s important to avoid the following common mistakes in order to ensure your cover letter stands out and gets noticed:

A. Overuse of clichés and generic language

Clichés and generic language can make your cover letter sound unoriginal and impersonal. It’s important to use specific, meaningful language that clearly demonstrates your qualifications and enthusiasm for the job. Avoid using phrases like “team player,” “dedicated educator,” or “passionate teacher,” as they are overused and lack authenticity. Instead, focus on giving concrete examples of your teaching experience and how you meet the specific qualifications for the job.

B. Not tailoring the cover letter for the specific school and job

It’s important to tailor your cover letter to the specific school and job you are applying for. A generic cover letter may come off as lazy or unengaged. Do your research on the school and the job opening, and make sure to highlight how your skills and experience align with their specific needs. This will show that you are genuinely interested in the position and have taken the time to understand what the school is looking for in a teacher.

C. Grammatical errors and typos

Grammatical errors and typos can quickly disqualify you from consideration for a teaching position. Make sure to proofread your cover letter thoroughly and use tools like spellcheck to catch any mistakes. It’s also a good idea to have someone else read over your cover letter to catch any errors you may have missed.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a compelling and effective teacher cover letter that highlights your qualifications and enthusiasm for the job. Remember, your cover letter is your chance to make a great first impression, so take the time to make it great!

Fine-tuning Your Teacher Cover Letter

As a seasoned teacher, you’re likely no stranger to the importance of proofreading and editing. The same should be true for your teacher cover letter.

A.  Importance of proofreading and editing

It’s easy to underestimate the significance of proofreading and editing, but it can make or break your application. Even the tiniest mistakes could give the wrong impression to a potential employer. Errors can suggest a lack of care, professionalism, or attention to detail, all of which are essential qualities for a teacher.

Before submitting your cover letter, ensure that you’ve meticulously scrutinized it for grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes. Use tools such as Grammarly, Hemingway, or ProWritingAid to help you catch errors you may have missed. Read it aloud to yourself or have someone else read it to see if it flows smoothly and if your message comes across clearly. Any mistakes perfectly showcase negligence and may cost you a job opportunity.

B.  Asking for feedback

When it comes to crafting an effective teacher cover letter, seeking feedback can be a highly effective strategy. Sometimes, you know what you’re trying to communicate, but you’re not sure if it’s coming across correctly. Receiving critical feedback can help you identify areas of weakness and help you to address them.

First, ask close friends or family members to read your letter and provide feedback. Then, consider reaching out to your professional network. Do you have an experienced teacher on your LinkedIn connections that’d be willing to give tips? What about former colleagues or mentors? Always remember to contact people with your best interest in mind.

Crafting the perfect teacher cover letter requires a multi-step process, but it is a crucial component to landing your dream teaching job. Combining best practices in writing, formatting, and content with specific examples of your skills, experiences, and achievements can set you apart from other applicants. Don’t underestimate the power of feedback and proofreading. Taking the time to perfect your cover letter can make all the difference.

Submitting Your Teacher Cover Letter

When applying for a teaching position, your cover letter is an essential component of your job application. You could be the most qualified candidate with an impressive resume, but your cover letter acts as your introduction and can set the tone for the rest of your application. Thus, it’s crucial to submit a well-written and professional-looking teacher cover letter. Here are some tips on how to submit one effectively.

A. Importance of Following Submission Instructions

Before you hit that send button, make sure you’ve carefully read and followed the submission instructions provided by the hiring manager or the school’s HR department. Ignoring these guidelines can be a costly mistake, as it could result in your application being unintentionally disqualified.

Submission instructions may include requirements such as the file format or font size of your cover letter, the number of pages it should be, or whether it should be attached as a PDF or within the email body itself.

For example, if the instructions specifically state that you should not attach any additional files apart from your resume and cover letter, do not include any additional documents. Respecting these instructions demonstrates your attention to detail and ability to follow directives, qualities that are highly valued in an educator.

B. Including Necessary Documents

In addition to your cover letter, you may be asked to submit additional documents such as a teaching philosophy, a list of references, or a copy of your teaching certification. Ensure that you’ve addressed all required documents before submission.

If you are required to submit additional documents or materials, be sure to give them the appropriate attention they deserve. For instance, your teaching philosophy is an excellent opportunity to showcase your teaching style, your beliefs, and your commitment to your students’ learning experience.

Provide your list of references with proper contact information and a brief description of your previous work relationship. This will aid the HR department in verifying your past work experience and getting a well-rounded view of you as a teacher.

When submitting your cover letter, always proofread for spelling, grammar, and tone to ensure that it is clear, concise, and compelling. Your cover letter should show why you are a good fit, emphasize your qualifications, and express your enthusiasm for the teaching profession.

Submitting your teacher cover letter requires attention to detail, following submission instructions, and including all necessary documents. By doing so, you increase your chances of making a memorable first impression and securing a teaching position.

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Teacher cover letter example

To land the best teaching jobs, you must have an effective cover letter.

Your cover letter is a brief note which introduces your CV, to ensure it gets opened by recruiters.

In this guide, I will show you how to write the perfect teacher cover letter, by sharing some real-life cover letter examples, and walking you through the process of writing one.

It will provide you with everything you need to grab schools’ attention, and land the jobs you want.

Guide contents

• Teacher cover letter examples
• How to write a cover letter for your CV
• What to include in a teacher cover letter

Teacher cover letter example 1

Teacher cover letter example 2

These example teacher cover letters provide you with a good steer on how your cover letter should look, and the type of information you should include.

Of, course your own cover letter will be unique and depend on the content of your CV , and the jobs you are applying for.

Build your CV now 

How to write a teacher cover letter

In this section of the guide, I will provide a step-by-step breakdown of how to write your own attention grabbing teacher cover letter.

Overview of a good cover letter

The example below shows you the 7 key steps needed to write a cover letter which will effectively introduce you to recruiters, and encourage them to open up your CV.

Here is some more detailed guidance on writing your cover letter.

Write the cover letter in the body of your email/message

The purpose of your cover letter, is to build an initial rapport with the recipient, and give them some good reasons to open your teaching CV .

By writing your cover letter within the body of an email (or job website message box) you ensure that it is instantly seen when the recruiter or school hiring manager opens the message.

If you attach the cover letter as a separate document, the recruiter will be staring at blank page when they open your application… not a great first impression.

Cover letter tip:  Where possible, try to obtain a name and email address for the recruiter, so that you can email them directly – this will increase your chances of them receiving your CV and application. This will not always be achievable, but use Google and LinkedIn to try and track them down.

Write a compelling subject line

When sending your application via email, the subject line can make a huge difference.

Look at the recruiter’s inbox below… Most of the subject lines are boring and blend into the background.

If you write an appealing subject line, which relates to the role you are applying for, you stand a much better chance of being noticed.

To be noticed by a recruiter, you simply need to give them what they are looking for.

For teaching roles, create a subject line which reflects the skills and experience being asked for in the the job adverts you are responding to, like these examples.

• Newly Qualified teacher with primary curriculum expertise
• Senior secondary maths teacher with 8 years experience
• Primary teacher with KS2 knowledge in UK private schools

Employers are desperate to see these key words, so adding them to your email subject line will almost guarantee your application gets opened.

Address the recruiter/employer by name

When your cover letter is read by a recruiter or hiring manager, it allows you to start building rapport with them.

Addressing a person by name, is the best way to make a connection with them.

If you begin your cover letter with an impersonal phrase like “dear sir” then it will seem as though you are simply firing off the same cover letter to all of your applications.

Using the recruiter’s first name, shows them you’ve taken the time to learn about the job in question.

But, how do you find the contact’s name?

Often the name of the person recruiting for a role will appear on the job advert, but if not, you can also find it one of the following ways:

• Scour the employer’s website to find the most likely person to be hiring for the position
• Search LinkedIn for the company and/or department, and look through their managers or recruiters.

You won’t always be able to find a name, but always try – it can make a big impact to include one.

Write in a friendly but professional tone

Whilst a cover letter needs to make a personal connection with the reader, it also needs to be flawlessly professional.

This can be a tricky balancing act, but the best way to achieve it by using professional terminology, combined with a simple sentence structure.

You can also throw in some friendly terms like, “hope you’re well” at the beginning of the cover letter, and “look forward to hearing from you” at the end of the message.

Of course, you need to check your message for spelling and grammar errors before sending – any silly mistakes will look very unprofessional.

Highlight your most relevant skills

When a recruiter reads your cover letter, they will be looking for signs that your CV is worth opening.

If nothing in your cover letter tells them that you are a good candidate for the vacancy in question, they won’t open it – they will move on to the next application in their overflowing inbox.

So, before writing your cover letter, read the job adverts carefully and understand which of your skills the recruiter wants to see the most.

Once you know the core requirements for the job, try to work as many of them as possible into your teaching cover letter.

The more suitable you appear, the more likely it is that a recruiter or hiring teacher will be persuaded to open your CV.

Keep it brief

School hiring managers and education recruiters see literally hundreds of applications every week – so keep your cover letter short and punchy.

The days of A4 length cover letters are long gone – people simply don’t have the time to read them, due to the sheer volume of applications being made.

Keep your cover note to around 5-10 sentences long. This should give you enough space to cover all of your selling points, without becoming a tedious read.

You should also look to break up the text on the page to create a pleasant reading experience.

Sign off professionally

To maintain your professional outlook, sign off with a professional signature that contains your vital contact details.

This looks smart, and allows recruiters to contact you easily.

Include your full name, email address and phone number as a minimum.

You can also include a link to your LinkedIn profile, or any other social profiles that are relevant to your work.

What to include in your teacher cover letter

Here are some common teaching attributes to include in your cover letter, but of course, yours will be unique to your situation.

Schools you’ve taught at –  Have you taught at mainstream primary schools? SEN secondary schools? Private school?

Students you teach  – Do you work with SEN pupils? solely year 6 students? gifted children?

Subject  knowledge – Are you an expert in GCSE English? mathematics? PE? KS2 curriculum?

Level of experience – Are you an NQT ? Or do you have many years of teaching experience?

Core teaching skills  – Things like classroom management, head of department experience, planning, assessments, managing parent relationships.

Results you deliver  – Have you boosted exam results? Decreased spending? Improved Ofsted reports?

A teacher cover letter for your CV

Writing your teacher cover letter can be challenging, but it’s worth dedicating some time to perfecting the art, if you want to land job interviews.

Just remember to keep it brief, write in a personable tone, and pack it with your most in-demand teaching skills.

Good luck with your job search!

2 Teacher Cover Letter Examples

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

Cover Letter Examples

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

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

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

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

Related Cover Letters for Teachers

Teacher assistant cover letter.

Substitute Teacher Cover Letter

Preschool Teacher Cover Letter

Elementary Teacher Cover Letter

Teacher Cover Letter

Daycare Teacher Cover Letter

Related resumes for teachers, teacher resume example.

Try our AI-Powered Resume Builder

21 Professional Teacher Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your teacher cover letter should immediately grab the attention of the hiring committee. Showcase your passion for teaching and commitment to educational excellence from the first line. In the second paragraph, highlight your relevant experience and key achievements. Illustrate how your skill set and teaching philosophy align with the school's mission and values.

All cover letter examples in this guide

Art Teacher

Bilingual Teacher

Biology Teacher

Computer Science Teacher

Creative Art Teacher

Dance Teacher

History Teacher

Language Teacher

Lead Teacher

Math Teacher

Music Teacher

Piano Teacher

Retired Teacher

Science Teacher

Social Studies Teacher

Spanish Teacher

Teacher For Career Change

Technology Teacher

Theatre Teacher

Transitioning Teacher

Cover letter guide.

Teacher Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Teacher Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

Embarking on the job hunt, you've realized that the perfect teaching position requires more than just a polished resume; it demands a compelling teacher cover letter. Avoid merely echoing your CV. Instead, weave a narrative around a crowning professional achievement, showcasing your unique value. Striking the right balance between formality and originality—bypassing clichés—is crucial. Remember, your introduction to potential employers should be concise; a single page is your canvas to make a lasting impression.

• Including all the must-have paragraphs in your structure for an excellent first impression;
• Learning how to write individual sections from industry-leading cover letter examples;
• Selecting the best accomplishment to tell an interesting and authority-building professional story;
• Introducing your profile with personality, while meeting industry standards.

And, if you want to save some time, drag and drop your teacher resume into Enhancv's AI, which will assess your profile and write your job-winning cover letter for you.

If the teacher isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Teacher resume guide and example
• Sunday School Teacher cover letter example
• Kindergarten Teacher cover letter example
• Summer School Teacher cover letter example
• Academic cover letter example
• Biology Teacher cover letter example
• Pre K Teacher cover letter example
• School Counselor cover letter example
• Mentor cover letter example
• Preschool Assistant Teacher cover letter example
• Distance Learning Teacher cover letter example

Teacher cover letter example

Aiden Kelly

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Demonstrating specific impactful initiatives, such as the extracurricular sessions that improved student retention rates, conveys the applicant's ability to implement successful educational strategies.
• Referencing quantifiable achievements (e.g., raising retention from 75% to 89%) provides concrete evidence of the candidate's effectiveness in their role and suggests a results-oriented mindset.
• Expressing an eagerness to collaborate and bring expertise to the hiring institution shows the candidate's enthusiasm and readiness to contribute positively to the new environment.
• Highlighting not just subject knowledge but also pedagogical skills and success in fostering a passion for learning among students illustrates a well-rounded instructional approach that goes beyond textbook teaching.

What should your teacher cover letter look like - formatting and organizing your information

Have you ever wondered what are the must-have sections you need to include in your teacher cover letter? Our builder sets those up for you with:

• Header - dedicated to your contact information, the role you're applying for, and the date (don't forget to include your name);
• Greeting and opening paragraph - to create a personalized and memorable experience for recruiters;
• Body paragraph - emphasizing your skill set and knowledge that aligns with the role and helps you to stand out;
• Closing paragraph - leaving a great impression and ending with an optional signature.

Use a cover letter template to discover the best formatting for your teacher cover letter: that is single-spaced paragraphs and wrapping your content in a one-inch margin.

Ensure that both your resume and teacher cover letter are in the same font . Stand apart from the crowd by using modern, yet simple fonts, like Chivo and Rubik, instead of the overused Arial and Times New Roman.

Did you know that the Applicant Tracker System (or ATS) won't be assessing your teacher cover letter? Instead, submit your profile in PDF to recruiters to keep the same formatting and the design intact.

The top sections on a teacher cover letter

Header: Includes your contact information, date, and the employer's contact details, serving as a professional introduction and making it easy for the school to reach you.

Salutation: Addresses the hiring manager or school principal directly, showing that you've done your research and personalizing the cover letter to the specific educational institution.

Introduction: Captures the recruiter’s attention by mentioning your teaching philosophy, passion for education, or a notable achievement relevant to the teaching position.

Body: Highlights your teaching experience, educational background, and skills, demonstrating how they align with the job description and the school's values, curriculum, and community.

Closing and Signature: Ends the cover letter with a polite expression of your eagerness to discuss how you can contribute to the school, followed by a professional sign-off and your full name.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Classroom management skills: Demonstrates ability to maintain a productive learning environment.
• Knowledge of pedagogical methodologies: Indicates the teacher's understanding of effective teaching and learning strategies.
• Subject matter expertise: Shows mastery in the specific area the teacher will be instructing.
• Adaptability and flexibility: Reflects the teacher's willingness to handle diverse classrooms and adapt to various educational needs.
• Experience with educational technology: Highlights proficiency with digital tools that enhance learning experiences.
• Commitment to professional development: Suggests the teacher's dedication to continuous learning and staying current in educational trends and best practices.

How to personalize your teacher cover letter greeting

Before you start writing your teacher cover letter, take the time to find out who is recruiting for the role.

Search for the recruiter's name on LinkedIn or the corporate website to address them personally in your teacher cover letter salutation .

What if you can't find out who's recruiting for the role?

Always aim to avoid the very impersonal "Dear Sir/Madam" - instead, opt out for "Dear HR Team" or "Dear Hiring Manager" to make a better first impression.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [School Name] Selection Committee,
• Dear [Department Head's Title and Last Name],
• Dear Principal [Last Name],
• Dear Superintendent [Last Name],
• Dear Director [Last Name],

Your teacher cover letter introduction and the value you bring

Moving on from the "Dear Recruiter" to your professional introduction .

Use those first two sentences of your teacher cover letter to present the biggest asset you'd bring to the organization.

Don't go into too much detail about your achievement or the skill set, but instead - go straight for the win.

That is - what is your value as a professional?

Would you be able to build stronger, professional relationships in any type of communication? Or, potentially, integrate seamlessly into the team?

Choosing your best achievement for the middle or body of your teacher cover letter

Now that you have the recruiters' attention, it's time to write the chunkiest bit of your teacher cover letter .

The body consists of three to six paragraphs that focus on one of your achievements.

Use your past success to tell a story of how you obtained your most job-crucial skills and know-how (make sure to back these up with tangible metrics).

Another excellent idea for your teacher cover letter's middle paragraphs is to shine a light on your unique professional value.

Write consistently and make sure to present information that is relevant to the role.

Two ideas on how to end the final paragraph of your teacher cover letter

Closing your teacher cover letter , you want to leave a memorable impression on recruiters, that you're a responsible professional.

End your cover letter with how you envision your growth, as part of the company. Make realistic promises on what you plan to achieve, potentially, in the next six months to a year.

Before your signature, you could also signal hiring managers that you're available for the next steps. Or, a follow-up call, during which you could further clarify your experience or professional value.

Keep this in mind when writing your zero experience teacher cover letter

Even though you may not have any professional experience , your teacher cover letter should focus on your value.

As a candidate for the particular role, what sort of skills do you bring about? Perhaps you're an apt leader and communicator, or have the ability to analyze situations from different perspectives.

Select one key achievement from your life, outside work, and narrate a story that sells your abilities in the best light.

If you really can't think of any relevant success, you could also paint the picture of how you see your professional future developing in the next five years, as part of the company.

Key takeaways

Turning your teacher cover letter into a success is all about staying authentic to yourself and relevant to the job:

• Be creative with your teacher cover letter introduction by stating something you enjoy about the company (that is genuine) or about your skill set (to get the recruiters' interested);
• Use single spacing and have a one-inch margin wrapping all around the content of your teacher cover letter;
• Select just one past achievement from your career or life to tell a story of how you've obtained job-crucial skills and how they'd be beneficial to the role;
• The finishing paragraph of your teacher cover letter doesn't necessarily have to be a signature but could be a promise of what you plan to achieve in the role;
• Instead of focusing on your lack of experience, spotlight your transferable skills, one relevant achievement, and career dreams.

Teacher cover letter examples

Explore additional teacher cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Cover letter examples by industry

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Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

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Teacher cover letter example

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best format for a teacher cover letter example

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

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

Dear Principal Wilson,

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

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

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

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

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

Yours sincerely,

Grace McKenna

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

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

Similar cover letter examples from the same field:

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

Cover letter header

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

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

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

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

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

Cover letter greeting / salutation

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

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

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

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

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

Cover letter introduction

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

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

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

Cover letter middle paragraphs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Writing psychology: cover letter sample tools and strategies

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

How to incorporate the empathetic approach

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

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

Teacher cover letter example with no experience

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

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

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

Teacher cover letter format and common mistakes

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

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

How to format to impress

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

For more formatting tips, check out this handy guide.

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

Key takeaways

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

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

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Teacher Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

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

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

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

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

1. Format your teacher cover letter header & headline correctly

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

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

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

Formatting the header

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

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

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

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

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

Writing the headline

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Examples of personalized greetings on a teacher cover letter include

Dear Principal John Higgins,

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

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

3. Write an attention-grabbing teacher cover letter introduction

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Key skills to describe within these body paragraphs include

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I look forward to discussing this opportunity with your further.

Appreciatively,

[Applicant Name]

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

6. Top resources for job-seeking teachers

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

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

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

Teacher Cover Letter FAQ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How should I handle employment gaps in my cover letter?

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

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

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

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Teacher Cover Letter Formats

How to convince the school you are the ideal candidate.

Writing an attention-grabbing teacher cover letter to go along with your teacher resume can often be a frustrating and stressful task. Using a standard cover letter template as a fallback can sabotage a winning resume. Even worse, not including a covering letter will look as though your computer applied for the teaching position. True, deciding what to include and what to leave out can be a difficult task, yet you must make the effort if you want an interview invitation.

If putting your cover letter together is bringing you stress, read our " A-Z Cover Letter Writing Tips " for teachers and administrators It shows you how to structure a winning cover letter for a teaching position.

Using the Sections of a Cover Letter to Target Teaching Jobs

Once you have chosen a format for your teacher cover letter and are comfortable with the layout, it is easy to tweak it to suit different teaching jobs. Let's get started! Your cover letter should be divided into three distinct parts: the introductory paragraph , the body of the letter, and your closing paragraph . Here are some user-friendly tips on what to include in each section:

The Cover Letter’s Introductory Paragraph

The introductory paragraph of your letter is incredibly important because it is your first chance to gain your reader’s attention and make a great first impression. You should try to address your cover letter to a specific person, if possible. You can do this by inquiring about the hiring manager’s or human resources manager’s name. Make sure to double check the spelling of the person’s name. You don’t want to ruin a first impression by spelling their name incorrectly!

Your first paragraph should clearly state the position name and posting number for the teaching job you are applying to. As well, if you have been referred to the job opening by an existing teacher, it’s important to state this information as well, as this can often go in your favor.

Alternatively, you may be submitting your documents when there is no formal job posting. In these cases, you want to convince the principal that it is worthwhile reading your cover letter and resume and, ideally, be placed in the follow up stack for consideration as a future hire.

Generic letters are five times less likely to get a response. For each job position, tailor your cover letter to the position advertised. Do not leave connections to chance. Make the match for the reader!

This elementary teacher cover letter sample makes a direct match to the elementary school teacher job qualifications in the opening sentences of the first and second paragraph. First, the education match is made. The candidate has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education. Immediately following, we learn she has 15 years of classroom experience.

A hit! An experienced elementary school teacher – let's read on!

The second paragraph introduces her commitment 'toward the empowerment of elementary school children,' followed by her experience and teaching approach.  

The Cover Letter's Body

The cover letter’s body is where you try to show the reader how you are the best teaching candidate for the position. In these paragraphs , you must capture the principal’s interest, so they want to read on to your resume. You can make a strong cover letter body by focusing on your related achievements, skills, and education that are related to the position you are applying to. By demonstrating your talents in these areas, you will show the reader that you are an excellent fit for the job.

Even if you are writing a cover letter as a new teacher with no experience , there is valuable information from past work experiences, internships, practiums, and college courses you can incorporate. You will need to dig for these and find a creative way to communicate your relevant skills and experience as a beginning teacher. It takes time and deep thought to write an excellent cover letter for an experienced teacher or a first year teacher - so allocate the time necessary to get it right.

This math teacher cover letter sample provides numerous examples of how the teacher facilitates math learning at all levels of student ability. Try and avoid simply listing attributes. Make connections for the reader and tell a story.

"By incorporating class discussions, open-ended questions, and cooperative learning, I am able to facilitate a highly interactive and inquisitive classroom atmosphere."

The job candidate and author of this secondary school teacher cover letter example provides a thoughtful and impactful philosophy of teaching statement:

"I have found the method of facilitating rather than dictating to be a highly beneficial style of teaching. I have learned that if students construct their own learning experiences they will not only retain information longer, but they also will become more confident in their abilities."

The hiring managers, however, want to see examples and evidence. She could have included qualitative and quantitative examples of learning outcomes produced as a direct result of this teaching approach:

"My empowered class of learners has increased their reading and math scores by 12% percent, and has become self-initiated learners. For example, they check out twice as many books from the library."

Do Your Due Diligence: Research the School

Doing your research can yield excellent results. Learning about the school district can help you tailor your cover letter to what the school district is looking for. You can find information on both the school district and the specific school you are applying to by visiting their website. Take your time to read through it and gather pertinent information.

Discover what programs, projects, and potential issues are at the forefront for them. By bringing these issues up in your cover letter and showing that you have the necessary skills and experiences they are seeking, you will most likely impress the principal reading your letter.

Try and put your own stamp on your cover letter; let your personality and passion for the job shine through. Tell the principal why you are interested in the position and how you can contribute to the school community. If you can communicate how your teaching skills and experiences can benefit the school, you will have a good chance at being called for an interview.

The Cover Letter’s Concluding Paragraph

Your cover letter should end by re-stating your enthusiasm for the position. It should also state your interest in being called for an interview. Specify how the reader can get in touch with you and thank them for their time and consideration.

In this section, you may find the use of original language to be challenging. The biggest risk in a cover letter is using repetitive, formulaic language. The reader sees these same statements over and over again, and thus tends to gloss over them with glazed eyes. The challenge is to draw on your own experience to provide an original hook. Try to not only open your cover letter with a hook, but also end it with a hook to keep the reader interested.

This music teacher cover letter sample wakes up the reader by adding a call to action that requires action on his/her part.

"In closing, I look forward to meeting you to discuss in greater detail how I can contribute to the continued success of your music program. If you have any questions, or would like to set a time to meet, please feel free to contact me at the number listed above."

Let's add a more compelling ending.

"I will leave you with this short video clip of me on the piano teaching the music scales and singing Christmas carols with my special education class – a fun activity we all thoroughly enjoyed."

This additional sentence packs a powerful punch. You have provided an example of you in action as a teacher, engaging the students and having fun while learning. I challenge you to come up with a list of original ways of ending your cover letter – ideally ways that demonstrate evidence of your teaching ability.

After you write your cover letter, it is important to have it proofread by someone else. Even if you think it’s perfect, it’s always a good idea to have a fresh pair of eyes look at it. Sometimes you can be blind to your own mistakes. So, it is always recommended to have it double checked before you send it off.

Check out these 6 common mistakes NOT to make on your application letter and information you should always include in an education cover letter when searching for a teaching job position. Read a recent blog post about how to highlight your skills and strengths in your teacher resume and cover letter.

Learn more about Candace Alstad-Davies by reviewing my about me page . From that page, you can review testimonials and frequently asked questions.

Are you in need of help with creating a professional quality introduction letter, cover letter, resume, or CV? Take the time to review and order one of our resume packages or individual services .

Have questions, please connect by sending an email to Candace or call toll-free at 1 877 738-8052. I would enjoy chatting with you.

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How to Start a Cover Letter: 30 Creative Opening Sentences Recruiters Will LOVE

Wondering how to start a cover letter? Traditional cover letter wisdom might tell you to begin with something like, “Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to apply for the marketing manager position with the Thomas Company.” But we say: A cookie cutter cover letter intro feels as outdated as a Hotmail address.

A cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself to a hiring manager—who you are, what you have to offer, and why you want the job—but you have an extremely limited amount of space to do it. If you really want to get noticed, you’ve got to start right off the bat with something that grabs your reader’s attention.

What do we mean? Well, we won’t just tell you, we’ll show you. Keep reading to find tips on how to start a cover letter, along with 30 creative cover letter opening lines and sentence examples.

Still looking for that perfect next role? One of these open jobs on The Muse just might be the one »

5 tips on how to start off a cover letter

Here are a few pointers to guide you as you use our example cover letter openings—we’re getting there, we promise!—to craft your own:

1. Avoid boring or overused openers

Recruiters have read cover letters that start with lines like “I’m excited to apply for the front-end engineering position,” or “Your job posting on The Muse prompted me to…” so often they could wallpaper their homes with them. While those are OK and still acceptable, you'll have a better shot at impressing potential employers with a less cliché opening line.

2. Be lively and personable

People like reading interesting, engaging stuff—the kind that paints a picture, tells a story, and maybe even makes them smile. People like it when you’re human, genuine, and memorable. So figure out something about yourself and your background that relates to the company or position you're interested in, and use that to build a connection.

3. Show what you bring the company

You’ll get more into the details after your opening paragraph, of course. But your cover letter opener should still tell the reader, “This person can do something for us,” rather than, “This job would really help them.”

4. Stick to the point

Your opener, while creative, should still be relevant to the job. Don’t begin by highlighting an unrelated accomplishment or recounting an anecdote that never connects back to why you’re applying for the job. Part of writing an effective cover letter is curating key information that relates to that specific job opportunity and shows the reader that you're a good fit for the role.

5. Don't start with “To Whom It May Concern”

Find an alternative to “ To Whom It May Concern .” Seriously, banish those five words from your cover letter vocabulary forever. Nowadays, this phrase is seen as outdated, overused, and even rude—especially when better options exist.

30 cover letter opening sentence examples

We’ve come up with 30 creative cover letter opening sentence examples and separated them by the method they use to grab the reader’s attention. We don’t recommend copying and pasting because, well, your cover letter should be unique to your stories, background, and interests.

But you can most definitely use these examples to get inspired for your next application. (If you’re looking to see what an entire cover letter might look like, check out our article on the best cover letter examples for every type of job seeker .)

Start with passion

Employers want to hire people who care about what they’re doing. If you start your cover letter off talking about your passions and how they relate to the job, you’re telling the reader that you’ll be an engaged and motivated employee who’s likely to stick around. Plus, it’s a good way to tell the company a bit about who you are as a person right off the bat. Just be honest and realistic.

If truly loving data is wrong, I don’t want to be right. It seems like the rest of the folks at [Analytics Company] feel the same way—and that’s just one of the reasons why I think I’d be the perfect next hire for your sales team.

I’ve been giving my friends and family free style advice since I was 10, and recently decided it’s time I get paid for it. That’s why I couldn’t believe it when I found an open personal stylist position at [Company].

After about three years of trying out different roles at early-stage startups around San Francisco, watching more “ find your passion “ keynotes than I’d like to admit, and assuring my parents that, yes, I actually do have a real job, I’m starting to come to terms with the fact that I’m happiest when I’m doing two things: writing great content and getting it out into the world.

The other day, I took a career assessment , which told me I should be a maritime merchant. I’m not quite sure what that is, but it did get me thinking: A role that combines my skills in business development with my lifelong passion for the ocean would be my absolute dream. Which is how I found this role at Royal Caribbean.

As a kid, I once gave up a day of a family vacation to transport an injured lizard I found by our hotel two hours each way to the nearest animal hospital (and talked my dad into driving me pre-GPS!). When I was a bit older, I found out I could care for animals every day for a living, and I’ve been working toward that goal ever since.

I am constantly checking my LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram feeds—and not because of FOMO. Because I’m someone who wholeheartedly believes in the power of sharing ideas in online communal spaces, and I’m positive that I can help spark meaningful conversations as your next social media assistant.

When I was growing up, I wanted to be one of those people who pretend to be statues on the street. Thankfully, my career goals have become a little more aspirational over the years, but I still love to draw a crowd and entertain the masses—passions that make me the perfect community manager.

Start with admiration

Companies often want to hire people who already know, love, eat, and sleep their brand. What better to kick off your cover letter than a little flattery? Of course, remember when you’re telling a company why you love it to be specific and genuine. Because while everyone likes a compliment, no one likes obvious self-serving B.S.

I pretty much spent my childhood in the cheap seats at Cubs games, snacking on popcorn and cheering on the team with my grandfather. It’s that memory that’s shaped my career—from helping to establish the sports marketing major at my university to leading a college baseball team to an undefeated season as assistant coach—and what led me to apply for this position at the Chicago Cubs.

It was Rudy, my Golden Retriever, who first inspired me to apply to your operations assistant opening—not only have we used your app to find other dogs to play with in our neighborhood, he’s really excited about the prospect of coming to work with me every day. As I learned more about how [Company] is using modern tech to help pets thrive in cities, I couldn’t help but get excited to be part of it, too.

Example 10:

When I was seven, I wanted to be the GEICO gecko when I grew up. I eventually realized that wasn’t an option, but you can imagine my excitement when I came across your events manager position, which would have me working side by side with my favorite company mascot.

Example 11:

When I attended SXSW for the first time last month, I didn’t want to leave. So I decided I shouldn’t—and immediately went to check out job openings at the company.

Example 12:

If I could make the NYC apartment rental process better for just one person, I would feel like the horrors of my recent search would all be worth it. So a customer service role at [Apartment Search Company], where I could do it every day? I can’t think of anything more fulfilling.

Example 13:

[Vacation Rental Company] is synonymous with luxury and escape, known for spaces that inspire. I’ve felt this firsthand every time I’ve stayed at one of your properties—whether I was throwing a bachelorette party or working from home in a new locale—and I would love the chance to contribute to this reputation as your destination manager.

Example 14:

I was an hour out from hosting my first big dinner party when I realized I had forgotten to pick up the white wine. In a panic, I started Googling delivery services, and that’s when I first stumbled across [Delivery Service Company]. I’ve been hooked ever since, so I couldn’t help but get excited by the idea of bringing this amazingness to nervous hosts like me as your next social media and community manager.

Example 15:

Though I’m happily employed as a marketing manager, seeing the job description for your company’s PR director position stopped me in my tracks. I’ve been wearing your glasses for many years, and have always been impressed by the way the company treats its customers, employees, and the community at large.

Example 16:

A group of us IT folks were sitting around talking about our favorite Pacific Northwest companies this morning (coincidentally, over coffee). As you might figure, Starbucks was among the first names that came up. What makes you such a standout among Seattle-based corporations? Here’s the list we compiled:

Start with accomplishments

For any given job, you’re going to be competing with a lot of other job seekers—presumably, a lot of other similarly qualified people. A great way to stand out in your cover letter is to highlight something about yourself—a character trait, an accomplishment, a really impressive skill—that’ll quickly show how you stand out.

Example 17:

My last boss once told me that my phone manner could probably defuse an international hostage situation. I’ve always had a knack for communicating with people—the easygoing and the difficult alike—and I’d love to bring that skill to your open office manager position.

Example 18:

Among my colleagues, I’m known as the one who can pick up the pieces, no matter what amount of you-know-what hits the fan. Which is why I think there’s no one better to fill this customer service leader position.

Example 19:

Last December, I ousted our company’s top salesperson from his spot—and he hasn’t seen it since. Which means, I’m ready for my next big challenge, and the sales manager role at your company is exactly what I’m looking for.

Example 20:

After spending three years managing the internal communications for a 2,000-person company, I could plan a quarterly town hall or draft an interoffice memo in my sleep. What do I want to do next? Put that experience to work as a consultant for executives looking to level up their communications strategy.

Example 21:

While you won’t find the title “community manager” listed on my resume, I’ve actually been bringing people together online and off for three years while running my own blog and series of meetups.

Example 22:

If you’re looking for someone who can follow orders and doesn’t like to rock the boat, I’m probably not the right candidate. But if you need someone who can dig into data, see what’s working (and what’s not), and challenge the status quo, let’s talk.

Example 23:

I recently relocated my family to Texas. As we neared our new home, I noticed with intrigue the many wind turbines dotting the landscape. Suddenly, it hit me: “This is the career for me.” After unloading the moving van, I promptly researched companies in this sector that may benefit most from a skilled field engineer with expert electromechanical skills. And I discovered that [Company] is where I want to be.

Example 24:

You might be wondering what a 15-year veteran of the accounting world is doing applying to an operations role at a food startup. While I agree the shift is a little strange, I know you’re looking for someone who’s equal parts foodie and financial expert, and I think that means I’m your person.

Example 25:

Over the last 10 years, I’ve built my career on one simple principle: Work smarter. I’m the person who looks for inefficient procedures, finds ways to streamline them, and consistently strives to boost the productivity of everyone around me. It’s what’s earned me three promotions in the supply chain department at my current company, and it’s what I know I can do as the new operations analyst for [Company].

Start with humor and creativity

OK, before you read any of these, we have to stamp them with a big, blaring disclaimer: Do your homework before trying anything like this—learn everything you can about the company and the hiring manager to gauge whether or not they’d appreciate some comedic relief or a bit of snark. If it seems like they would, it’s a great way to make them smile (then call you). If they don’t? Try a different approach.

Example 26:

Have you ever had your mom call five times a day asking for a status update on how your job search is going, and then sound incredulous that you haven’t made more progress since the last phone call? That’s my life right now. But I’m hoping that soon my life will revolve around being your full-time social media manager. The good news is, I bring more to the table than just an overbearing mom. Let me tell you more.

Example 27:

Thank you so much for offering me the marketing manager position at [Company]! I wholeheartedly accept. OK, I know we’re not quite there yet. But if we were, here are just a few ideas for what I would do once in the role.

Example 28:

I considered submitting my latest credit card statement as proof of just how much I love online shopping, but I thought a safer approach might be writing this cover letter and describing all the reasons I’m the one who can take [E-Commerce Company]’s business to the next level.

Example 29:

I never thought that accidentally dropping my iPhone out of a second story window would change my life (it’s a funny story—ask me about it). But thanks to my misfortune, I discovered [Phone Repair Company]—and found my dream job as an expansion associate.

Example 30:

If we were playing “Two Truths and a Lie,” I’d say: I’ve exceeded my sales quotas by at least 20% every quarter this year, I once won an international pie-eating contest, and I have an amazing job at [Company]. The last, of course, is the lie. For now.

Frequently asked questions

How do you start off a cover letter.

When unsure how to open a cover letter, a good rule of thumb is to steer clear of clichés or overused opening lines. Instead, start by highlighting a passion or accomplishment relevant to the company or role you're applying for. You could also mention something about the company that caught your attention. Get creative, but keep it professional and make sure your narrative makes sense in that context.

How to start a cover letter greeting?

Try to find the hiring manager's name on LinkedIn or the company's website and address them directly, like “Dear Jane Doe”. If you can't find their name, “Dear Hiring Manager” is a good alternative. Avoid using “To Whom It May Concern” as it sounds outdated and impersonal.

How do I introduce myself in a cover letter?

Introducing yourself in a cover letter is straightforward: just share a bit about yourself. For example, “I'm a copywriter with seven years of experience in online content writing. At least officially. Since my first year of college I've been working on personal projects and keeping a track record of my accomplishments throughout the years.” No need to repeat your name since it's already in your contact information at the beginning of the letter.

How to start a cover letter without a name?

If you don't know the name of the person receiving your cover letter, start with “Dear Hiring Manager” or similar. Other possibilities include: “Dear Hiring Team”, “To the Hiring Team”, “To the Hiring Team”, “Dear Recruiter/Recruiting Team”, or “Dear Hiring Committee” if your industry evaluates cover letters and applications through a board.

Jenny Foss , Erica Breuer , Regina Borsellino , Amanda Cardoso also contributed writing, reporting, and/or advice to this article.