If you’re seeking a teaching position or helping a colleague or student with their job search, crafting a reference letter is a crucial step. A well-written reference letter can be a game-changer, helping candidates stand out from the competition and win their dream teaching positions.
Tips for Writing a Reference Letter for a Teaching Position
Before diving into the examples, here are some tips to keep in mind when writing a reference letter:
- Highlight specific skills, experiences, and achievements that make the candidate stand out as a teacher.
- Use specific examples to illustrate the candidate’s strengths, such as student feedback, successful lesson plans, or innovative teaching methods.
- Address the candidate’s character, work ethic, and professionalism, as well as their teaching abilities.
- Be detailed and specific, but also concise and easy to read.
- Give your letter a strong opening and closing, using a professional tone throughout.
7 Examples of Reference Letters for Teaching Positions
Letter of Recommendation for Experienced High School Teacher
Dear Hiring Committee,
I am writing to highly recommend [Teacher Name] for your open high school teaching position. As a colleague of [Teacher Name] for the past five years, I have had the pleasure of witnessing firsthand [Teacher Name]’s incredible talent for inspiring and engaging students in their learning.
[Letter Body paragraph 1]
[Letter Body paragraph 2]
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter of Recommendation for Elementary School Teacher Intern
Dear Principal [Last Name],
I am writing to highly recommend [Teacher Name] for your elementary school teaching position. As [Teacher Name]’s supervisor during their internship in our school district, I have been consistently impressed by [Teacher Name]’s dedication to students, creativity, and willingness to learn and grow as an educator.
[Letter Body paragraph 1]
[Letter Body paragraph 2]
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Letter of Recommendation for Substitute Teacher
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [Teacher Name] for your open substitute teaching position. As a fellow teacher in the [School District Name] for the past decade, I can attest to [Teacher Name]’s outstanding ability to connect with and engage students of all ages and abilities.
[Letter Body paragraph 1]
[Letter Body paragraph 2]
Best wishes,
[Your Name]
Letter of Recommendation for Special Education Teacher
Dear Search Committee,
I am writing to highly recommend [Teacher Name] for your open special education teaching position. As a parent of a child who has thrived under [Teacher Name]’s compassionate and skilled guidance, I can personally attest to the positive impact [Teacher Name] has on students’ lives.
[Letter Body paragraph 1]
[Letter Body paragraph 2]
Respectfully,
[Your Name]
Letter of Recommendation for Online Teacher
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to highly recommend [Teacher Name] for your open online teaching position. [Teacher Name]’s innovative and engaging use of technology in the classroom has impressed me for years, and I have no doubt that [Teacher Name] will excel in a virtual teaching environment.
[Letter Body paragraph 1]
[Letter Body paragraph 2]
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Letter of Recommendation for Physical Education Teacher
Dear Hiring Committee,
I am writing to highly recommend [Teacher Name] for your open physical education teaching position. [Teacher Name]’s passion for fitness and health, combined with a gift for inspiring students of all ages to move and make healthy choices, make [Teacher Name] an ideal candidate for this role.
[Letter Body paragraph 1]
[Letter Body paragraph 2]
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter of Recommendation for College Professor
Dear Dean [Last Name],
I am writing to highly recommend [Teacher Name] for your open college teaching position. As one of [Teacher Name]’s former students, I can attest to [Teacher Name]’s mastery of the subject material, engaging teaching style, and unwavering commitment to student success.
[Letter Body paragraph 1]
[Letter Body paragraph 2]
Warmly,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a reference letter for a teaching position?
When writing a reference letter for a teaching position, be sure to highlight the candidate’s specific skills, experiences, and achievements that make them an excellent teacher. Use specific examples to illustrate the candidate’s strengths, and address their character, work ethic, and professionalism in addition to their teaching abilities. Be detailed and specific, but also concise and easy to read.
How long should a reference letter for a teaching position be?
A reference letter for a teaching position should be no longer than one page. Be sure to include all relevant information about the candidate’s strengths and suitability for the position, but keep the letter concise and easy to read.
What is the best way to format a reference letter for a teaching position?
Start with a strong opening that introduces the candidate and your relationship to them. In the body of the letter, use specific examples to illustrate the candidate’s strengths and address their character and professionalism as well as their teaching abilities. Close with a strong statement of recommendation and your contact information. Be sure to use a professional tone throughout, and keep the letter to one page.
Can I use a template for a reference letter for a teaching position?
Yes, there are many templates available online for reference letters for teaching positions. However, it is important to tailor the letter to the individual candidate and their strengths and experiences, rather than using a generic template.
What if I don’t have direct teaching experience with the candidate?
If you don’t have direct teaching experience with the candidate, focus on their strengths as a student or in other professional contexts. For example, you might highlight their communication skills, work ethic, or leadership abilities.
Should I send the reference letter directly to the hiring committee or give it to the candidate to submit?
Check with the candidate or the hiring committee for their preferred method of submission. In some cases, the hiring committee may ask for the reference letter to be submitted directly from the reference. In other cases, the candidate may prefer to submit the letter as part of their application packet.
Conclusion
Writing a reference letter for a teaching position can be a challenge, but with the right approach and attention to detail, you can help your colleague or student stand out from the competition and land their dream job. Keep these tips in mind as you craft your letter, and don’t be afraid to ask for feedback or revise your letter for maximum impact.