How to Write an Effective Teacher Cover Letter | Includes Sample and Template | Kathleen Jasper

Summary

In this video, Kathleen Jasper offers invaluable advice on crafting an effective cover letter for teaching positions, particularly for those without prior classroom experience. She emphasizes four key tips: tailor your cover letter to each job, be direct, keep it brief, and use job description keywords. Kathleen also demonstrates how to structure a clear, concise cover letter that aligns with the job requirements and showcases your readiness to learn and grow as an educator. By following these guidelines, applicants can create cover letters that stand out to school administrators and increase their chances of landing an interview.

Takeaways

• 😀 Be specific in your cover letter: Tailor each cover letter to the specific job and school you're applying to, ensuring it includes details from the job description.
• 😀 Be direct: Start your cover letter with a clear and straightforward statement of the position you're applying for, without unnecessary fluff.
• 😀 Keep it short and simple: Aim for a concise cover letter that can be read quickly, especially since hiring personnel often screen many applicants.
• 😀 Use keywords from the job description: Incorporate specific terms and phrases from the job posting to highlight your alignment with the role.
• 😀 Focus on what you’ve learned, not just what you’ve done: Even without teaching experience, emphasize the skills and knowledge you've gained through your training and coursework.
• 😀 Showcase your certifications: Mention any exams or certifications you've passed, and if you're working toward certification, clarify your expected timeline.
• 😀 Emphasize your willingness to learn: Convey your commitment to growing as an educator, showing that you're coachable and eager to improve.
• 😀 Use parallel structure: Ensure that your lists within the cover letter maintain a consistent grammatical structure for clarity and readability.
• 😀 Proofread for grammar: Make sure your cover letter is grammatically correct and free from errors, as this reflects your professionalism.
• 😀 Provide a strong closing: End with a confident statement about your potential as an asset to the school, reinforcing your enthusiasm and readiness to contribute.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Kathleen Jasper's video?

The main focus of the video is to teach how to write an effective cover letter, specifically for those seeking teaching positions, including individuals who have little to no teaching experience.

What are the four key tips Kathleen gives for writing a cover letter?

The four key tips are: 1) Make the cover letter specific to the job you're applying for. 2) Be direct and concise. 3) Keep it short and simple. 4) Use keywords and phrases from the job description in the cover letter.

Why is it important to make each cover letter specific to the job?

Making each cover letter specific to the job helps it stand out by demonstrating that the applicant has read and understood the job description, and is tailoring their application to meet the particular needs of that position.

What does Kathleen mean by 'be direct' in a cover letter?

Being direct means stating clearly and upfront what position you are applying for without unnecessary details or anecdotes. The cover letter should immediately convey the purpose and focus of the applicant’s application.

What is the importance of keeping a cover letter short and concise?

Keeping a cover letter short and concise is important because hiring personnel often go through many applications, and a lengthy cover letter can be overwhelming. A brief and clear letter is more likely to be read and appreciated.

How can using keywords from the job description help in writing a cover letter?

Using keywords from the job description in the cover letter aligns the applicant’s qualifications with the specific needs of the job, which makes the application more relevant and attractive to the employer.

How does Kathleen suggest applicants should start their cover letter?

Kathleen suggests starting the cover letter by directly stating the position you are applying for in the first sentence, making it clear to the reader what role you are seeking.

Why is it important to mention the progress of your certification in the cover letter?

Mentioning the progress of your certification assures the employer that you are working towards becoming fully certified and are likely to meet the qualifications needed for the role, which increases your chances of being considered.

What is the role of parallel structure in writing a cover letter?

Parallel structure ensures that the list of actions or skills in the cover letter is grammatically consistent, which makes the letter clearer and easier to read. This consistency also reflects professionalism and attention to detail.

How can an applicant show that they are willing to grow as an educator in a cover letter?

An applicant can show they are willing to grow by stating their commitment to learning and improving as an educator, acknowledging that they do not know everything but are dedicated to continuing their development.

What type of tone does Kathleen recommend for a cover letter?

Kathleen recommends a tone that is professional, confident, and eager to learn. It should balance showcasing your qualifications with humility, indicating that you are ready to contribute while continuing to grow in the role.

How should an applicant address the principal or assistant principal in a cover letter?

The applicant should address the principal or assistant principal by their title (e.g., Dr. Mendez) and directly state the position they are applying for. This helps the reader immediately understand the intent of the application.