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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

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.

21 Teacher Resume Examples To Help You Score the Interview

Make a great first impression! Continue Reading

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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.

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!

Teacher Cover Letter Examples + Expert Tips

• 30% higher chance of getting a job
• 42% higher response rate from recruiters

Our customers have been hired at: * Foot Note

Teachers play a vital role in educating and shaping future generations. They work in a variety of settings, including public and private schools, colleges and universities and community organizations. Teachers have strong communication skills, patience and a passion for education. While the job can be challenging, teaching can be a rewarding career that makes a difference in the lives of students and communities.

When paired with a well-written resume , a strong teacher cover letter can help you highlight your exemplary behavioral management and interpersonal skills . With our example teacher cover letters and comprehensive guide to writing a cover letter , we’ll help you land an interview and secure your next role. 

More Cover letter examples for the next step in your teaching career

• Adjunct Professor Cover Letter
• Assistant Teacher Cover Letter
• Elementary Teacher Cover Letter
• Graduate Assistant Cover Letter
• Instructor Cover Letter
• Kindergarten Teacher Cover Letter
• Master Teacher Cover Letter
• Preschool Teacher Cover Letter
• Student Assistant Cover Letter
• Student Teacher Cover Letter
• Summer Teacher Cover Letter
• Teaching Assistant Cover Letter
• Tutor Cover Letter
• Teacher’s Aide Cover Letter

Teacher cover letter (text version)

Jennie Williams

Newark, NJ 07101

(555) 555-555

[email protected]

Jan. 02, 2024

Caroline  Vance,

Newark Public Schools

Newark, NJ 07102

Phone: (555) 555-5555

E-Mail: [email protected]

Dear Caroline Vance,

Upon learning about the teacher posting with Newark Public Schools, I was eager to contact you with my interest. When reviewing the job description, I was excited to see how well my experience aligns with your school’s needs and position requirements. From reading your website, I feel your core mission and culture suit what I offer as a professional.

As an adept elementary teacher, I have a well-rounded skill set in group and individual instruction and honed talents in lesson planning and classroom management, making me an ideal fit for the teacher position. Further, I am a recognized expert in communication and team collaboration. 

In my previous role, I had the opportunity to develop and execute an innovative project-based learning curriculum that received recognition at a regional education conference, showcasing student work and achievements. This initiative not only boosted student creativity but also contributed to a 25% increase in positive feedback from parents.

During my tenure, I served as the coordinator for the Elementary English Olympiad, guiding students to multiple victories at the district level. Also, I collaborated in a successful after-school tutoring program targeting 100 struggling students, leading to a 30% improvement in their academic performance. This program received a commendation from the school administration for its positive impact on student achievement.

I am excited at the prospect of bringing my talents to Newark Public Schools. I look forward to hearing from you, at your earliest convenience, to discuss how my experience and qualifications will prove valuable in the teacher role.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

How to format a teacher cover letter

A cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself to the hiring manager. It allows you to expand on your resume skills , connect with the hiring manager and show them why you’re the one for the job. Your cover letter should highlight your patience, resourcefulness and passion for education. 

Teachers use their knowledge and creativity to design lesson plans, engage students and assess learning outcomes. An effective teacher cover letter will include measurable achievements that exemplify how you’ve effectively communicated with students, parents, teachers and school administrators in your prior roles. 

That’s a lot for one page, but we’re here to help! It all starts with using the correct cover letter format . Start by editing these cover letter examples for teachers or explore our collection of 200+ cover letter examples to find the best match for you. 

Use the business format for your teacher cover letter

A cover letter is a business letter, so use the standard business letter format. Take a look at our example cover letters for teachers to get started. 

Use 1-inch margins on all sides, single space and left alignment on your one-page document. The length of your cover letter should not exceed one page. 

As our example cover letters for teaching positions show, your cover letter must also include:

• A header with your name, city, state, ZIP code and telephone number. 
• A greeting like “Dear Alice Walters” or “Dear Hiring Manager.” 
• A simple closing, like “Best regards” or “Respectfully.” 

Using a cover letter template is the best way to ensure your cover letter is formatted correctly and can pass most application tracking systems (ATS) . 

Plug it into our Cover Letter Builder and we’ll do the work for you. We’ll offer ready-made content ideas for your cover letter that target essential skills such as organization, classroom management and curriculum planning. In minutes, you’ll have a professional cover letter for a teaching job to pair with your resume. 

How to write a teacher cover letter

Start with a compelling introduction.

Hiring managers spend only seconds scanning job applications, so you must immediately hook them with your teacher cover letter. Think of your cover letter introduction like an elevator pitch and be clear, concise and direct.

Begin by explaining why you’re writing and which position you’re applying for. Express your interest in the position and why you are excited about the opportunity to work at the school or organization. 

This can be a great place to showcase your passion for teaching and your commitment to student success. Highlight your relevant qualifications and experience that make you a strong candidate for the position.

This may include your education, certifications, teaching experience and any other relevant skills or achievements that you want to mention right away. 

Use accomplishments to explain why you’re a great fit for the role

The body of your teacher cover letter should paint an in-depth picture of your career while providing insight into your interests and values. In one or two paragraphs, show the potential employer what you can do. 

Use action verbs to describe your unique accomplishments and keywords from the job description to explain your hard skills and soft skills . Highlight the skills and qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the position, such as experience with curriculum development, classroom management or technology integration. 

Explain your teaching philosophy and how it aligns with the mission and values of the school or organization. Provide details about your teaching experience, including the grades and subjects you have taught, any special projects or initiatives you have led, and any successes or challenges you have faced. 

Close with an invitation

Just like our cover letter examples for teaching jobs, use the final paragraph to thank the hiring manager for their time and reiterate your interest in the job. Close by inviting them to contact you to learn more about your teaching qualifications. 

Pair your teacher cover letter with a matching resume

Teacher cover letter faq, how do you write a cover letter for a teacher position.

To make a good cover letter, use a standard business letter format, include your contact details and the potential employers’ contact information, address the hiring manager if possible and explain how your job qualifications match the job.  

A cover letter for a teacher position should highlight relevant skills such as lesson planning and classroom management. Here are some things hiring managers or principals may be looking for in a teacher candidate:

• Patience: In order to find success in education, aspiring teachers must be patient with young learners.
• Resourcefulness: With reduced budgets and more teacher requirements, educators must show resourcefulness in their personality.
• Strong ability to communicate: Teachers must demonstrate strong communication skills when writing or speaking.
• Professional attitude: To show how serious a candidate is, he or she must maintain a professional attitude at all times.

Do I need a teacher cover letter?

Yes. A cover letter is an essential piece of a job application. While a resume provides a snapshot of your professional career, a cover letter fills in the blanks. Cover letters tell hiring managers who you are and why you want the job. 

Additionally, cover letters provide the opportunity to explain career gaps, recent moves to another geographic location or a career move. You can use an AI cover letter generator like My Perfect Resume to create a polished and compelling teacher cover letter in a matter of minutes. 

Remember to tailor your cover letter to the specific position and school you’re applying to. Use specific examples and language that demonstrate your fit for the job, and avoid generic or overly formal language. 

Get prepared for the next steps by reviewing what to expect during an interview and practicing common behavioral interview questions . 

How long should a cover letter be?

Your cover letter for a teacher job should be half a page to one page long. Aim for about 250-500 words.

Remember to emphasize your student-centered approach to teaching and discuss how you create a positive and inclusive learning environment for all students. 

Learn exactly how long your cover letter should be to make a memorable impression on potential employers with our expert guide.

Who do you address a teaching cover letter to?

Ideally, you should address a teaching cover letter to the hiring manager or the person responsible for reviewing applications. This information is typically included in the job posting or can be found on the school or organization’s website. 

If the job posting does not include the name of the hiring manager or recruiter, you can address the letter to the school principal, department head or the hiring committee. Avoid using general salutations such as “To Whom It May Concern” as they can come across as impersonal. 

If you’re unable to find the name of the hiring manager, you can address the letter to the school or organization itself. For example, “Dear [School Name] Hiring Team” or “Dear [School Name] Human Resources Department.” 

Remember to use a professional tone throughout your cover letter, regardless of who you are addressing.

Do’s and don’ts for building a teacher cover letter

• Address the recruiter or hiring manager directly.
• Explain what attracted you to the school in one or two sentences. For instance, the school’s commitment to inclusion and diversity. 
• Customize your teacher cover letter for the job. 
• Include keywords from the job description throughout. For example, “curriculum development” and “technology integration.” 
• End with a clear call to action. 
• Proofread your cover letter more than once. 
• Write a generic teacher cover letter. Instead, include specific examples of your lesson planning and instructing skills. 
• Write more than one page. 
• Use generic salutations, like “To Whom It May Concern.”
• Regurgitate your resume. Expand on your resume with detailed accounts of how you create a positive and inclusive learning environment.  
• Rely on automatic grammar or spell-checkers. 
• Write a fan letter, even if it is your dream job. 

Resume examples for the next step in your teaching career

• Assistant Teacher Resume
• Master French Teacher Resume
• Teacher Resume
• Summer Teacher Resume
• Adjunct Professor Resume
• Homeschool Teacher Resume
• Early Childhood Teacher Resume
• Preschool Teacher Resume
• High School Social Studies Teacher Resume
• Retired Teacher Resume
• Piano Teacher Resume
• Early Childhood Assistant Resume
• Foreign Language Teacher Resume
• Spanish Teacher Resume
• Language Professor Resume
• Nurse Educator Resume
• Public Health Advisor Resume
• English Teacher Resume
• ESL Teacher Resume
• Tutor Resume
• High School Teacher Resume
• Middle School Teacher Resume
• Elementary Teacher Resume

CV examples for the next step in your teaching career

• Adjunct Professor CV
• Arabic Teacher CV
• Assistant Professor CV
• Beginning Teacher CV
• Chinese Teacher CV
• Driving Instructor CV
• English Teacher CV
• Entrepreneur CV
• French Teacher CV
• Fresher Teacher CV
• Graduate Assistant CV
• Fourth Grade Teacher CV
• Nurse Educator CV
• Physics Professor CV
• High School Teacher CV
• Teaching Assistant CV
• SAT Tutor CV
• University Professor CV

How we reviewed this article

Since 2013, we have helped more than 15 million job seekers. We want to make your career journey accessible and manageable through our services and Career Center’s how-to guides and tips. In our commitment to bring you a transparent process, we present our Editorial Process .

• Indeed. Article. Redfield, Melissa. What’s the Job Outlook for Teachers in 2023  
• Point Loma Nazarene University. Article. What’s the Job Market Like for Teachers Today?
• Teachers of Tomorrow. Article. 10+ Teacher Skills You Need on Your Resume in 2023

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Elizabeth Muenzen, CPRW

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Elizabeth is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and a member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches. She is passionate about delivering information that empowers job seekers to achieve their professional goals.

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New Teacher Cover Letter: First-Year Teacher Sample & Guide

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your cover letter.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous cover letter was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

New Teacher Cover Letter Example

How to write a cover letter for a new teacher, 1. apply the rules of a new teacher’s cover letter formatting, 2. introduce yourself and bring up the job you’re aiming for, 3. put light on your relevant accomplishments, 4. show a reason behind your candidature, 5. end with a clearly-expressed hope and a proper sign-off, about resumelab’s editorial process, was it interesting here are similar articles.

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Entry-Level Cover Letter Examples, Tips & Writing Guide

What Is a Cover Letter & How to Make It Stand Out [10+ Tips]

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• Cover Letter Examples

New Teacher Cover Letter: Examples for First Year Teachers

Our customers have been hired by:

Your new teacher cover letter has to show the principal you can wrangle that unruly mob of kids. It has to prove you can create lesson plans and inspire young minds. And maybe most importantly, it has to do it fast. How can a first-year teacher cover letter do all that in 3 paragraphs?

With a letter that shines like a brightly-polished apple.

Below, you’ll see a sample cover letter for new teachers that gets jobs, with simple steps to adapt it to your story.

Want to write your cover letter fast? Use our cover letter builder. Choose from  20+ professional cover letter templates  that match your resume. See actionable examples and get expert tips along the way.

Create your cover letter now

Sample cover letter for a resume— See more cover letter samples and create your cover letter here .

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This article has been reviewed by our editorial team to make sure it follows Zety's editorial guidelines . We’re committed to sharing our expertise and giving you trustworthy career advice tailored to your needs. High-quality content is what brings over 40 million readers to our site every year. But we don't stop there. Our team conducts original research to understand the job market better, and we pride ourselves on being quoted by top universities and prime media outlets from around the world.

• https://www.bls.gov/OOH/education-training-and-library/high-school-teachers.htm

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How to Format a Cover Letter: Examples for 2024

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What Does the Best Cover Letter Look Like in 2024

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To Whom It May Concern: How to Use it & Best Alternatives

One size fits all rarely fits anyone. Learn when it’s ok to use “To Whom It May Concern” in a cover letter and when you need to tailor your greeting.

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How to Write a Teacher Cover Letter [with Template]

5 Resume Cover Letters for Teachers 

Start with structure: how to format your teacher cover letter, what else to include in your teacher cover letter, teacher cover letter faqs.

If you’re researching teacher cover letter tips and best practices, chances are you are either in the market for a new job or at least beginning to think ahead to your next opportunity.

As you’re well aware, your cover letter is a vitally important messaging document that must be thoughtfully crafted to A) catch the eye of potential employers/recruiters and B) entice them to learn more about you by reviewing your resume.

Well, you’ve come to the right place because — when it comes to teacher resume and cover letter advice — we’ve got you covered.

Designed to apply to both new and seasoned educators alike, this post serves as a guide to writing an effective teacher cover letter that will help you land your next job.

We’ll share key tips and best practices, along with several teacher cover letter examples that you can use for inspiration — plus, a downloadable template you can use to write an A+ cover letter!

Put Your Best Foot Forward

Download our template to start writing your best cover letter yet. 

LOOKING FOR TEACHING JOBS?

Before we get into any how-tos, it helps to know what the end result should look like. Below are five examples of winning teacher cover letters. 

1. This example offers guidance for the first-time teacher, since it can be difficult to write a cover letter without much experience to describe! This letter emphasizes volunteer work, student teaching and college experience. 

2. Here, the applicant listed out some of her experiences into bullet points. This is a wise formatting trick, since it’s likely the hiring manager looks at multiple cover letters a day, so the bulleted list makes it easier — and faster — to read.

3. Though it may not apply to every teaching position, some hiring managers like to see applicants back up their claims with hard data. This history teacher offers quantifiable proof of her abilities in her previous position.

4. What it lacks in volume it makes up for in succinct, to-the-point text. This cover letter says just enough while leaving the reader wanting to know more. Be careful with creating generic cover letter “templates” for yourself though — the content of this letter could apply to a wide range of roles and schools, so you’ll want to customize the details to each new position.

5. For a clearer breakdown of the essential parts of a cover letter, this example from Liveabout.com highlights where the applicant mentions her skill set, her unique value proposition and her desire for the position.

A teacher cover letter is much the same as a cover letter for any other position — the structure is fairly standard, with the content customized to the role and your experience. A cover letter should be one page, no more than four paragraphs, easily scannable and include the best way to reach you. The reader should not have to look very hard to find everything they need to know about you. 

The best teacher cover letters have the following components: 

• Your contact information: Provide your name, email address, phone number and where you live (just city and state is fine).
• The school’s contact information: Though you may not be sending your cover letter and resume by mail, this confirms your intention to apply to a specific school. 
• Date: The date you’re submitting your application materials.
• Salutation: A professional greeting that addresses the hiring manager by name. It’s customary to preface their name with “Dear.”
• Introduction: This is a one-or two-sentence statement that introduces you and expresses your intention to apply for the open position.
• Body paragraph 1: A brief paragraph describing your relevant professional experience, achievements, skills and education. 
• Body paragraph 2: A brief paragraph explaining your interest in and fitness for the role for which you’re applying.
• Closing paragraph: Once more, a brief closing statement that expresses your desire for further conversation and invites the hiring manager to contact you with any questions.
• Your signature: You may simply write your name or, for a more personal touch, you can add a real signature — hand-written or digitally placed. 

Why all the brevity? Hiring managers likely sift through dozens of applications a day, especially at competitive schools. You want your materials to stand out for their scannability, so that the reader can see whether you would be the right fit within just a few seconds. 

If you include all of the components above, you will have an excellent chance of capturing any hiring manager’s attention and (hopefully) starting a conversation with them. 

While most cover letters follow a similar format, with the introduction, body content and conclusion all containing relatively the same kind of information, the body paragraphs are where you can really highlight your uniqueness. The portion of your cover letter where you describe your skills and experience is your oyster — without repeating what’s on your resume, consider including any of the following elements:  

• Include teaching specialties such as subject expertise , special education curriculum design and even extracurricular responsibilities. 
• When it comes to your education, you’ll want to note whether you have your master’s degree in education . Having an MEd does not necessarily equate to teaching experience, but many schools will prioritize candidates with graduate degrees over those with only bachelor’s degrees . 
• Mention soft skills as well as hard teaching skills, such as organization, patience, adaptability, etc.
• Mention any relevant training or certifications. If you can point to a certificate in a specific teaching method or school leadership training , you may be considered for other open positions.
• Educational equity and inclusion is critical to school and student success. Even if you don’t have experience teaching units on disability activism or racial justice , expressing a commitment to learning about and teaching students of different backgrounds is a highly valued quality.
• Include related work you’ve done outside the classroom , such as tutoring, non-teaching work or volunteer experience that involves working with children.
• However, please note that teachers cannot freely share specific class or student data. It is your responsibility to adhere to school, state and federal restrictions concerning student privacy .
• Teachers are never done learning. Expressing a commitment to ongoing education and professional development in your cover letter will communicate that you are passionate about developing your craft. 

Each item should only take one to two sentences to explain. For scannability, you may want to format your skills and experience into bullet points.

Some teaching applicants include a postscript in their cover letters following their signature. While this is not necessary, it is a fine place to put something that doesn’t fit naturally into the body of your cover letter. However, only include a postscript if absolutely necessary ( “By the way, I remember competing against Sacred Heart’s epic debate club back in 1998 — if I couldn’t beat them then, joining them now would be the next best thing!” ). 

Your postscript should add value or personality, or be something the hiring manager absolutely needs to know, otherwise it can look extraneous and unprofessional. 

Tips to Make Your Cover Letter Stand Out

Think of your teaching cover letter like an elevator pitch. Pretend you have 30 seconds to “sell” your skills and enthusiasm for the role — how do you “hook” the reader? 

Before you set pen to paper or fingers to keyboard, be sure to research the school you’re applying to. It’s generally good practice to customize your cover letter for every job application, and that means knowing something about the school, department or role you’d be filling. It’s quite easy to tell if an applicant is just copy-and-pasting the same cover letter for multiple job applications. 

For example, is the school known for its competitive mathematics team? Does it have an award-winning drama department? Are its standardized test scores consistently in your state’s 90th percentile? If the role you’re applying for relates in any way to the school’s differentiating factor, be sure to acknowledge it in your introduction. 

Here are some other ways to bump your application to the top of the pile. 

• Keep it brief: No one wants to read your master’s thesis in a cover letter. Leave the longer explanations of your experience and teaching philosophy for your interview. 
• Accentuate the positive: Your application materials should not only convey why you want the position, but how your unique abilities and assets could benefit the school and its students. Emphasize why you’d be a great match with specific reasons — but don’t brag.
• Keep it personal: There are plenty of great cover letter templates and examples out there, but they should only serve as suggestions for what yours will be. This is your story to tell, not anyone else’s. Expressing your passion for teaching will position you as a dedicated, valuable asset to any school.
• Proofread: As a teacher, this should be a no-brainer — but don’t be the one teacher who forgets to proofread! Take your time, re-read and ask a colleague to give your cover letter a once-over before submitting your application. Many people treat their cover letter as an afterthought, but remember that it’s the cover to the rest of your application. 

To use another teaching comparison, remember that your cover letter counts for a significant portion of your “grade.” As Christian Eilers writes for Zety , “That means treating it like a crucial final exam instead of an inconsequential pop quiz.”

How long should my teacher cover letter be?

As a general rule, keep your cover letter brief — no one wants to read your master’s thesis as part of your application. Your cover letter should have a short intro, an explanation of your experience and skills, any significant accomplishments, awards or certificates, and a short conclusion summarizing your interest in the position. Always end with an invitation for the hiring manager to contact you, and sign your name (a signed letter is always a nice touch, even if it’s a digital signature). Leave the longer explanations of your experience and teaching philosophy for your interview.

How can I add data to my cover letter?

If you’re making any claims about your effectiveness in the classroom, try back them up with numbers. For example, you may want to say that you were responsible for increasing biology testing scores by 30%, or that attendance improved by 65% while you were a teacher. If you’re currently a teacher considering other schools, be sure to keep track of your own class’s performance so you can cite these metrics in future cover letters. Please note, however, that it is your responsibility to adhere to school, state and federal restrictions concerning specific student data and student privacy .

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A GUIDE FOR WRITING YOUR NEXT TEACHING COVER LETTER

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3 Great Teacher Cover Letter Examples (+Teacher Cover Letter Writing Guide)

Posted by CV Nation on Mar 15, 2021

The complete guide to writing a job-winning cover letter for teachers, with three teacher cover letter samples, including a cover letter sample for teachers with no experience.

When pursuing teaching jobs, you’ll usually be required to submit a cover letter. Cover letters are just as important as CVs , possibly even more important, as they provide your first chance to stand out.

In order to make a positive impact and succeed with your applications, you'll need to equip yourself with an effective, professional cover letter that illustrates your value as a teacher.

In this guide, we cover all aspects of cover letter writing for teachers. This extends to:

- How to format and structure your teacher cover letter

- The most important skills for teachers and how to show them in your cover letter

- The most effective way of showcasing your achievements and experiences

- How to write a cover letter for teachers with no experience

- This guide also includes three teacher cover letter samples

Teacher Cover Letter Example

How to Structure Your Cover Letter

Following an established structure when preparing your cover letter will help ensure you’ve followed all the necessary steps and included all the relevant details.

Follow our six-step process to create an optimised teaching cover letter ticks all the boxes.

1. Introduction

Just as you would when meeting someone in person, you should introduce yourself at the beginning of your cover letter.

Explain who you are and why you are applying for the role.

2. Overview of knowledge and expertise

After introducing yourself, provide a concise overview of your knowledge and expertise. This brief paragraph lets the reader know that you’re a good fit for teaching jobs.

3. Key selling points

Ensure your cover letter draws attention to your key selling points.

For example, do you have a track record of generating high grades? Have you been presented with awards for teaching? These are key selling points that make you stand out.

4. Demonstrate research/match with values

Do your research and spend time to tailor your cover letter to the school or university that you’re applying to.

By conducting research, you will be able to show how you are well-matched with the school’s values and culture.

5. Key skills

Highlight a small number of your key skills that are relevant to teaching. Consider providing examples of times you have used the skills to achieve positive outcomes.

View our comprehensive guide to teacher skills and how to demonstrate them.

6. Ending and call to action

Bring your cover letter to a close by thanking the reader for their time and stating that you look forward to hearing from them.

Skills for Teacher Cover Letters

When preparing your cover letter, it’s important to ensure your key skills come across. Here we detail the five most important skills for teachers and how to show them on your cover letter.

Demonstrating these skills on your cover letter will give you a stronger chance of landing job interviews.

View 20 of the most common job interview questions for teachers .

What are the most important skills for teachers?

1. Communication

As teaching is basically about expressing ideas to students, communication is one of the most important skills for teachers.

Teachers communicate with groups of students on a daily basis, so it usually goes without saying that they’re good communicators.

However, a great way of reinforcing your communication skills on your cover letter is to ensure the letter conveys your message in a concise, professional manner. After all, your cover letter is a form of communication between yourself and the reader.

Take a look at the teacher cover letter samples in this guide. Note how they communicate with the reader clearly and professionally.

When preparing your own cover letter, ensure to use professional writing to demonstrate your communication skills.

2. Enthusiasm

Teachers who are enthusiastic often get better results in the classroom. This is largely because teaching with enthusiasm inspires students to embrace education.

So how do you show your enthusiasm on your cover letter?

To show your enthusiasm on your cover letter, simply ensure your passion for your profession comes across. Touch on what attracted you to the job, why you enjoy teaching and why you’re passionate about what you do.

3. Leadership

Teachers are leaders. They’re responsible for providing effective leadership to groups of students and fostering positive cultures in which they can flourish.

If you can demonstrate strong leadership qualities on your cover letter, you’ll enhance your chances of success with your applications.

How do you show leadership skills on your cover letter?

The ultimate goal of leaders is to generate results. So demonstrate the successes you achieved while leading in the classroom. Such achievements may range from improving students’ exam performance to reducing cases of absenteeism.

4. Organisation

In order to effectively manage classrooms and maintain teaching standards, teachers should have sound organisation skills.

How do you show your organisation skills on your cover letter?

Touch on your experiences completing tasks within timescales and managing multiple tasks simultaneously. You may want to provide examples of times you optimised efficiency via organisation.

Another way of drawing attention to your organisation skills is to highlight new systems you implemented to help you manage more effectively, such as new software systems.

5. Patience

All teachers understand the importance of patience in the classroom. Disruptive students and a lack of respect are the type of issues that may test the patience of teachers.

A simple way to illustrate your patience is to touch on your conflict management capabilities and your ability to maintain your composure under pressure.

How to Write a Cover Letter for Teachers with no Experience

If you’ve got no experience in teaching, focus on your education, training and transferable skills.

When touching on your education details, consider expanding to showcase your expertise and skills. For example, you may want to draw attention key projects or modules you undertook.

Furthermore, draw attention to any paid or non-paid work that is related to teaching, such as work as a nanny, librarian, tutor etc. Writing about such work will enable you to demonstrate key transferable skills.

Take a look at the teacher cover letter sample below to see how we presented the individual as an ideal candidate for the job, despite having no experience in teaching.

Teacher Cover Letter Example (No Experience)

Cover Letter Formatting and Design

When it comes to writing your cover letter, professionalism is key. A poorly formatted and designed cover letter often indicates unprofessional applicants. So follow our tips to ensure you come across as a professional candidate.

Adding spacing between paragraphs will make your cover letter easier to read and professional in appearance. Cover letters with no spacing tend to look like one huge block of text, which makes for a poor reading experience.

So it’s important to utilise your word processor’s spacing function to maintain the attention of the reader.

To add spacing to your document in Microsoft Word, highlight the text and click the ‘Layout’ tab. Then alter the ‘After’ tab to your chosen number of spacing (between 6 pt. and 8 pt. is our recommendation).

Fonts and fonts sizes

Use standard, professional fonts when writing your cover letter, such as Arial, Times New Roman and Calibri. Don't use overly creative fonts. These can be difficult to read and may look juvenile.

The optimum size for most fonts is between 10 and 11.5. Fonts that are too big often look unprofessional and fonts that are too small are usually difficult to read.

Proofreading

It goes without saying that you’re cover letter should be checked for spelling and grammatical errors. Writing errors may indicate an unprofessional character and can have a negative impact on your job applications.

Proofread your cover letter more than once or ask a friend to check it for you to make sure it is void of costly mistakes.

Further Cover Letter Advice for Teachers

Conduct research.

As we touched on in step four of the cover letter structure, it’s important to conduct research into the school/university you’re applying to.

This will enable you to tailor your cover letter to the job and show how you’re aligned with the employer’s values and culture.

By showing recruiters that you’ve done your research, you’ll also convince them that you’re genuinely interested in the position and not bulk applying for jobs.

Salutations and Conclusions

For applications in Britain, begin your cover letter with ‘Dear [Name]’ or 'Dear Recruitment Team' and bring your cover letter to a close with ‘Yours sincerely’. If you decide to begin your cover letter with ‘Dear Sir/Madam', bring the letter to a close with ‘Yours faithfully’.

Remember to only use ‘Yours sincerely’ if you have addressed the letter to a specific person or team.

In the United States, begin your cover letter with ‘Dear [Name]’ or ‘Dear Sir/Madam’. Bring the letter to a close with ‘Yours truly’ or ‘Yours faithfully’.

State that your CV is enclosed

If you’re submitting your cover letter along with your CV, state that your CV is enclosed. To do this, simply include ‘Enc.: CV’ at the end of your cover letter.

Here is an example:

Learn more about how to prepare a teacher CV .

Job application follow up

If you haven’t had a response to your application within two weeks, it’s a good idea to send a follow up email or letter.

The goal of application follow up letters is to give recruiters a gentle nudge and reiterate what makes you the ideal candidate for the job.

When preparing your job application follow up letter, try to avoid coming across as pushy, and keep it short and to-the-point.

We hope you’ve found this guide helpful in preparing an interview-generating cover letter for teaching jobs.

Ensure to accompany your cover letter with a powerful CV. Take a look at our comprehensive guide to preparing the perfect teacher CV , which includes three teacher CV examples.

More teacher resources:

- 3 Teacher CV Samples and Templates

- 10 Key Skills for Teachers

- 20 Teacher Job Interview Questions

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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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CV and cover letter examples for teachers

If you’re struggling to write a CV or cover letter for teaching roles, here are some examples to help you stand out, whether you’re a headteacher or NQT

• More CV and cover letter templates
• Looking for teaching jobs ? View vacancies across all teaching levels at Guardian Jobs

You’ve heard about the school that’s just right for you. What next? What can you do with your application that will make you a certainty for the short list?

If you need some inspiration on what to include in your teaching CV and cover letter, here are our helpful guides – just remember not to copy them as exact templates.

Cover letter example:

Dear Ms Name,

As a [newly-qualified/experienced] teacher with [number] years experience in a [primary/secondary] school setting, I feel I would be well-suited for the role of [job title] at [name of school]. Please find my CV attached.

The nature of my work in education has prepared me for this position. My interest in [...] stimulated me to lead a project on [...] My role here was to […]. As part of this, I had to liaise with [...] meaning that I have developed skills in [...]. I faced some challenges along the way, such as [...] and overcame them by [...]. The impact of the project overall was [...]. This was measured by/ has been evidenced in [...].

In addition, I have successfully employed a [...] approach/ strategy when teaching and found that this led to many positive student outcomes, such as […]. A key part of my career is helping students reach their potential, which I work towards by focusing on [...] when teaching.

As shown by my experience in schools, I am enthusiastic about education and always strive to do the best for my students. I am able to take on responsibility for learning and have experience of successfully managing a class. I also have the enthusiasm and determination to ensure that I make a success of this role.

Thank you for taking the time to consider this application and I look forward to hearing from you in future.

Yours sincerely,

CV template:

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CV and cover letter tips:

Always make sure that your CV is up to date, and relevant to the needs of the employer. In teaching, it’s not that you’re going to be one of many recruits shuffled around until you find your niche – you’re a one-off, in your own classroom, responsible for your own pupils from day one. Any CV or cover letter you send, whether speculative or for an advertised position, needs to be sympathetic to each different context.

Your cover letter, the person specification, and the job description are pieces of a complex jigsaw. Sometimes, these pieces need more context and that’s where your research comes in. Look up Ofsted reports, local news reports, school performance information. All these pieces combined make the picture on the box, and you need to take the whole thing into account. Employers know there might be no ideal match, but to get yourself on a shortlist, and be invited for interview, you need to present yourself as close a fit as you can.

If you’re an NQT or RQT (newly or recently qualified teacher), you might think that you don’t have the skills and experience to make strong applications – but this certainly isn’t the case. Schools always need new recruits, and it’s part of their role to develop you. Show them your potential by relating what you have learned from your experiences so far, where the challenges were and how you overcame them, how you’ve made a difference and what you feel you can offer on a personal as well as professional level.

More established colleagues will have more experiences to draw on, but be careful not to fall into the trap of talking about one year’s experience repeated fifteen times – you still need to show a sense of development and further potential. Having a few years’ teaching experience to call on can help your confidence levels, but remember that you’re expected to show that you had an impact, that your own initiatives or methods made changes happen and that those changes became embedded in practice. Explain a problem that you were aware of, how you intervened and what the situation is now like as a result. Be prepared to link this to the ultimate aim of improved pupil outcomes – it’s essentially how all teachers are judged.

The higher up the professional ladder you intend to go, the more guidance and feedback you need on the application you’re about to submit. Friends and contacts in similar positions to the one you’re applying for can offer insights that official descriptions can’t. Don’t stop there, though – talk to people in more senior positions. What would they be looking for if they were recruiting for a similar role? Ask for feedback on your letter, and from people who won’t just give you an easy time. Once you’ve got that feedback, trust it. Be prepared to start again, if necessary, so allow time within the process for this to happen. Dig deep into your motives, your letter needs to reflect the factors in education that really drive you. Think about what makes you smile at work and make sure you put that in.

Looking for a job? Browse Guardian Jobs for your next career step.

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9 Elementary Teacher Resume Examples Built for 2024

Elementary Teacher

Best for senior and mid-level candidates

There’s plenty of room in our elegant resume template to add your professional experience while impressing recruiters with a sleek design.

Resume Builder

Like this template? Customize this resume and make it your own with the help of our Al-powered suggestions, accent colors, and modern fonts.

• Elementary Teacher Resumes
• Elementary Teacher Resumes by Experience
• Elementary Teacher Resumes by Subject

We know that building your elementary teacher resume and writing a cover letter for a job can seem overwhelming, but we believe the most challenging part is getting started.

We’ve analyzed hundreds of elementary teacher resume samples from all stages and specialties within the education field, and we’ve come up with the best  resume tips  you can use to make your resume shine. We know what you need to include on your resume (and how to include it) so you can get more interviews in 2024!

Our resumes have   helped elementary teachers find jobs in 2024,  so take notes and get inspired for your own resume!

Elementary Teacher Resume

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• Get as specific as you can with details regarding what grade levels you’ve taught, classroom size, and any specific courses you have taught.
• The best details to include are those you find in the  teacher job description , so check your resume against their requirements to ensure you measure up.
• Highlight any programs or initiatives you implemented, and be sure to show the results of your efforts, such as increased student test scores and student engagement.
• Want to annoy the hiring manager? Let minor mistakes cloud your qualifications. Of course, you  don’t  want that to happen, so always  check your resume  for grammatical errors, typos, and other mistakes to ensure a high-quality submission!

Creative Elementary Teacher Resume

• Here, you begin with the most recent roles to former ones, especially for a sector like education where teaching and classroom management approaches can quickly evolve with time.

Elementary Student Teacher Resume

• Elijah’s piece perfectly executes this strategy. Breaking away from percentages, he also talks about increasing session participation by 26 students, a spike in after-school library usage by 81 hours per week, mentoring 29 struggling students, and more.

Assistant Elementary Teacher Resume

• Focus on any programs or initiatives you established, and always list the results of your efforts, like improving the classroom environment and increasing overall academic growth.
• If your achievements take more space than a single bullet point, save it for your  elementary teacher cover letter  instead.
• List multiple skills on your resume  to get the hiring manager’s and recruiter’s attention.

Entry-Level Elementary Teacher Resume

• Tutoring and training experience look especially great on an entry-level elementary teacher resume.
• If you have applicable awards or certifications, list those, too! 
• Be sure to indicate your career goals, too; this will appeal to hiring managers and recruiters since they want to know you’re in this for the long run.

Senior Elementary Teacher Resume

• Include experience demonstrating your assistance with lesson plans or teaching methodologies to catch a recruiter’s eye.
• Principals want to hire elementary teachers who are heavily involved and invested in their school, so you should be sure to include this experience on your resume.
• For example, did you start student clubs or coach sports teams?

ESL Teacher Resume

• This section briefly reviews your skills and how your accomplishments can serve your next school.
• Mention the specific school you’re applying to and skills that are especially relevant to your ESL teacher resume , such as classroom management or cultural awareness. 

Elementary Art Teacher Resume

• Include metrics on your elementary art teacher resume to show that you make a measurable impact on your young students.

Elementary Math Teacher Resume

• Recount creative ways you’ve leveraged tools like SMART Boards in your lessons to offer examples of your immersive teaching methods.

Related resume guides

• Substitute teacher
• Preschool teacher
• Teacher assistant

440 people currently building their resumes.

Teacher Cover Letter Examples

City, State, Zip Code

Home: 000-000-0000 | Cell: 000-000-0000

[email protected]

Iris Del Gato Company Name

City, State 000-000-0000 [email protected]

RE: “Grammar School Teacher for Hire” on Maria’s List

Dear Ms. Del Gato,

As an admirer of Company Name, I was really excited to see your posting for a 3rd grade teacher. Here’s why I’m an excellent match for the position.

In addition to having a Masters in Education and seven years of experience, I currently work as an enthusiastic 3rd grade teacher at the Red Barn School. In this role, I am responsible for 40 students in an inclusion classroom, which has allowed me to refine my skills in handling extreme behavioral issues while maintaining a focused class. I also prepare the children for challenging state tests and foster their leadership and problem-solving skills by having them collaborate in groups.

Additionally, my attached resume includes all of the other requirements given on your job listing. For this reason, I believe I would be a great addition to your organization.

I will make myself available to meet with you at your earliest convenience.

Madelynn Wilkinson

There are plenty of opportunities to land a position, but it won’t just be handed to you. Crafting a cover letter that catches the attention of hiring managers is paramount to getting the job, and LiveCareer is here to help you stand out from the competition.

View All Cover Letter Samples

Customize this Letter

When you are searching for jobs, your cover letter is one of the tools which can catch a hiring manager’s attention. Although writing cover letters may seem difficult to some jobseekers, there are practical strategies you can follow to gain success. See the tips below for a guide to common do’s and don’ts, and refer to the teacher cover letter example for an industry-specific guide.

• Do show that you have the experience the school is looking for. The phrases used in the job description can help you understand the school’s top priorities.
• Do not use a formal tone. Instead, let your enthusiasm for the position show in your wording and tone.
• Do ask a friend if your cover letter demonstrates that you are the best person for the position. This can help you understand when your cover letter is fit for a hiring manager’s eyes.
• Don’t tell hiring managers what you will gain from the position. Instead, explain the qualifications which will make you an excellent asset. See how our example goes into detail about his skills.

Teacher Advice

The cover letter examples below will help you create an effective cover letter for your education career. These professionally written samples are designed for teachers of all levels, from kindergarten through high school and beyond.

Cover Letter Tips for Teacher

Finding jobs as a Teacher will be easier if you apply your skills and look in the right places. Following these pointers can relieve stress and make it easier to find work.

Research your surroundings. Whether you are new to Education or have lived in the area for years, you should conduct some research to find who the biggest employers are. Doing so can help you find job leads that don’t show up in other places, and it can show you where the majority of local opportunities are.

Practice your interview skills. Once you have found a job lead that interests you and matches your skills, you have started the journey to landing a new job. If an interview seems intimidating, think about the kind of questions a potential employer would want to ask an interviewee and prepare some articulate answers that will demonstrate your knowledge.

Network with neighbors. Building relationships and pursuing connections can often provide unexpected job opportunities. Let your friends and family know what kind of position you are looking for, and ask them to pass any leads along.

Keep in contact with potential job leads. Once you have submitted a job application, it is up to management to decide whether or not you are a good candidate for the position. Reach out to the recruiter, hiring manager, or human resources department to remind them of your interest.

Be adaptable. Think of your abilities as the roots of all the things you can do. They are the beginning, not the end. Be open to jobs in other fields that can provide opportunities outside your field and expand your skillset.

Teacher Job Seeking Tips

Your cover letter is likely the first impression potential employers will have of you. You should make its contents relevant to the jobs as a Teacher and field you are pursuing, but regardless of specifics, there are a few general rules you should always follow.

Highlight your experience. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you want your skills to truly shine on paper. The only way to achieve this is to describe your prior experience in an engaging way. Use descriptive language to make your work experience sound enticing.

Be honest. It may be tempting to exaggerate your experience or embellish your skills, but this will disservice you in the long run. Instead of stretching the truth, be imaginative in your descriptions of prior work history.

Emphasize your versatility. Many people are faced with a shortage of jobs in their field, but if you are dealing with this, it does not mean you won’t find a great and fulfilling position. You should keep your options open and use your cover letter to highlight your versatility.

Keep it brief. Giving long-winded answers in an interview is never a good idea, and being excessively wordy on your cover letter isn’t either. While you may be verbose, limit your cover letter’s contents to the most essential information. You don’t want your qualifications to get lost in a sea of words.

Don’t go over a page. In some cases, you may have reason to include two pages on your cover letter, but in general, it is best to be concise and keep its contents to one page only.

Create a Cover Letter With LiveCareer

Cover Letter Examples Success Stories

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Teaching CTE Students About Work-Related Uses of AI

Teachers can show students responsible uses of AI for situations like preparing for interviews and writing résumés and cover letters.

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) can better position career and technical education (CTE) teachers to prepare their students for the future. From helping students hone interview skills and articulate their abilities on résumés to fine-tuning cover letter copy customized to a particular job description and enhancing professional and industry language, there are many ways to leverage AI tools to build students’ career readiness in the CTE classroom.

Before using AI with your CTE students, remind them that they should not add personal information into AI, including business names, their name, the name of your school, locations, phone numbers, or other personally identifiable information. Students and teachers should always consider that online tools collect information, and in order to keep student information private, refraining from inputting this information into AI platforms is paramount. 

It’s also good practice to require parent or guardian permission and notify parents or guardians of AI integration in the classroom. Teachers should share with parents and guardians projects their teens will work on and explain how (and why) they will use AI to complement their workflow. Transparency is key to a successful implementation.

Sharing with Students the Benefits of Using AI in CTE

Establish the “why” with your students by considering the role of artificial intelligence when preparing a job application.

Share that, when prompted well, artificial intelligence can review a job posting and extract the details that students might want to include in their résumé, cover letter, and/or interview. Students can paste their résumés into the AI platform (deleting any personal information) and ask the AI to act as the prospective employer. Then, the AI tool can suggest different additions or omissions based on the job posting or description. 

Students can also interact with AI as if it were an interviewer and prepare to answer questions on the spot. The AI can ask students questions and help them think of specific responses for those questions, unique to the student’s résumé. This will increase students’ confidence entering the interview process. 

Ethical Uses

Emphasize ethical use of AI. Students should not simply copy and paste the information from AI into their résumé or cover letter. It’s crucial to communicate that students can use AI to help build the items mentioned above, but it is not a replacement for original thinking and writing. 

Insist that students edit and add to the AI’s responses. Prompting AI to ask them questions, rather than provide answers, is another way to prevent students’ rote copy-and-pasting, positioning the technology as a guide or tutor. 

Avoid asking students to use AI to compose a full cover letter or résumé. Instead, use specific wording that prompts AI to develop questions that help students brainstorm and draft a cover letter or résumé. This step is meant to assist students in developing ideas and personalizing their tone. Students can even ask AI to help them “say this more clearly and concisely,” but they should edit the final copy to include their voice. 

Sample Prompt Exchanges

Notice how the following prompt asks AI to develop lists of questions to help students brainstorm: “I am a high school student in an HVACR class. I am preparing for an interview as a (job title) at a heating business. Ask me questions as if you were the interviewer.”

Once the platform generates questions, students can review them and gauge whether they feel fit to respond. When they find a question that is too difficult, they can use this prompt: “Can you develop questions to help me formulate a response to (copy and paste the question)?” The AI will share questions for the student to help them formulate a response. Students can also prompt the AI to develop a list of industry-specific terms to help them prepare responses. 

For cover letters, an AI-as-tutor prompt might look like this: “Can you develop questions to help me draft a cover letter based on this job description?” Students should input the job description for a position they’re interested in applying for. The AI will provide a series of questions to help the student develop a cover letter.

To further personalize a résumé to a specific job, students can prompt the AI to help them develop phrases for their résumé. Once students incorporate the phrases into their résumé, they can then put the text from their résumé back into the AI platform and ask it to provide feedback. 

Throughout these exercises, discuss with students the importance of editing AI output to ensure that it matches their voice, reiterating the importance of their original thought and personality. 

Enhancing Preparation

AI offers numerous possibilities for CTE students who, within just an hour, could use the technology to help them create a cover letter, build a résumé, and practice interviewing with an industry expert.

By practicing the above strategies while also honing critical thinking skills by checking for errors, adding industry terms and knowledge , and supplementing the text with their unique voice and tone, we can support students by building career readiness skills and preparing them to ethically use AI in their lives beyond school.