cover letter for english teacher position

Effective English Teacher Cover Letter: Samples & Tips

Crafting an effective cover letter is a critical step in securing a position as an English teacher.

Whether you’re an experienced educator or a recent graduate, your cover letter serves as your first impression to potential employers.

It’s your opportunity to showcase your qualifications, passion for teaching, and unique strengths that make you an ideal fit for the role.

In this guide, we provide you with a comprehensive sample cover letter tailored for English teachers, along with practical writing tips to help you craft a compelling and professional letter.

By following this guide, you’ll gain valuable insights into structuring your cover letter effectively, choosing the right tone, and avoiding common pitfalls.

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English Teacher Cover Letter Sample 1

Jane Smith Austin, TX (000) 654-4532 [email protected]

May 27, 2024

Ms. Emily White, Principal ABC Public School 789 Learning Street Austin, TX

Subject: Application for English Teacher Role o ID# 1234ENG

Dear Ms. White,

I am writing to express my keen interest in the English Teacher position at ABC Public School. As an educator with a passion for the English language and a Master’s Degree in English Literature, I am eager to contribute to the academic and personal growth of students at your esteemed institution.

Over the course of my five-year teaching career at High Scope Educational Centre, my priority has been to foster a nurturing environment where students feel confident to explore language and literature. My innovative lesson planning and interactive teaching style have been instrumental in increasing student engagement and literacy proficiency, as evidenced by a 20% improvement in standardized test scores over three years.

What excites me most about the opportunity at ABC Public School is your commitment to excellence and the diverse student body. I am particularly impressed with your school’s emphasis on inclusive education, and I look forward to bringing my experience in differentiated instruction to accommodate all students’ learning styles and needs.

Additionally, I have successfully orchestrated several school-wide events such as Poetry and Author Visit Days, which have not only bolstered student interest in reading and writing but have also encouraged them to express their own voices creatively. My ability to integrate technology in the classroom, from blogging platforms to literary analysis software, has further enriched my students’ learning experiences.

My resume, which is enclosed, details my qualifications and accomplishments in more depth. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring my unique blend of skills and passion for English education to ABC Public School. I am confident that my proactive approach to classroom management and my dedication to fostering a love for learning make me a great fit for your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I eagerly anticipate the possibility of discussing how my background, enthusiasm, and vision for education would be an asset to ABC Public School. I look forward to the chance to meet with you and am available at your earliest convenience.

Best regards,

English Teacher Cover Letter Sample (No Experience)

Jane Doe 123 Elm Street Springfield, IL (555) 123-4567 [email protected]

Mr. John Smith Principal Springfield High School 456 School Lane Springfield, IL

Subject: Application for English Teacher Position

Dear Mr. Smith,

I am writing to express my enthusiasm for the English Teacher position at Springfield High School as advertised on your school’s website. As a recent graduate of XYZ University with a Bachelor’s Degree in English Education, I am eager to apply my academic knowledge and teaching skills to contribute to your team and the development of your students.

During my student teaching experience at Central Middle School, I had the opportunity to design and deliver engaging lesson plans, assist in the development of curriculum, and gain hands-on teaching experience. My passion for the English language, coupled with my commitment to fostering a positive learning environment, made a significant impact on the students’ enthusiasm for literature and writing.

Though my professional teaching experience is limited, my dedication to continuous learning and my proactive approach to personal development gives me confidence in my ability to excel in this role. I have completed various workshops on modern teaching methods and classroom management, and I am adept at integrating technology to enhance student engagement and learning.

I am particularly drawn to Springfield High School because of its reputation for inclusivity and academic excellence. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to a school that values diverse perspectives and encourages all students to reach their full potential. My goal is to create a classroom atmosphere where students feel inspired to explore the depths of literature and express their ideas creatively.

My enclosed resume provides further details about my educational background and qualifications. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my fresh perspective, enthusiasm, and dedication to English education can align with the goals of Springfield High School. I am available at your earliest convenience and can be reached at (555) 123-4567 or [email protected] .

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to contribute to your teaching team and support the academic journey of your students.

How to Write a Perfect Cover Letter for an English Teacher Position?

Writing a standout cover letter for an English teacher position requires more than showcasing your teaching experience and credentials; it’s about conveying a narrative of your educational philosophy, your passion for teaching, and how you align with the goals of the school or institution.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a compelling cover letter.

First Paragraph: Introduction

Start with a professional greeting. Research to find the name of the hiring manager or principal.
State the position you’re applying for and where you found the job listing.

Second Paragraph: Teaching Experience and Methodology

Discuss your teaching methods and how they can benefit the school’s curriculum and students.
Relate your experience to the school’s educational approach, integrating any knowledge you have of its programs.

Third Paragraph: Educational Background and Continuous Learning

Outline your relevant educational background, certifications, and ongoing professional development.
If applicable, mention any additional qualifications such as knowledge of educational technology, TESOL/TEFL certifications, or experience with special needs students.

Fourth Paragraph: Skills and Attributes

Identify the key skills the job ad prioritizes and demonstrate them with brief examples from your teaching career.
Show personal attributes that make you a good fit for teaching English, focusing on communication, innovation, or empathy.

Fifth Paragraph: Your Connection to the School

Express your admiration for the school and its mission. Mention specifics about the school’s culture or achievements that resonated with you.
Explain how you can contribute to the school community and enhance its academic and extracurricular programs.

Closing Paragraph: Call to Action and Sign-off

Sum up why you are a well-suited candidate and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
Invite the hiring manager to contact you for an interview, and let them know you’re looking forward to discussing how you can contribute to their school.
Sign off formally with “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your name.

Additional Tips

Keep the length to one page and use a professional tone throughout.
Tailor your cover letter to each specific job application.
Proofread carefully to ensure there are no grammatical or spelling errors.
Enhance readability by using bullet points for achievements if needed.

Your cover letter should not just repeat your résumé but complement it by telling a story about your passion for teaching and how you can make a difference at the school you’re applying to. With a well-crafted cover letter, you’ll take the first step toward securing your desired English teaching position.

Writing a compelling cover letter is essential for aspiring English teachers looking to secure their dream job. This comprehensive guide has walked you through each section of an effective cover letter, providing valuable insights, strategies, and tips to help you stand out from the competition.

Comments and Reviews from Real Readers

Reader reviews.

Alex Johnson ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This guide was a lifesaver! As a new graduate, I was struggling to write a decent cover letter for my first teaching job. The step-by-step instructions and sample letters were incredibly helpful. I got an interview within two weeks!”

Maria Gonzalez ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I really appreciate the detailed breakdown of each paragraph. It made the daunting task of writing a cover letter much more manageable. The samples provided were a great reference.”

David Lee ⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Totally recommend this guide to anyone applying for an English teacher position. The tips on integrating personal experience and methodology into your cover letter were spot on.”

Emma Watson ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This resource is fantastic! I’ve been teaching for a few years and wanted to apply for a position at a new school. This guide helped me refresh my cover letter and make it more engaging. I got an interview offer shortly after sending it out.”

Michael Brown ⭐⭐⭐⭐ “As an HR manager, I receive many cover letters. This guide aligns with what we look for in strong candidates. Makes it easier for applicants to stand out and demonstrate their suitability for the role.”

Sophia Martinez ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The additional tips at the end were very useful. They reminded me to tailor each cover letter to the specific job I’m applying for, which I think made a big difference.”

Ethan Wilson ⭐⭐⭐⭐ “While the guide is great for educators, I think it could be useful to include more examples for those with less traditional backgrounds in English teaching. Overall, a solid resource!”

Reader Comments

Jessica L. “Wow, this guide really covers all the bases! I feel more confident now. Thanks for sharing!”

Liam B. “Loved the sample letters. They provide a clear example of how to format and what content to include.”

Olivia N. “The step-by-step guide was exactly what I needed. My cover letter looks so much more professional now.”

Noah F. “I appreciate that this guide focuses on how to show passion and fit for the school. It’s not something I thought about before.”

Isabella R. “This guide is a must-read for any aspiring English teacher. It not only gives structure but also helps bring out your personal teaching philosophy.”

Your feedback is very valuable to us. If this article helped you craft your cover letter or if you have additional tips and experiences to share, please leave a comment below!

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Teacher Cover Letter Tips and 25 Real-Life Examples

Your guide to a killer cover letter that will get you that interview.

Whether you’re 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 could go unnoticed without a strong teacher cover letter. Take a look at our top tips for crafting a compelling letter, as well examples worth emulating.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself to the hiring manager for a job. Originally, these printed letters were included in the envelope with a resume and mailed to the company. The letter served the purpose of stating what job the person was applying for, and summarizing their qualifications.

Today, nearly all applications and resumes are submitted electronically, so you might wonder if a cover letter is really needed. While they’re not required, a well-written cover letter can draw attention to your application and resume. They’re usually shared as an electronic file along with your resume; most application systems provide an opportunity to upload your teacher cover letter. If not, you might consider making it part of your resume file for that application.

Why does a cover letter matter?

“A great cover letter won’t get you the job if you’re not qualified, but it can make a hiring manager notice you in a sea of applicants and encourage them to interview you when you otherwise might have been overlooked,” notes Alison Green of the popular workplace advice site Ask a Manager .

“A good cover letter can be such an effective way of boosting your application that I’m always amazed by how many candidates don’t bother to take advantage of the opportunity they offer,” she continues. Most of the cover letters Green has seen are “truly awful.” But when a letter is thoughtful and well-written, they can help an applicant stand out above the rest.

What should a cover letter contain?

Think of your cover letter like what’s known as “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.

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 from your own experiences, both professional and personal.

Can you reuse a cover letter?

It’s important to 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.

That doesn’t mean you have to start from scratch each time. Once you have a general cover letter style you like, you’ll be able to reuse large pieces of it over and over again, shortening the process. You may even find it helpful to keep a “bank” of body paragraphs you can pull from, based on the particular job you’re applying for.

Teacher Cover Letter Guide and Tips

Don’t use the same cover letter for every job. do personalize each letter, customizing it for the school and position..

Personalizing a letter means more than just changing out the job title. Use this opportunity to explain why you’re a good match for this particular job. Show the hiring manager that you’ve taken the time to learn more about their school, and consider why you’re a good fit for the role. ADVERTISEMENT

DON’T just repeat or highlight what’s on your resume. DO include anecdotes or personal accomplishments that relate to the job, but might not belong on a resume.

Remember the purpose of your cover letter: to show the hiring manager who you are. Your resume lists the facts of your accomplishments. Your cover letter is a place to add a personality to those facts. It can be a good opportunity to include relevant personal experiences that don’t necessarily belong on a resume. Help the hiring manager get to know you a bit, so they’ll be interested in following up.

DON’T write too formally. DO use a personal, warm tone that reflects your overall communication style.

By their very nature, resumes tend to use fairly stilted, unnatural language. But teachers need strong communication skills, and the tone of your letter can demonstrate yours. Strive for a professional but conversational style that avoids overly formal language. It’s okay to use a bit of humor, too.

DON’T make generalized statements about your abilities. DO illustrate your statements with specific details.

Every candidate for the job will assure the hiring manager that they’re “great at building parent-teacher relationships” or “committed to diversity.” Unless you provide compelling examples that demonstrate your abilities, the hiring manager has no reason to believe you. Instead, share a story about a time when you developed a relationship with a parent that made a real difference in a child’s education, or tell them about a specific project or activity that acknowledged and embraced your students’ diverse characteristics. These anecdotes are what bring your cover letter (and in turn, you yourself) to life for the reader.

DON’T use gimmicks or aggressive language in your opening or closing statements. DO clearly state your interest in the specific job you’re applying for.

You might have heard that you need to be aggressive in selling yourself: “You can stop reading applications, because I’m the teacher you’re looking for!” But that rarely lands well. You can also skip gimmicks like, “If you want to hear the rest of this story, call me for an interview!” Keep your opening and closing paragraphs simple, stating your interest and expressing your hope to meet with them in person to discuss the job further.

DON’T dash off your letter and send it right away. DO spend time planning, writing, revising, and proofreading.

You don’t need to spend an inordinate amount of time on your letter, but do set aside an hour or two for this task. Once you have a general cover letter style you like, you’ll be able to reuse large pieces of it over and over again, shortening the process. Be sure to revise and edit, reading the letter out loud to see if the tone sounds natural. Proofread carefully, and consider asking someone else to give it a quick look too before you include it with your application materials.

25 Teacher Cover Letter Examples

These real-life examples offer ideas to inspire you as you craft your own. Important: Don’t copy and reuse a whole letter or even large chunks of one; that’s plagiarism. Besides, you want your letter to reflect your own voice and personality. Read

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

Plus, check out the most common teacher interview questions and suggestions for how to answer them.

Free Teacher Resume Template and Tips, Plus 21 Teacher Resume Examples

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