Letter of Introduction Guide
Your Street Address
Your City, State Zip
January 1, 2015 (Date in long format)
Subject: Student Teaching Request
Dear Prospective Host Teacher and Principal:
This is the first or introductory paragraph of your cover letter. (Avoid “Hello, my name is…”) Get the teacher’s attention and interest by introducing yourself and telling them why you are writing, for example, a request to consider hosting you for a Student Teaching Experience as part of your teacher preparation program. Briefly state why you are interested in or excited about this opportunity.
The next one or two paragraphs are used to sell yourself! Include your credentials that make you prepared to work in that school, with that age group, or in that specific course. You may highlight your work or voluntary experience, skills, coursework, training, or certifications. You may discuss experiences with young people, such as scouts, camp counselor, tutor, mentor, church youth group. Explain how your interests, education and/or experiences could benefit their program/students. Mention one or two qualities or qualifications that you think would be of greatest interest to the teacher, especially those qualities that are highly sought in teachers. Try not to repeat the same information that is in the resume. Use this paragraph to describe what you have to offer and how you will add value to the classroom.
This is the concluding paragraph. Thank the host teacher and principal for considering you as a candidate to student teach at their school. You may briefly indicate the benefit this experience will provide as you prepare to begin your career as a (your concentration) educator. End by providing contact information where you can be reached.
Sincerely,
(Your handwritten signature in blue or black ink goes here)
Your typed name
Enclosure: Resume
Note: This is a full block format. Single space paragraphs with normal margins and all text aligned to the left. Avoid overuse of “I”. Proofread carefully! Do not directly name a teacher or student in your letter. Remember to balance your confidence with humility.
