Cover Letter HELP! (Revised, with suggestions...just Need a Final Look At :))

"I develop lessons, look at action plans, and [YOU NEED A VERB HERE--MAYBE 'MAKE USE OF'?] other types of data to ensure the success of each student." Or else say "Careful use of action plans and other data enable me to design lessons that ensure the success of each student." But can any lesson really ENSURE success? I think you mean increase the likelihood of success.

"I am pleased with the small-town atmosphere, and the high level of parental involvement." To me, this sounds condescending (who cares if it pleases you?). How about "Working in a district such as yours, with its small-town atmosphere and high level of parental involvement, would be an excellent complement to the personal attention and support I try to give each child."

Here are my suggestions:

1. Remove the facts from the first paragraph about your degree/student teaching/present and past employment. Those belong in your resume. Instead, introduce yourself in a positive way, without referring to how or when you became aware of this job opportunity. And I believe you should remove your reference to yourself as a parent, with a daughter. Cover letters should not reveal personal details that don't have anything to do with the job. You are applying as a teaching professional for a job, not seeking a school option for your child. Say something like: "I wish to apply for the third grade teaching position that you recently advertised. My credentials, capability, experience, and thorough enjoyment of teaching children will make me the ideal candidate for this position."

2. It might not be clear to a reviewer what PLC is (I have no idea what it is, but I am guessing it's like a parent and teacher association), so spell it out. And instead of saying you attend your students' IEPs, state that you attend the planning or reviewing sessions of IEPs. An IEP is a plan. You can't attend that. You attend the meetings to set up or modify the IEP.

3. I would create a new paragraph after that, in which you can give an example of how you integrate different subjects and are comfortable using technology.

Good luck with your job search! I hope this opportunity works out for you!

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Dear >>>>

I recently became aware of the third grade teaching position at your school. I am very interested in the position. I currently teach fourth grade at______________ in _____, ____. I am also experienced in teaching kindergarten and 2nd grade and have substituted for one term at Kansas Elementary. I also have a degree in Elementary Education from the Wichita State University.

I currently instruct all of my students in reading, math, and science, which requires me to utilize a variety of resources and techniques to make learning both challenging and fun. I am an active participant in my PLC, attend all students’ IEPs, and co-teach a weekly science module. I develop lessons, look at action plans, and other types of data to ensure the success of each student. I integrate science and technology often into reading and math. For example, when discussing compare/contrast with students, we read an article about helicopters and airplanes (incorporating our aviation theme) and then used PowerPoint to create Venn Diagrams. I have a passion for teaching and deeply care for each and every child that walks into my classroom.

After reviewing the state testing data for ____, I am thoroughly impressed with the high level of success. I am pleased with the small-town atmosphere, and the high level of parental involvement. I would welcome the opportunity to teach at___ Elementary. I am available to discuss my qualifications further at your convenience. Thank you for your consideration.

I agree with the other posters and taking out personal info about being a mom and your daughter. Also some of the info belongs in the actual resume not the cover letter.

Did you find out about the job through an advertisement or some other means? Put how you became aware of the job. Also I don't think I would only mention that one job, I would add something you are open to other positions that my be available. Mentioning that you teach reading,math and science is not necessary, of course you teach those things, you could mention some things you do in your classroom that may be out of the ordinary.

Definitely google cover letters for some extra help. I think you have a great start, just some fine tuning.

This isn't critical, but the placement of "often" before into is just slightly awkward, it possibly could be better placed before the word integrate. Your choice.

But "used PowerPoint" needs to be changed to "use PowerPoint" to keep the present tense.

I also prefer "who" vs. "that," when referring to human beings -- "...every child who walks into my classroom."

I would not include personal information. I think it is unprofessional.

Nit picky: don't use the word very (first paragraph)

Otherwise looks great! Good luck.