A letter of interest for a teaching job is a proactive step sent to schools or districts that have not advertised a specific opening. It introduces you and your qualifications to hiring managers, such as a principal or superintendent, for consideration in future positions. This letter demonstrates initiative and a genuine interest in contributing to a specific educational community.
Pre-Writing Research
Before writing, conduct targeted research to make your letter impactful. Investigate the school or district’s official website to understand its mission statement, educational philosophy, and student demographics. Look for recent news, accomplishments, or special programs, such as a new STEM initiative or a flourishing arts department. You must also identify the correct person to receive your letter. For a single school, this is typically the principal; for district-wide interest, it is the Director of Human Resources. School or district directories are the best places to find names, titles, and contact information.
Structuring Your Letter of Interest
Professional Heading and Salutation
Your letter of interest should follow a standard business letter format. At the top of the page, include your full name, address, phone number, and professional email address. Below this, add the date and then the recipient’s information: their full name, title, the school’s name, and its address. Address the recipient with a formal salutation, such as “Dear Principal Smith,” or “Dear Dr. Jones.”
The Opening Paragraph
The initial paragraph is your opportunity to make a strong first impression. State your reason for writing directly and express an informed interest in the school or district. Reference a detail you learned during your research to show your genuine desire to be part of their community. For instance, you might mention the school’s commitment to project-based learning or its reputation for fostering an inclusive environment.
The Body Paragraphs
The body of your letter should consist of two or three paragraphs that connect your professional background to the school’s needs and values. The first body paragraph can align your teaching philosophy with the school’s mission. For example, if the school emphasizes student-centered learning, describe how your pedagogical approach supports this. Subsequent paragraphs should provide concise examples of your experience and skills, illustrating how you would be an asset.
The Closing Paragraph
Your final paragraph should bring the letter to a clear conclusion. Reiterate your interest in becoming part of their educational community and express enthusiasm for future opportunities. Include a direct call to action, such as stating your desire for a brief informational meeting to discuss how your skills could benefit the school. Thank the recipient for their time and consideration.
Professional Sign-off
Conclude your letter with a professional sign-off like “Sincerely,” followed by a comma. Leave space for a handwritten signature if sending a physical letter, then type your full name below it.
Key Elements to Showcase
The content of your letter must provide substantive proof of your capabilities as an educator. Instead of making general claims, provide specific examples in several areas:
- Articulate your teaching philosophy by explaining your core beliefs about how students learn and your role in that process.
- Describe your classroom management approach, mentioning your use of restorative practices or positive reinforcement to create a productive learning environment.
- Provide examples of your experience with curriculum development, such as designing a new unit or adapting existing curricula.
- Highlight your technology integration skills by referencing experience with interactive whiteboards, Google Classroom, or other educational applications.
- Demonstrate your expertise in differentiation by explaining how you support diverse learners with modified assignments or culturally relevant materials.
- Use quantifiable achievements to add weight to your claims. For example, stating that you “helped increase standardized test scores in reading by 15% over two years” is more powerful than a general statement about improving student performance.
Polishing and Finalizing Your Letter
After drafting your letter, meticulously proofread the document for any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors. Reading the letter aloud is an effective technique for catching awkward phrasing or run-on sentences. Having a trusted colleague or mentor review the letter can provide a valuable second perspective. Common mistakes to avoid include sending a letter that is not tailored to the school, exceeding a single page, or adopting an overly casual tone. The final document should be concise, professional, and completely error-free.
What to Do After Sending the Letter
After sending your letter of interest, a polite follow-up can be beneficial if you do not receive a response. It is appropriate to send a brief follow-up email after one to two weeks. In the email, reiterate your interest in potential opportunities and remind the recipient that you submitted a letter of interest and resume for their consideration.