how to write teacher recommendation letter

Impactful Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher [Examples]

By Status.net Editorial Team on September 8, 2023 — 13 minutes to read

Purpose of a Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher Part 1
Components of a Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher Part 2
Steps to Writing a Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher Part 3
Sample Phrases for a Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher Part 4
Teacher Letter of Recommendation Template 1 Part 5
Teacher Letter of Recommendation Template 2 Part 6
Teacher Letter of Recommendation Template 3 Part 7
Teacher Recommendation Letter Example From a Co-Worker Part 8
Recommendation Letter Example From a Principal Part 9
Template of a Character Reference Letter for a Teacher Part 10
Mistakes to Avoid Part 11

A well-crafted letter of recommendation can make a world of difference for a teacher, showcasing their strengths and helping them land the perfect teaching job. Whether you’re a colleague, supervisor, or student, your insight into the teacher’s skills, character, and performance carries significant weight. By sharing this through a well-structured letter, you can contribute to their career development. This article will provide you with useful tips and examples that will help you convey the teacher’s capabilities in the best possible light.

Related: Best Teacher Cover Letter (Examples and Templates)

Part 1 Purpose of a Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher

Purpose of a letter.

A letter of recommendation for a teacher is written to showcase a teacher’s qualifications, skills, and achievements. It helps potential employers, such as schools and educational institutions, evaluate the candidate’s suitability for a teaching position. Often, they play a significant role in the hiring process, as they not only provide an insight into the teacher’s expertise but also their personality and teaching philosophy. It’s crucial for you, as the author of the letter, to be honest and objective while highlighting key strengths and instances of excellence.

Part 2 Components of a Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher

When writing a letter of recommendation for a teacher, there are specific components you should include to make it comprehensive and useful:

Introduction : Start by identifying yourself and your relationship to the teacher. Provide context on how long you have known them and in which capacity.
Teaching Skills : Describe the teacher’s prowess in their subject area and instructional methods. Mention their ability to create engaging lesson plans, adapt to students’ needs, and assess learning outcomes effectively.
Classroom Management : Highlight the teacher’s capacity to maintain a well-organized and disciplined classroom environment while promoting a positive learning atmosphere.
Interpersonal Skills : Discuss the teacher’s rapport with students, colleagues, and parents. Detail their ability to work collaboratively in a team, as well as their communication and listening skills.
Achievements and Contributions : Provide specific examples of the teacher’s accomplishments, such as high test scores, successful school events, or innovative teaching initiatives they have spearheaded.
Personal Traits : Describe the teacher’s character and work ethic. Talk about their dedication, motivation, professionalism, and ability to handle pressure.
Closing Statement : Reiterate your endorsement, expressing confidence in the teacher’s capabilities, and offer your contact information for further queries.

Part 3 Steps to Writing a Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher

1. set the tone.

Start by addressing your letter to the appropriate person or committee. Use a formal salutation, such as “Dear Hiring Committee” or “To Whom It May Concern.” In the opening paragraph, mention your relationship with the teacher, including the length of time you have known them and in what capacity. This helps establish your credibility as a reference.

2. Discuss Qualifications and Provide Specific Examples

Next, talk about their education, certifications, and teaching experience. Mention any awards or special recognitions they have received. Highlight their strengths as an educator, such as strong communication skills, dedication to student success, or passion for innovative teaching techniques. Use descriptive language to paint a clear picture of what sets this teacher apart from others.

Support your assertions by providing specific examples of the teacher’s accomplishments and successes. Describe instances where they went above and beyond in their role or made a meaningful impact on a student’s life. This may include their ability to create engaging lesson plans, adapt to different learning styles, or foster a positive classroom environment. Incorporate details that showcase the teacher’s unique approach to education and their commitment to their students.

3. Closing Statement

In the last paragraph, reiterate your wholehearted recommendation of the teacher for the position they are seeking. Offer your contact information, including phone number and email address, in case the recipient has any questions or would like further information. Finish your letter with a respectful and professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your signature and printed name.

Part 4 Sample Phrases for a Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher

Introduction.

I am writing to recommend [teacher’s name] for [position].
My name is [Your name], and I have had the pleasure of knowing [Teacher’s name] for [number of years] in my capacity as [relationship].
As a former student of [Teacher’s name], I am honored to write this letter of recommendation.
I am writing this letter on behalf of [Teacher’s name], who I have worked with for [number of years] as a colleague.
It is my pleasure to recommend [Teacher’s name], whom I have known for [number of years] as a friend and fellow educator.
I have had the privilege of knowing [Teacher’s name] for [number of years] in my capacity as [relationship], and I am confident in their abilities as an educator.
It is my pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for [teacher’s name].

Qualifications and Specific Examples

They have [number of years] of experience teaching [subject/grade level].
[Teacher’s name] has received numerous awards and recognitions for their work in education.
Their strengths as an educator include [list of strengths], which make them an exceptional candidate for [position].
I have witnessed firsthand [teacher’s name]’s ability to [specific example].
[Teacher’s name] has a talent for [specific skill], as demonstrated by [specific example].
They have created a classroom environment that is [specific adjective], which has led to [specific result].
[Teacher’s name] has made a significant impact on [specific student’s name] by [specific action].
[Teacher’s name] has a unique talent for creating lesson plans that are both engaging and effective in promoting student learning.
They are skilled at adapting their instructional methods to meet the diverse needs of their students, ensuring that everyone in the classroom is able to thrive.
[Teacher’s name] has a keen eye for assessing learning outcomes, using data to inform their teaching practices and improve student achievement.
[Teacher’s name] is highly skilled at maintaining a well-organized classroom environment that is conducive to learning.
They are able to effectively manage student behavior, promoting a positive and respectful atmosphere in the classroom.
[Teacher’s name] has a talent for creating a sense of community among their students, fostering a supportive learning environment that encourages collaboration and mutual respect.
[Teacher’s name] has a natural rapport with their students, earning their trust and respect through their kindness and dedication.
[Teacher’s name] is an excellent communicator, able to listen carefully to the needs of their students, colleagues, and parents, and respond with empathy and understanding.
[Teacher’s name] has consistently achieved high test scores among their students, demonstrating their effectiveness as an educator.
They have spearheaded several successful school events, such as [specific event], which have brought the school community together and promoted school spirit.
[Teacher’s name] has been recognized for their innovative teaching initiatives, such as [specific initiative], which have had a positive impact on student learning.
[Teacher’s name] is highly dedicated to their students and their profession, going above and beyond to ensure their success.

Closing Statement

I highly recommend [teacher’s name] for [position].
I wholeheartedly recommend [teacher’s name] for the position they are seeking and am confident they would be an asset to your organization.
I am honored to recommend [teacher’s name] for this position and am certain they will excel in this role.
Thank you for considering [teacher’s name] for this position. I am confident that they will exceed your expectations and make a positive impact on your organization.
I hope you will give [teacher’s name] serious consideration for this position. They are an exceptional educator with a passion for teaching and a dedication to their students.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.

Part 5 Teacher Letter of Recommendation Template 1

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to highly recommend [Teacher’s Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [School or Institution]. [Teacher’s Name] has been a [Subject/Grade Level] teacher at [Current School] for [Number of Years]. During this time, I have had the pleasure of witnessing their dedication, enthusiasm, and expertise in teaching.

[Teacher’s Name] has demonstrated exceptional skills in lesson planning, classroom management, and student engagement. They consistently receive positive feedback from both students and parents. Furthermore, [Teacher’s Name] has shown a commitment to professional development and works effectively with colleagues.

I am confident that [Teacher’s Name] will be an incredible asset to your institution and will greatly contribute to the success of your students. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.

[Your Name]

Part 6 Teacher Letter of Recommendation Template 2

I am pleased to offer my strong endorsement for [Teacher’s Name] as a candidate for the [Job Title] position at [School or Institution]. As [Your Title], I have had the opportunity to observe [Teacher’s Name] in various professional settings since they became a part of the [Subject/Grade Level] team at [Current School] in [Year].

[Teacher’s Name] has consistently demonstrated a high level of proficiency in instructional design and delivery, employing a variety of strategies to engage students and foster a growth mindset. They have also exhibited strong collaboration skills, actively participating in curriculum review and school-wide initiatives.

What truly sets [Teacher’s Name] apart, though, is their passion for teaching and unwavering commitment to helping each student reach their full potential. I am certain that the dedication and skill set that [Teacher’s Name] brings will make a significant impact on the academic achievement of your students.

If there is any additional information I can provide, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Best regards,

Part 7 Teacher Letter of Recommendation Template 3

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my wholehearted recommendation for [Teacher’s Name] as they seek the [Job Title] position at [School or Institution]. I have had the privilege of knowing [Teacher’s Name] personally for many years, and I can confidently attest to their outstanding qualities as an educator.

[Teacher’s Name] brings a unique combination of warmth, creativity, and patience to their teaching. They genuinely care about the well-being and success of each of their students, and they foster an environment of trust and mutual respect in their classroom. Their lesson plans are both engaging and thoughtfully tailored to the diverse needs of their students.

In conclusion, I believe that [Teacher’s Name] would be an exceptional addition to your faculty, inspiring a love of learning and making a lasting impact on the lives of your students. I am confident that you will find their passion and expertise invaluable. Please feel free to contact me for any additional information.

Warm regards,

Part 8 Teacher Recommendation Letter Example From a Co-Worker

Dear [Recipient’s Name], I am writing to recommend [Teacher’s Name] for the position of [Position]. As a co-worker for the past five years at [School Name], I have closely observed their teaching methods, commitment to the job, and growth over time. [Teacher’s Name] is a creative and lesson plan developer. They know how to engage students in a variety of subjects and deliver comprehensive material that caters to different learning styles. They are always looking for new ways to challenge their students. [Teacher’s Name] consistently demonstrates patience and understanding when working with students who struggle academically or behaviorally. They go above and beyond to provide support and tailored approaches to help students succeed. I wholeheartedly believe [Teacher’s Name] is an excellent choice for the position of [Position] at [Name of School or Institution]. Their passion for teaching and dedication to the profession is unparalleled, and I am confident they would be a valuable addition to your team. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Position] [Your Contact Information]

Part 9 Teacher Recommendation Letter Example From a Principal

Dear [Recipient’s Name], I am writing to endorse [Teacher’s Name] for the position of [Position]. As the principal of [School Name], I have had the pleasure of observing [Teacher’s Name] teach for the past six years. I can confidently affirm that they have made a significant impact on our students and school culture. [Teacher’s Name]’s classroom management skills are exceptional. They create a positive and respectful learning environment that results in increased student participation and achievement. Their dedication to inclusivity and social skills development has fostered a strong sense of community in the classroom. Not only is [Teacher’s Name] a highly skilled educator, but they are also an active contributor to our school body. They have played a pivotal role in organizing extracurricular activities, championing school improvement initiatives, and supporting their fellow teachers. I highly recommend [Teacher’s Name] for the position of [Position] at [Name of School or Institution]. I am confident they will bring the same level of passion, expertise, and commitment to your organization. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Position] [Your Contact Information] Part 10 Template of a Character Reference Letter for a Teacher Dear [Recipient], I am writing to enthusiastically endorse [Teacher’s Name] for the teaching position at [School Name]. As a colleague, I have been fortunate to witness [Teacher’s Name]’s exceptional dedication, kindness, and empathy towards students. [Teacher’s Name] excels in creating a warm and engaging learning environment. They are attentive to each student’s needs and always encourage their strengths. I remember a time when [Teacher’s Name] took extra hours to tutor a struggling student, ultimately helping them achieve remarkable improvement. In summary, [Teacher’s Name] embodies the qualities of a remarkable educator, and I wholeheartedly recommend them for the teaching position. Sincerely, [Your Name]

Part 11 Mistakes to Avoid

When writing a letter of recommendation for a teacher, there are certain mistakes you must avoid to ensure the letter is as effective as possible:

Being too generic: Make sure to personalize the letter by highlighting the teacher’s unique skills, strengths, and accomplishments. If your recommendation letter is too broad and lacks specific examples, it may lose credibility and fail to impress the reader.
Neglecting to proofread: Typos, grammar, and punctuation errors can undermine the professionalism and impact of a well-written letter of recommendation. Always proofread your work carefully before submitting it to ensure it is error-free and maintains a polished appearance.
Focusing solely on the past: While it’s important to mention the teacher’s past achievements, also emphasize their potential for future success. Describe the skills and qualities that make them a valuable educator in their current role, as well as how they will contribute positively to future endeavors.
Overlooking the format and structure: A well-organized and properly formatted letter demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism. Include all the necessary elements, such as the date, a salutation, an introductory paragraph, a body with specific examples, and a conclusion with a compelling endorsement. Also, make sure to be consistent with font, spacing, and style throughout.
Making unverified claims: Avoid exaggerating the teacher’s abilities or fabricating achievements that can’t be verified, as this could damage their reputation and harm their chances of being considered seriously. Stick to genuine examples and honest assessments of their skills and accomplishments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key elements to include in a teacher recommendation letter.

When writing a recommendation letter for a teacher, make sure to include their full name, your relationship with them, and their teaching position. Explain your teacher’s specific skills and strengths, and provide examples of their successes. Describe their dedication, work ethic, and collaboration with colleagues. Lastly, mention their impact on students’ growth and learning.

How can a parent write an effective letter of recommendation for a teacher?

As a parent, focus on the teacher’s impact on your child’s learning and development. Describe the teacher’s teaching methods, their ability to engage and motivate students, and their adaptability to different learning styles. Provide specific examples showing how the teacher went above and beyond their duties to help your child. Close the letter by expressing your gratitude and enthusiasm for the teacher’s work.

What does an ideal recommendation letter from a principal look like?

An effective principal recommendation highlights the teacher’s professionalism, collaboration, and impact on the school community. Start by introducing your role, your relationship to the teacher, and the teacher’s teaching position. Discuss their expertise, classroom management skills, and commitment to professional development. Share examples of how they have improved student outcomes and contributed to the school’s goals.

How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation [Examples]
Impactful Teacher Cover Letter (Inspiring Examples)
Recommendation Letter for a Student (5 Free Templates)
A Perfect Letter of Recommendation [8 Templates]
A Perfect Letter of Introduction [Examples]
A Perfect Resignation Letter [Templates]

Career Blog

5 Examples of Recommendation Letter for a Teacher

how to write teacher recommendation letter

When it comes to seeking a new teaching job or advancing in the field of education, a recommendation letter can be a powerful tool. In this article, we will discuss five examples of recommendation letters for teachers, and the purpose behind each.

Overview of recommendation letters for teachers

Recommendation letters, also known as reference letters, are written by someone who can attest to a teacher’s skills, expertise, and qualifications. These letters are often requested by employers and institutions as a way to gain insight into a teacher’s character and work ethic. A recommendation letter should highlight the teacher’s strengths and qualifications, and provide context that demonstrates their ability to excel in their role.

Importance of recommendation letters

In the highly competitive field of education, a strong recommendation letter can make all the difference when it comes to securing a job or advancing in your career. A well-written letter can provide the credibility and validation needed to stand out amongst a pool of applicants. A recommendation letter can also illustrate the teacher’s potential for future growth and success, which can be a valuable asset when seeking leadership positions or pursuing advanced education roles.

What is a recommendation letter for a teacher?

A recommendation letter, also known as a reference letter, is a document that provides insight into the professional and personal qualities of a teacher. It is typically written by a colleague, supervisor, or principal who has worked closely with the teacher and can vouch for their skills, experience, and character.

A. Definition of a teacher recommendation letter

A teacher recommendation letter is a written document that provides an endorsement of a teacher’s suitability for a teaching role. It includes details about the teacher’s experience, skills, achievements, and character, as well as a recommendation for their employment or academic pursuits.

B. Types of teacher recommendation letters

There are several types of teacher recommendation letters that may be required for different purposes:

Job Application Letters: These letters are written when a teacher is applying for a new teaching position. They should highlight the teacher’s relevant experience, skills, and achievements, as well as their suitability for the role.

Graduate School Application Letters: These letters are written when a teacher is applying for a graduate degree program. They should focus on the teacher’s academic achievements and potential for future success in the field.

Promotion Letters: These letters are written when a teacher is seeking a promotion within their current school or district. They should highlight the teacher’s accomplishments, leadership abilities, and potential for further growth.

C. Who writes teacher recommendation letters?

Teacher recommendation letters are typically written by colleagues, supervisors, principals, or other educators who have worked closely with the teacher and can provide a detailed assessment of their skills, experience, and character. It is important to choose someone who can provide a strong endorsement of the teacher’s abilities and who has a positive relationship with them.

A teacher recommendation letter is a written document that provides an endorsement of a teacher’s skills, experience, and character. There are several types of teacher recommendation letters, and they are typically written by colleagues, supervisors, or other educators who have worked closely with the teacher.

How to write a recommendation letter for a teacher

When it comes to writing a recommendation letter for a teacher, there are certain tips to keep in mind to ensure that the letter is strong and effective in conveying the teacher’s capabilities and achievements.

A. Tips for writing a strong teacher recommendation letter

Start with a clear introduction: Begin the letter with a clear introduction that explains your relationship with the teacher and your qualifications for writing the recommendation letter.

Highlight the teacher’s strengths: Focus on the teacher’s strengths and accomplishments, giving specific examples to back up your claims. Explain why you believe the teacher is a good fit for whatever opportunity they are applying for.

Include personal anecdotes: Use personal anecdotes to illustrate the teacher’s character and qualities. Discuss moments where the teacher went above and beyond for their students, exhibiting an exceptional dedication to their work.

Be specific and relevant: Make sure that your letter is specific and relevant to the opportunity that the teacher is seeking. Tailor your letter to focus on the particular skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job or program.

Use a positive, professional tone: Keep your letter positive and professional in tone, avoiding any negative comments or criticisms.

B. What to include in a teacher recommendation letter

When writing a recommendation letter for a teacher, there are certain elements that you should include to ensure that the letter is comprehensive and effective.

Your relationship with the teacher: Begin the letter with an explanation of your relationship with the teacher, including how long you have known them and in what capacity.

The teacher’s accomplishments: Discuss the teacher’s accomplishments, highlighting their strengths and specific achievements.

The teacher’s skills and qualities: Discuss the teacher’s skills and qualities that contribute to their success in the classroom, such as their ability to inspire and motivate students or their expertise in a particular subject area.

Personal anecdotes: Use personal anecdotes to provide concrete examples of the teacher’s character and qualities.

A conclusion that strongly endorses the teacher: Close the letter with a strong endorsement of the teacher, expressing your confidence in their abilities and recommending them for the opportunity they are seeking.

C. Mistakes to avoid in a teacher recommendation letter

There are certain mistakes that you should avoid when writing a teacher recommendation letter.

Being too vague: Make sure that your statements are specific and grounded in evidence so that the letter carries real weight.

Focusing on weaknesses: Avoid discussing any weaknesses or shortcomings that the teacher may have, instead focusing on their accomplishments and strengths.

Making vague or unsubstantiated claims: Avoid making vague or unsupported claims about the teacher’s abilities or accomplishments.

Being overly negative or critical: Keep your tone positive and avoid any negative or critical comments about the teacher.

Sample Recommendation Letter for a Teacher

In this section, we will provide three sample recommendation letters for different types of teachers. Whether you are writing a letter for a new teacher, an experienced teacher or a substitute teacher, these samples will provide you with a good framework to follow.

A. Sample Recommendation Letter for a New Teacher

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing to recommend [Name] for a position as a new teacher at [School Name]. I have had the pleasure of knowing [Name] for [insert number of years] years and can say, without hesitation, that they would make an excellent addition to your teaching staff.

[Name] graduated from [insert college/university] with a degree in [insert major/area of study]. During their studies, they consistently demonstrated a passion for education and a natural ability to connect with students. They completed several internships, in which they received high praise from their supervising teachers for their creativity, organization, and commitment to their students’ success.

[Name] has an engaging teaching style that fosters student curiosity and encourages students to participate and take ownership of their learning. They are patient, energetic, and committed to helping their students succeed. Outside of the classroom, [Name] is also involved in a range of extra-curricular activities, including after-school tutoring and mentoring programs.

I wholeheartedly recommend [Name] for any teaching position. They are confident, dedicated and will undoubtedly be an asset to your school. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about my recommendation.

[Your Name and Title]

B. Sample Recommendation Letter for an Experienced Teacher

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I am writing this recommendation on behalf of [Name], who I have known for [insert number of years] years. [Name] has worked as a teacher in my department at [School Name] and has consistently demonstrated outstanding teaching skills and exceptional dedication to their students.

As an experienced teacher, [Name] has a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of their subject matter. They are able to create engaging lesson plans and provide clear explanations that help their students easily grasp complex concepts. Their personality, creativity, and enthusiasm contribute to their ability to foster a positive and dynamic learning environment.

[Name] has also taken an active role in coaching other teachers and providing mentorship to new teachers. They have a natural ability to effectively communicate and provide constructive feedback. I have no doubt that, with their wealth of experience, [Name] will make a valuable contribution to any school.

I strongly recommend [Name] for any teaching position they may apply for. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

C. Sample Recommendation Letter for a Substitute Teacher

I am writing this letter to recommend [Name] for a substitute teaching position.

[Name] has been working as a substitute teacher at [School Name] for the past [insert number of years], and I have had the pleasure of witnessing their exceptional teaching skills firsthand.

[Name] is highly reliable and adaptable, always stepping in with enthusiasm and professionalism whenever they are called upon. They have a strong ability to quickly establish rapport with students and create a positive classroom environment. Their effective classroom management skills ensure that learning continues seamlessly in the absence of the regular teacher.

I have received positive feedback from both students and staff regarding [Name]’s teaching abilities. They have a talent for delivering engaging and interactive lessons that keep students focused and motivated. [Name] also demonstrates patience, flexibility, and the ability to adjust their teaching style to accommodate different learning needs.

In addition to their teaching skills, [Name] is a great team player and is always willing to collaborate with other teachers and support staff. They actively participate in staff meetings and contribute valuable insights and suggestions.

I have full confidence in [Name]’s abilities as a substitute teacher and highly recommend them for any substitute teaching position. If you have any further questions or require additional information, please feel free to contact me.

D. Conclusion

Writing a recommendation letter is an important task that can greatly influence a teacher’s career prospects. Whether you are recommending a new teacher, an experienced teacher, or a substitute teacher, it is crucial to highlight their qualifications, teaching abilities, and dedication to their students. These sample recommendation letters can serve as a helpful guide in crafting a strong and compelling letter of recommendation.

Example Recommendation Letter for a Teacher

When it comes to recommendation letters for teachers, there are several instances where they may be needed. In this section, we’ll provide three examples of recommendation letters for different purposes.

A. Example Recommendation Letter for a Teacher for College Admission

[Dear Admissions Committee,]

I am writing this letter to highly recommend [Teacher’s Name] for admission to [College’s Name]. As a former student of [Teacher’s Name], I can attest to the fact that [he/she] is an exceptional educator, mentor, and role model.

[Teacher’s Name] has always gone above and beyond to ensure that [his/her] students receive a top-notch education. [He/She] possesses an innate ability to connect with students of all backgrounds and learning styles, making [his/her] classroom a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Aside from [his/her] impressive teaching skills, [Teacher’s Name] is also a dedicated member of the community. [He/She] has helped to organize numerous volunteer projects and extracurricular activities for students, which have had a positive impact on everyone involved.

I have no doubt in my mind that [Teacher’s Name] would excel at [College’s Name] and be a valuable asset to the campus community. [His/Her] passion for education and commitment to helping students achieve their full potential make [him/her] an exceptional candidate for admission.

[Your Name]

B. Example Recommendation Letter for a Teacher for a Job Application

[To Whom It May Concern,]

I am writing to express my enthusiasm for [Teacher’s Name] as a candidate for the [Job Position] at [Company’s Name]. As a former colleague of [Teacher’s Name] at [School’s Name], I can attest to [his/her] exceptional skills as an educator and leader.

[Teacher’s Name] is a natural leader who has always had a positive impact on [his/her] colleagues and students. [He/She] possesses excellent communication skills, which enable [him/her] to effectively collaborate with others, both within and outside of the classroom.

Aside from [his/her] teaching skills, [Teacher’s Name] is also an excellent problem-solver and critical thinker. [He/She] has a great talent for finding creative solutions to complex issues and inspiring others to do the same.

I have no doubt that [Teacher’s Name] would be a valuable asset to [Company’s Name]. [He/She] possesses all the qualities necessary to succeed in the [Job Position] and make significant contributions to the organization.

C. Example Recommendation Letter for a Teacher for a Scholarship

[Dear Scholarship Committee,]

I am writing this letter to recommend [Teacher’s Name] for the [Name of Scholarship] scholarship.

[Teacher’s Name] is an outstanding educator who has made a significant impact on the lives of [his/her] students. [He/She] is highly deserving of this scholarship due to [his/her] dedication to education and commitment to helping students succeed.

As a teacher, [Teacher’s Name] goes above and beyond to create a stimulating and inclusive learning environment. [He/She] tailors lessons to accommodate diverse learning styles and ensures that every student has the opportunity to excel. [His/Her] passion for teaching is evident in [his/her] ability to inspire and motivate students to reach their full potential.

Beyond the classroom, [Teacher’s Name] is actively involved in extracurricular activities and community engagement. [He/She] has initiated various projects that have positively impacted both students and the community at large. [His/Her] leadership skills, creativity, and dedication to service make [him/her] an exceptional candidate for this scholarship.

I wholeheartedly support [Teacher’s Name]’s application for the [Name of Scholarship] scholarship. [His/Her] unwavering commitment to education and the betterment of students’ lives make [him/her] a deserving recipient. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information or have any questions.

Recommendation letters play a vital role in highlighting the qualities and accomplishments of teachers in various contexts. Whether it’s for college admission, job applications, or scholarships, these examples provide a framework for crafting compelling recommendation letters that emphasize the teacher’s exceptional abilities, dedication to students, and positive impact on the learning environment.

Tips for getting a strong teacher recommendation letter

Getting a strong teacher recommendation letter can be an essential part of your journey to academic or professional success, and there are a few tips to make the process more manageable.

A. How to ask for a recommendation letter

The key to asking for a recommendation letter is to give your teacher enough time to write it and provide them with sufficient information about yourself. Consider following these tips when asking:

Don’t wait until the last minute: Ideally, you should ask for a recommendation letter at least four weeks before you need it.

Choose the right teacher: Select a teacher who knows you well, or someone you have had a positive educational experience with.

Provide information: Give your teacher an idea of what you want the letter to convey about you, and provide them with information about yourself, such as why you want the recommendation and the context of the application.

Offer to make it easy: Suggest providing them with materials such as a resume, personal statement or any other relevant information that may help them in writing the letter.

B. How to follow-up on a recommendation letter

Your teachers are busy people, so it’s essential to follow up with them after asking for a recommendation letter. Here are some tips to make the follow-up process less daunting:

Send reminders: Send polite reminders about a week before the deadline, in case your teacher forgot to write your letter.

Express Gratitude: Use the opportunity to express gratitude and appreciation for their time and effort in writing a recommendation letter for you.

Provide updates: If you receive any updates relevant to the letter, make sure to inform your teacher, so they can adjust the content accordingly.

C. How to thank a teacher for writing a recommendation letter

After your teacher has written the recommendation letter, it’s vital to show gratitude and appreciation for their work. Here are some tips on thanking your teacher:

Consider writing a thank-you note: a handwritten note is a thoughtful gesture that shows gratitude and appreciation.

Send an email: Send an email thanking your teacher for their time, and informing them of your progress is another way to show that you value their effort.

Stay in touch: Keep your teacher updated on your progress and any milestones you achieve. It shows that you appreciate their effort and support.

By following these tips, you can improve your chances of getting a strong teacher recommendation letter and demonstrating to your teacher that you value their support.

Commonly asked questions about teacher recommendation letters

A. can a student write a recommendation letter for a teacher.

While it is not common practice for a student to write a recommendation letter for a teacher, there may be certain occasions where the student’s insight can be valuable. For example, in a personal letter of recommendation where a student wishes to express their admiration for a teacher, their advice can be included as a testimonial. However, it is important to keep in mind that the recommendation letter must primarily come from the teacher themselves, as they are the subject matter expert in providing an unbiased and professional opinion.

B. How many recommendation letters should a teacher have?

The number of recommendation letters a teacher should have is subjective and depends on the institution or program’s requirements. For example, some universities may request at least three recommendation letters, while others may only require one. Therefore, it is important to carefully review the application requirements to ensure that you are submitting the right amount of recommendation letters. Additionally, it is also important to choose your recommenders wisely, as quality is more important than quantity.

C. What happens if a teacher declines to write a recommendation letter?

It is important to respect a teacher’s decision if they decline to write a recommendation letter. Teachers may decline to write a letter due to a variety of reasons, such as not having enough personal experience with the student, lack of time, or an ethical conflict of interest. In such cases, it is important to communicate the situation promptly to the institution or program that requested the letter and find an alternative solution to meet their requirements.

Recommendation letters are an important part of the teacher’s professional portfolio and can provide valuable insight into the teacher’s character, skills, and experience. Students, therefore, should carefully consider who to ask for a recommendation and how to ask them in a professional and respectful manner. By doing so, they can increase their chances of standing out in the application process and receiving an acceptance letter.

Importance of a Strong Teacher Recommendation Letter

As a teacher, you understand how valuable a recommendation letter can be to your students. A strong letter of recommendation can make all the difference in a student’s future. Not only does it provide insight into the student’s academic performance, but it also highlights their personal attributes, leadership qualities, and potential for success. Here are some key points on how a strong teacher recommendation letter can impact a student’s future:

A. How a Strong Teacher Recommendation Letter Can Impact a Student’s Future

Helps students stand out: With increased competition for admission to colleges and universities, a well-written letter of recommendation can help set your students apart from the rest. It can demonstrate their unique qualities and strengths, making them a more desirable candidate for admission.

Enhances scholarship applications: Many scholarship opportunities require letters of recommendation. With a strong endorsement from a teacher, a student is more likely to receive the funding they need to pursue their education.

Opens doors to career opportunities: Letters of recommendation from teachers can also help students secure employment opportunities. Prospective employers look for traits like leadership, communication, and teamwork skills that are reflected in a strong recommendation letter.

A strong recommendation letter can be a powerful tool in helping a student achieve their academic and professional goals.

B. How a Strong Teacher Recommendation Letter Can Benefit a Teacher’s Career

Not only does a strong teacher recommendation letter have a positive impact on a student’s future, but it can also benefit a teacher’s career. Here are some ways that writing solid recommendation letters can increase your professional standing:

Builds a professional network: By writing strong letters of recommendation, you are demonstrating your expertise and forming connections with colleagues and administrators. This can enhance your reputation as an educator and increase your opportunities for professional growth.

Encourages trust and respect: Writing strong recommendation letters can be seen as an added responsibility to your job. However, it can be a significant way to earn the trust and respect of your students, colleagues, and administrators.

Demonstrates your teaching abilities: Writing a letter of recommendation is a chance to showcase your understanding of your student’s strengths, goals, and achievements. It is a testament to your ability to guide and inspire your students.

C. Real-Life Examples of the Impact of a Strong Teacher Recommendation Letter

A strong recommendation letter can be life-changing for a student. Here are some real-life examples of how a strong recommendation letter helped students achieve their goals:

Scholarships: Jennifer was a bright student, but her family struggled financially. Her teacher wrote a compelling recommendation letter that highlighted her academic abilities and her involvement in the community. The scholarship board was impressed and awarded Jennifer a full scholarship to attend college.

Graduate School: Michael wanted to pursue a career in law. He reached out to his former professor for a recommendation letter. Impressed by Michael’s dedication and exceptional performance in class, the professor wrote a compelling recommendation letter highlighting his analytical skills, strong work ethic, and passion for justice. As a result, Michael gained admission to a prestigious law school and was able to pursue his dream career.

Job Placement: Sarah, a recent graduate, was seeking employment in the competitive field of marketing. Her professor, who had closely observed her creativity, strategic thinking, and strong interpersonal skills, wrote a glowing recommendation letter. This helped Sarah stand out among other candidates and secure a coveted position at a leading marketing agency.

These real-life examples demonstrate the tangible impact that a strong teacher recommendation letter can have on a student’s future. It can open doors, provide opportunities, and set them on a path to success.

In conclusion, a strong teacher recommendation letter holds immense significance for both students and teachers. It can greatly influence a student’s chances of admission, scholarship opportunities, and career prospects. Additionally, writing solid recommendation letters can enhance a teacher’s professional standing and foster trust and respect within the educational community. By understanding the importance of a well-crafted recommendation letter and harnessing its power, teachers can make a lasting impact on their students’ futures.

Top Ecommerce Manager Resume Examples for 2023
10 Simple Ways to Find a Job: Complete Guide for 2023
The Art of Being a Spokesperson: Job Description & Duties
Agile Business Analyst Resume: Stand Out With These Examples
How to Write a Cover Letter with No Experience in 2023

Rate this article

0 / 5. Reviews: 0

Additional menu

Educator FI

Financial Independence For Educators

How to Write a Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher

Write a Powerful Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher

posted on September 21, 2020

You’ve been asked to write another letter of recommendation for a teacher colleague. You want to be supportive but are already behind on so many other things. Fortunately, you can write a great letter of recommendation for a teacher (or other educator) quickly. Let me show you how.

It’s no exaggeration to say that I’ve written hundreds of letters of recommendation during my time in education. As a teacher and principal, I’ve written letters for students searching for jobs or applying for colleges and scholarships. As an administrator, I write letters of recommendation for student teachers and other educators looking to move to another school .

Having worked in education for almost 20 years, I’ve built quite a network of people who ask for new and updated letters. I’m always glad to support good people on their next steps, but it can become quite overwhelming at certain times of the year.

To stay sane, I’ve developed a template and process to quickly write high-impact letters of recommendation. I’ll describe it below and you can download the template near the end of the post.

Ways you can use this template and process:

Teacher writing a letter of recommendation for a student
Writing a letter of recommendation for a student teacher
School principal writing a letter of reference for a teacher
Teacher writing a letter of recommendation for a colleague
Writing a letter of recommendation for administrators
(I actually think this works for most job types, but I focus on education!)

I hope this helps you and those you are recommending!

Your relationship to the candidate, keep it tight / structured, focus on important qualities, specific examples, writing letters for friends, general descriptions without examples, writing a letter for candidates you don’t believe in, 1. preparation – before you start.

2. Establish Authority As A Reference

3. Most Important Quality

4. repeat with qualities 2 and 3, 5. summary close, putting it all together – an effective letter of recommendation for a teacher, keys to writing an effective letter of recommendation for a teacher / student.

In addition to writing a lot of letters, I’ve read thousands more for administrative, teacher, and paraeducator positions. I thought I’d mention what works well, and what doesn’t based on both my personal preferences and those I’ve seen from other readers.

Here are some things to keep in mind while writing your letter.

State how long you’ve known the person and in what capacity. It’s best if you’ve worked directly with them.

I’m a big believer in the 1-page letter. It doesn’t matter how many amazing things you have to say if you lose the reader. Most are skimming anyway.

One page. Broken into short paragraphs with what you want your reader to remember in the first sentence.

This will be enough for those who read carefully. It also allows skimmers to form the impression you want.

Three. That’s my number. Pick the three most important things you want a reader to know about the person you’re writing the letter for. If these align with something specific the hiring team is looking for – even better.

When someone requests that I write a letter, I often ask “Is there anything specific you’d like me to consider highlighting?” Often, this will give me 1 – 2 of the focus qualities and my experience can give me the others.

Give specific, work-based, examples of how the candidate demonstrates the focus quality. Don’t just say they “form strong relationships.” Describe an example or be specific about how.

What To Avoid

Don’t write a letter for someone in a professional situation unless you’ve actually worked with them. Most hiring teams won’t be convinced by a friend’s recommendation, and some will actively discount the candidate for submitting such a letter.

If you’re friends in a professional context, and you’re willing to tell your friend where they need to improve – then go for it. If not, just pass.

Saying someone is a “good guy” is of course a waste of everyone’s time. I’d argue that saying someone is “good with kids” an “effective teacher” or “passionate about equity” are equal wastes if you don’t include specific examples that show they are those things.

If you can’t provide specific examples, you aren’t helping.

This is a tricky one. There can be a lot of politics and pressure around references. Remember though – any reference you provide is connected directly to your professional credibility.

I think of letter requests in three tiers.

Those I’m fully confident in and thrilled to write a letter for. Done!

Those I’m lukewarm on. In some cases you can avoid these, in others it’s probably wise to recommend. I’ll discuss later how I navigate this.

Those I don’t believe are qualified or ready for the position. Do not write letters of recommendation in these cases. Just don’t.

But, you should be fair – be honest with the requestor about why and what they’d need to change. Example phrases I’ve used (all honest in the circumstances):

I’m sorry. I don’t have enough knowledge of your practice. I’d be glad to schedule an observation to see if I can offer my recommendation.
I believe teachers need to build strong supportive relationships with students. I’ve seen you use shame often as a management tool. I can’t offer a recommendation until that changes.
This scholarship asks for demonstrated commitment to service. I’ll have to decline because I’m not aware of your involvement in anything beyond athletics. If I’m wrong, let me know and I’d be glad to reconsider.

Writing the Letter of Recommendation

5 Easy Steps to a Teacher Letter of Recommendation

Here’s the formula I follow to complete quick and effective letters of recommendation for teachers from a principal. It’s five simple parts, and it works for just about any letter. Even better, once you get comfortable, you can quickly tailor it to be personal and powerful for any candidate.

I’m going to assume you know to date, open with a greeting, and close with a signature. They’re in the template, too.

Before you start writing, take a moment to identify the three most important things you want to say about the person. If they’ve provided you suggestions, you can review and select or reject those for inclusion.

If you are struggling to find three, here are some ways to think about and identify three things:

job-related characteristics (examples – talented instructor, skilled with data analysis, experienced organizer)
specific areas of knowledge (examples – trained in a specific curriculum, worked in a PBIS school, uses an evidenced-based practice)
professional characteristics (examples – committed to equity, driven to improve student outcomes, avid reader of research, inclusive in decision-making)

After you identify the three, make sure you have specific examples to back each. Then, rank them in order of importance. Your first characteristic should be the candidate’s strong point OR something that is incredibly important to the position for which they are applying. If both – great!

Now you’ve got all you need to write this letter.

2. Establish Authority As A Reference

You want the reader to believe you are qualified to offer a reference on the candidate. You can quickly prove this in two ways.

First, use your school/district letterhead if possible. You’ll want to check your school policy on the use of letterhead. If you can use it – do it. It’s a quick simple step that tells a reader at a glance that you are legit.

Second, your first paragraph should clearly establish that you know what the person is applying for, and that you’ve got enough knowledge to serve as a reference.

In the first paragraph, name the position, or at least job type.

It’s my pleasure to offer a reference for <Candidate Name> as a middle school social studies teacher.

I’m thrilled to write this letter of recommendation for <Candidate Name> as a district administrator.

Then, describe your relationship. Name the time you’ve known the candidate and in what capacity.

I’ve had the pleasure of working with <Candidate> for the past seven years. During that time, he taught 3rd grade and I was the building principal.

I’ve watched <Student> standout in the math department for the past three years. I had the pleasure of teaching her in three advanced math classes.

This paragraph can be boring, but it provides critical information that some reviewers expect to know immediately. You can liven it up by adjusting your descriptions, but always include position sought when possible, time known, and relationship.

After the opening paragraph, lead with an impactful sentence naming the candidate’s most important quality. This sentence is probably the most critical in the whole letter. EVERY reader will see this sentence, even the skimmers.

Ms. XYZ has the greatest impact on student achievement of any teacher I’ve ever supervised.

Jazmin is the most driven student I’ve ever had the pleasure of teaching.

I’ve never worked with a principal who connects with families as frequently and authentically as Principal LMNOP.

Once you’ve hit the opening sentence, then follow-up with 2 – 3 more backing it up. It could be a specific anecdote, or more detail on how the individual demonstrates the characteristic.

Her students increase their average reading level by two full years in the time they’re with her. She assesses constantly, provides ongoing support, and makes them believe they are readers. It’s truly incredible.

In every class, she gives her all. For example, she once missed a week of calculus due to a family illness. During that time, she independently located and read online sources about the subject the class was studying. Then, when she returned she made up every assignment and helped tutor another student who was struggling with the concept.

Then close with the result of this quality if it wasn’t included in the descriptor.

Related Post: Teacher Interview Questions

Do the same thing with each of the two remaining qualities you’ve identified. Opening sentence names the quality, then 2 – 3 sentences with specifics. Close with result.

These are separate paragraphs, contained capsules of information, that add to the visual flow and support skimmers.

You’ll find a flow that works for you. I prefer to lead with the most important job-specific quality, then discuss specific knowledge, and finish up with a bigger picture personal characteristic of aspiration.

Do what works for you. Just keep it short and tight.

In the closing paragraph, I do two things. I tie it all together while reiterating my points. Then, I offer my recommendation again, while providing contact information.

Tying it all together looks like this:

<Candidate Name> is <quality 1>, <quality 2>, <quality 3>. These will serve her well as <position and location.>

Ms. James is a skilled reading teacher, strong communicator, and committed to ensuring all students achieve. These qualities will serve her well as the reading specialist at Johnson elementary school.

Then, I close by reiterating my recommendation and providing contact information. The basic format looks like this:

Raymond has my highest recommendation. If I can provide more information, you can reach me at <phone number> and <email.>

Here is where I differentiate a little bit, and provide a subtle signal to readers. Remember those three levels of confidence I expressed earlier?

If I’m fully confident and passionate about the recommendation, I use words like “highest” and “unreserved” recommendation. I want this person to get this job.

If I’m less confident, but still willing to write the letter I simply say “has my recommendation.”

As I said before, avoid writing a letter for someone you aren’t confident in. That said, sometimes it happens or needs to be done politically. In that case, I leave out the statement of recommendation, but provide the contact information. Be aware though, that it’s unfair and potentially dangerous, to tell a candidate you are recommending them and then contradict yourself in a follow-up. It is far better to be honest and transparent up front.

Here’s a visual representation of those five steps.

5 Steps on a Letter of Recommendation for Teacher

If you’d like a blank template that lets you easily follow the five steps and include all available information, you can download it here:

By using this approach, you’ll write high-quality letters of reference that are efficient and help those you’re supporting be selected for the next steps.

Time efficiency and supporting others? Exactly what we educators need!

How To Write a Reference Letter (Examples and Free Template)

Pass along your praise in a meaningful way.

Teacher job searches frequently require something many other careers don’t: a letter of reference. Both principals and teachers may find themselves asked to write these letters for their employees or coworkers. Wondering what to include and how to make the recommendation useful? Here’s how to write a reference letter for a teacher.

Want to make things even easier? Grab our free reference letter printable template, which walks you through the whole process. Just fill out the form on this page .

What is a reference letter?

How to write a letter of reference, reference letter example: principal for teacher, reference letter example: teacher for coworker.

Reference letters are just what they sound like: a testimonial about a person’s professional qualifications, abilities, and achievements. They’re written by someone who knows the applicant well and can speak to specifics about their career.

These days, most jobs don’t require reference letters since employers perform reference checks themselves. However, academia is different. Many teaching jobs require candidates to submit written letters of reference as part of their application packet. This is just one part of their overall evaluation of a candidate, of course. But these letters remain a key part of many teachers’ job searches.

Letter of Reference vs. Letter of Recommendation

These two terms are often used interchangeably, but reference letters are almost always specific to a job search. Students often need letters of recommendation for scholarships and college applications. If you need help writing a letter of recommendation for a student, check out these articles:

Tips for Writing a College Recommendation Letter
Strong Scholarship Recommendation Letter Examples

Writing a reference letter can feel like a daunting task, but these tips can help. Don’t forget to grab our free printable letter of reference template too!

Review Reference Letter Samples

If you’ve never written a reference letter or you want to up your game, take a look at some samples first. One of our favorite ways to do it is to use AI like ChatGPT to generate some reference letter samples specific to your situation. You definitely don’t want to copy these word-for-word, but you might find some helpful phrases or get a better idea of the format you should use. We’ve included some sample letters below too.

Brainstorm Ideas First

Before you begin writing, do a quick brainstorming session and jot down your thoughts about these prompts:

What three words first come to mind when you think of this teacher?
List this person’s biggest strengths as an educator.
List a few times when this teacher really impressed you.
Has this person won any awards or accolades worth mentioning?
What makes this teacher special compared to their peers?
What would this teacher’s students say about them? What about parents or co-workers? (If you have examples, round them up to include in the letter.)

Personalize the Letter

If you can, try to write a letter that’s specific to the job the teacher needs a reference letter for. Find out what they’ll be doing in their new role or position so you can include the most relevant qualities in your recommendation. Some reference letters are more general, so it’s OK if you can’t personalize them to the job.

Ask the teacher if there’s anything specific they’d like you to mention. You may also ask if there’s anything they’d prefer to keep confidential. For instance, if the teacher has a disability, they may not want to disclose that information yet.

Write an Introduction

Introduce yourself and explain your relationship to the teacher you’re providing a reference for. Include information such as how long you’ve known them and whether you’re speaking as a colleague, coworker, mentor, or supervisor.

Verify Their Qualifications and Experience

In the next paragraph, speak to the teacher’s education, including any special certifications or professional development achievements. Mention any awards, honors, or accolades they’ve earned. You can keep this section fairly short; the teacher has likely listed all of this on their CV already. Your reference letter will just help verify these qualifications.

Highlight Their Best Qualities

In the body of your letter, write two or three paragraphs that really help identify what makes this teacher special. Don’t try to squeeze in everything you know; instead, think about what really helps the person you’re recommending stand out. For each paragraph, focus on one of these areas (or other relevant topics), choosing the two or three overall that seem most important for this person.

Subject matter knowledge and expertise
Pedagogy skills
Student and/or parent relationships
Professional development
Community relations
Communication skills
Leadership roles
School pride and loyalty
Personal traits, such as passion, enthusiasm, dedication, creativity, etc.

Provide Specific Examples and Anecdotes

This is where you really have the chance to make your letter valuable to the candidate. It’s easy to describe a person as “passionate about recognizing diversity” or “excellent at differentiating learning.” Without examples, though, these are just words. Try to anchor each quality you mention with specific examples or anecdotes that back up those words. Here are a couple of examples:

“Alana is passionate about recognizing and celebrating diversity in her classroom. She frequently draws on her strong community relationships to bring diverse speakers and cultural activities to her classroom. Last fall, she organized an incredibly popular school-wide Diversity Fair where students and their families were encouraged to share their own cultures and experiences and learn from each other. One parent noted, ‘I’ve lived in this community for three years, but this is the first time I really feel like I know my neighbors.’”
“One of Jamie’s strongest qualities is their ability to differentiate learning for their students. They’re always willing to determine what’s keeping a student from doing their best and finding new ways to overcome challenges. For instance, Jamie was instrumental in helping our school implement text-to-speech software that assists struggling readers and those who have visual impairment. This leveled the playing field in their history and geography classes, helping students focus on the subject at hand instead of spending too much time deciphering text.”

Conclude With a Strong Endorsement

You’ve come all this way, so don’t fall short at the very end! This is the time to state your personal recommendation in no uncertain terms. Sum up your major points, and offer to provide more information if needed.

“I’m pleased to recommend Alana Whitmore for an elementary teaching position at your school. Her commitment to diversity, creative classroom approaches, and compassion for students and fellow coworkers would make her an excellent addition to any education team. If you want to discuss her qualifications further, don’t hesitate to contact me.”

Write Professionally and Proofread Carefully

This is a business communication, so strive for a professional but warm tone overall. If it’s a paper letter, use the standard business letter format (on your school letterhead if you’re an administrator). In an email, be sure your signature includes contact information such as a phone number and school address.

Don’t forget to proofread! A letter riddled with spelling errors and grammar mistakes is unlikely to hold much sway with a hiring committee or selection panel. Use a program like Grammarly to help you edit your letter until you’re satisfied with the final version.

Dear Hiring Committee,

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Alana Whitmore for any opportunity that may arise that aligns with her exceptional skills and dedication as an elementary school teacher. In my capacity as the principal of Maya Angelou Elementary, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the invaluable contributions Alana has made to our school community.

Alana has worked here for seven years, three as a fifth-grade teacher and four in third grade. She came to us fresh from earning her teaching certification at Lancaster University, and continued her education over the last several years to earn her Master’s of Education in Curriculum Design and Development. She was honored with our district’s Teacher of the Year award in 2022 and was the keynote speaker at our state’s education conference in 2023.

Alana is an exemplary educator who consistently demonstrates a deep commitment to the academic and emotional growth of her students. Through her inventive teaching methods and personalized approach, she ensures that every child in her classroom is provided with opportunities to thrive and succeed. During a recent observation, I noted how she cleverly adapted her unit on volcanoes to embrace different learning styles. She provided choices like watching a video, reading an article, or listening to a short podcast to build background knowledge. Students individually chose the option they preferred, then used their knowledge to work with a partner to design a poster, write a report, or give a short presentation on the topic. Students were all engaged throughout the process, enjoying a measure of autonomy while still meeting the stated learning objectives.

Furthermore, Alana excels in building strong and collaborative relationships with parents and guardians. She understands the importance of fostering open communication and partnership between home and school, and she actively seeks opportunities to involve families in their child’s education. One parent reached out to me to share these thoughts: “Ms. Whitmore is the first teacher who seems to care about me as a parent and a person. She went out of her way to arrange a videoconference that met my hectic work schedule, and seemed genuinely interested in the suggestions I had for helping my son. Knowing that she really cares has made this school year so much better for us all.”

In addition to her effectiveness in the classroom and with parents, Alana is highly regarded by her colleagues for her collaborative spirit and willingness to share her expertise. Last year, she helped organize a very well-received professional development day, with a variety of sessions that allowed every teacher to find a subject that truly mattered to them. She serves as a mentor to one of our new teachers, who told me that Alana has helped him see how he can put his college educational theories into practice in the real world. Other teachers regularly share praise for Alana’s cooperative spirit, and she’s been awarded “Coworker of the Year” by our staff three years in a row.

Alana embodies the qualities of an exceptional educator: She is dedicated, passionate, and deeply invested in the well-being and success of her students. Her commitment to differentiation, parent relationships, and collaboration sets her apart as a truly outstanding teacher. I wholeheartedly recommend Alana Whitmore for any role or opportunity where her skills, expertise, and dedication can make a meaningful impact. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.

Gina Torres Principal, Maya Angelou Elementary

Dear Selection Committee,

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Jamie Lin for any teaching position that may become available within your school. As a fellow teacher and colleague at Ridgemont High School, I have had the pleasure of working closely with Jamie and have witnessed firsthand their exceptional talents and dedication to the field of education.

Jamie came to our school as a teacher of history and geography in 2019, working with ninth- through twelfth-grade students each year since. Before joining our team, they earned their Master’s Degree in Education with a focus on diversity studies. During Jamie’s four years here, they have been nominated for Teacher of the Year three times and received the award in 2023. Jamie frequently speaks at educational conferences on subjects like cultural relevance and student diversity.

One of Jamie’s greatest strengths is their ability to foster diversity and inclusivity within the learning environment. Whether discussing historical events or exploring global cultures, Jamie ensures that all students feel valued, respected, and represented in the curriculum. They frequently draw on their strong community relationships to bring diverse speakers and cultural activities to the classroom. Speakers and cultural presentations have included representatives of several indigenous communities and local authors from a variety of backgrounds. They also invite community politicians and activists to debate key issues, while students observe and then question the speakers themselves.

In addition to their dedication to diversity, Jamie is a remarkably creative educator who consistently goes above and beyond to engage students in meaningful and thought-provoking learning experiences. They have a passion for project-based learning, teaching critical thinking and problem-solving by having students tackle real-world issues. Through their projects, Jamie’s students have painted cultural murals on the walls in the school courtyard, helped translate our school handbook and other documents into three different languages, and created clubs for fellow students interested in topics like history, geography, and global cultures. Jamie believes in demonstrating what you’ve learned in meaningful ways, and their students thrive in this environment.

Furthermore, Jamie excels at building strong community relationships both inside and outside the classroom. They actively collaborate with colleagues, parents, and community members to create a supportive and enriching learning environment that extends beyond the walls of the school. Last fall, Jamie organized an incredibly popular school-wide Diversity Fair where students and their families were encouraged to share their own cultures and experiences and learn from each other. One parent noted, “I’ve lived in this community for three years, but this is the first time I really feel like I know my neighbors.”

Overall, Jamie Lin is an exceptional educator who embodies the qualities of excellence, creativity, and community engagement. Their passion for teaching, dedication to diversity, and innovative approach to education make them an invaluable asset to any school community.

I wholeheartedly endorse Jamie Lin for any teaching position and am confident that they will continue to make a positive impact on the lives of their students and colleagues. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.

Fatima Sundaram Teacher of Civics and Government, Ridgemont High School

Grab our free reference letter template!

This free editable template guides you through the process of how to write a reference letter. Just fill out the form on this page for instant access.

Have more questions about how to write a reference letter? Come ask for advice in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Sample Recommendation Letter for a Teacher

Ashley Nicole DeLeon / The Balance

Technology Careers
Sports Careers
Project Management
Professional Writer
Music Careers
Legal Careers
US Military Careers
Government Careers
Finance Careers
Fiction Writing Careers
Entertainment Careers
Criminology Careers
Book Publishing
Animal Careers
Advertising

Requesting and Writing a Reference

How to write recommendation letter for a teacher, more reference letter examples.

It’s an honor when a teaching colleague asks for a reference, but do you know how to write one? Or maybe you’re the one applying for a job, and you need to request a reference letter for a teaching job.

In either case, knowing how to write a reference letter, and having a sample, will come in handy. Read advice on writing a recommendation letter for a teacher, and review samples as well.

Writing a Reference Letter

If you’re writing a letter for a teacher, use samples to guide your own writing. A letter sample can help you decide what kind of content you should include in your letter, as well as how to format it.

While letter samples are a great starting point for your own letter, you should always tailor a letter to fit the particular person you are writing the letter for, and the information they ask you to include.

Requesting a Reference Letter

If you’re requesting a reference letter for a teaching position from a colleague or previous boss, you might send a reference letter sample to the writer to help guide their own letter.

Be sure to also provide them with clear instructions on what information you need them to include and give them a resume or list of your skills and experiences to help them write the letter.

You don’t want them to simply copy and paste the sample reference letter. In fact, there are a number of things to think about when asking someone for a letter of reference for a teaching job.

Review guidelines for requesting a reference letter before you ask your references to endorse you.

Follow business letter format. Use official business letter format when writing your letter of recommendation. If time is of the essence, you might consider sending a recommendation email instead of a letter.

Focus on the job description. Ask the person for whom you’re writing the letter for a copy of the job posting or job description. This way, you can focus on the requirements of the position while you write.

Try to include language from the job description in your letter.

Even if you’re writing a more general recommendation, you can still ask the person about the types of teaching jobs they’re interested in (e.g., what teaching positions, what kinds of schools).

Include specific examples. In the letter, provide examples of ways in which the person demonstrated various positive traits in the past. If possible, use numbers to quantify their successes. For example, “Under Mr. Smith’s guidance, our students’ state test scores improved in Biology by 20%.”

Remain positive. When you write the letter of recommendation, be sure to state that you believe this person is a strong candidate. You might say something such as, “I recommend Ms. Johnson without reservation,” or “I would hire Mrs. Smith again if I could.” You want to help this candidate stand out among all the other prospective candidates.

Share your contact information. Provide a way for the employer to contact you if they have further questions. Include your email address, telephone number, or both. If your reference is in business letter format, your contact information will be at the top of the letter. If you are sending an email reference letter , include your contact information below your typed signature .

Follow the submission guidelines. Ask the person you’re referring for guidance on how to submit the letter. You may be asked to email it or upload it online. Make sure you follow any requirements, especially about where to send it and when, as well as the format (for example, PDF, physical letter, etc.). Make sure you have the correct address or email address.

Proofread, edit, and test your message . Make sure your letter is accurate, professionally formatted, and typo-free before sending. Pay close attention to the spellings of proper names, including school names. Have a friend proofread your note before you send it. If you send the letter via email, be sure to send yourself a test to make sure that your formatting holds up.

Sample Recommendation Letter for a Teacher

This is a recommendation letter example for a teacher. Download the letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word) or see below for more examples.

The Balance

Sample Reference Letter for a Teacher (Text Version)

Mary Haddock 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 mary.haddock@email.com

April 12, 2022

Serena Cummings Principal The Charter School 123 Cairns Rd. School City, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Cummings,

I highly recommend Michelle Johnson as a candidate for the position of fifth-grade lead teacher at your school. As principal of St. Paul's School, I have had the pleasure of working with Michelle for the past five years. She is a driven, organized teacher who develops inspiring relationships with her students.

Michelle has always been driven to develop her skills as a teacher. She came to us as a student teacher, eagerly taking up extra responsibilities such as advisor of the school newspaper and was a member of our curriculum committee. She continued to demonstrate this drive through her tenure at our school, even becoming the head of the curriculum committee last year. Michelle embraces any opportunity for professional development, which makes her an ideal leader.

Michelle has a wonderful rapport with people of all ages, especially children. Her ability to connect with her students and her talent at teaching simple concepts, as well as more advanced topics, are both truly superior. She also has excellent written and verbal communication skills with both parents and teachers.

Michelle accomplishes all these tasks with great initiative and with a positive attitude. I recommend Michelle to you without reservation. If you have any further questions with regard to her background or qualifications, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Signature (hard copy letter)

Mary Haddock Principal St. Paul's School

Review more examples of reference letters for a variety of circumstances and get free templates to download to use as a starting point for your own correspondence.

Reference Letter Examples
Recommendation Letter Examples, Templates, and Tips
Sample Professional Letter Formats
Business Letter Format With Examples
Professional Letter and Email Examples
Types of Professional Business Letters
Sample Email Message Formats for Job Searching
Academic Recommendation Letter Examples and Writing Tips
Business Letter Salutation Examples
Marketing Cover Letter Example and Writing Tips
How to Address a Business or Professional Letter
Resignation Letter for a Dream Job Offer
Formal Letter Closing and Signature Examples
Sample Absence Excuse Letters and Emails for Work
How to Introduce Yourself in an Email (With Examples)
How to Write Reference Letters for Students and Recent Grads

Skip to primary navigation
Skip to main content
Skip to primary sidebar
Skip to footer

Legal Templates

Home Business Letter of Recommendation Teacher

Letter of Recommendation for Teacher Template

Create a teacher letter of recommendation to showcase a teacher’s accomplishments and emphasize their qualifications for a new teaching position.

Updated May 13, 2024 Written by Raina Chou | Reviewed by Brooke Davis

A Letter of Recommendation for Teacher is a vital document that showcases a teacher’s professional abilities and personal qualities. It helps decision-makers in educational institutions understand why a candidate is the perfect fit for a specific teaching position.

Key Takeaways

The letter writer should be someone of educational authority, such as a principal, department head, or another teaching colleague.
Highlight the teacher’s unique skills and experiences that match the role they are applying for.
Explain how the teacher’s values align with the prespective school’s culture.
Use examples like improved test scores, leadership initiatives, or innovative projects to showcase the teacher’s impact.

Who Should Write

A teacher letter of recommendation should be written by someone who has closely observed the teacher’s professional conduct. This could be a principal, department head, another teaching colleague, or someone in a supervisory educational role .

Can a parent write a letter of recommendation for a teacher?

While parents can provide valuable perspectives, they are often not ideal for writing a teacher’s recommendation letter due to potential bias and lack of direct supervision. Letters from colleagues or educational supervisors carry more weight, as they can objectively assess teaching skills, classroom management, and contributions to the school’s educational goals.

Keys for an Effective Teacher Recommendation Letter

Reference the position.

Tailor the recommendation to the specific teaching position. Highlight how the teacher’s skills and experiences make them particularly suited for the role.

Here are ways to effectively align the recommendation with the job requirements:

Large Classroom Management : Highlight their proven ability to manage multiple students effectively . For example, mention a time when the teacher successfully implemented group projects and cooperative learning strategies that engaged a diverse group of students in a large classroom setting.
Subject Specialization : Focus on the teacher’s depth of knowledge and passion for the subject. Discuss instances where the teacher went beyond the curriculum to enrich students’ understanding and interest, perhaps through innovative experiments, historical reenactments, or by integrating technology to create immersive learning experiences.
Contributions to Private Institutions : Emphasize attributes that align with the institution’s specific philosophy and values . Mention the teacher’s ability to tailor lessons to individual learning styles, their involvement in extracurricular activities that support the school’s mission, or their contribution to community service initiatives that reflect the institution’s values.

Discuss the Candidate’s Values

Emphasize the teacher’s educational values and how they manifest in their teaching style and classroom management. Link these values to the school’s culture and mission to show alignment and potential contributions.

Examples can include:

Commitment to Inclusivity : Explain how the teacher adapts lessons to accommodate different learning needs, encourages respectful discussions among students from diverse backgrounds, or creates a safe space where students are comfortable sharing their thoughts.
Fostering Collaboration : Many schools prioritize a collaborative culture among students and staff. If the teacher excels in fostering teamwork, describe how they engage students in group activities, facilitate peer learning, or contribute to collaborative curriculum development.
Dedication to Character Building : Some schools prioritize character development alongside academics. If the teacher emphasizes this value in their classroom, highlight examples where they encouraged kindness, perseverance, or responsibility among students.

Include Desirable Qualities

Highlight key attributes that distinguish great educators. Based on insights from both academic research and educational professionals , consider emphasizing the following qualities:

Strong Listening and Communication Skills : Teachers must effectively convey concepts while listening to students’ needs, adapting lessons to ensure comprehension and engagement.
Collaboration and Adaptability : Successful teachers work well within educational ecosystems, adapting teaching strategies to suit varying classroom dynamics and learning styles.
Engagement and Empathy : Engaging teachers connect learning with real-world applications and approach each student with empathy and a positive attitude. They build deep student-teacher relationships and are able to recognize unique backgrounds and learning hurdles.
Patience and Real-World Learning : Patience is vital in managing diverse classroom environments. Teachers who integrate real-world learning enhance engagement and understanding.
Lifelong Learning and Best Practice Sharing : Effective teachers are committed to continual learning and willingly share knowledge and best practices, enriching the school community.

Provide Concrete Examples

Use specific examples to illustrate the teacher’s achievements and effectiveness. Detail instances where they have gone above and beyond. Quantify the examples’ positive results (e.g., student outcomes, student achievement) if possible.

Concrete examples to demonstrate a teacher’s achievements may include:

Language development activities (X% improvement in early literacy scores)
Sensory learning stations (X% increase in children’s engagement levels)
Games initiative (X% increase in standardized test scores)
Environmental awareness project (reducing monthly waste by X%)
Technology integration (boosted assessment scores by X%)
Student leadership program (reduced absenteeism by X%)
Advanced Placement (AP) or SAT success (increased pass rate by X%; improved average scores by X points)
Career and technical education (CTE) (X% employment rate in technical fields after graduation)

How to Write a Letter of Recommendation for Teacher

Step 1: introduction.

Address the purpose of the letter. Establish your authority by mentioning:

Your role in the current institution;
Your professional relationship with the teacher;
How long and in what capacity you have known the teacher.

Remember to use business letter format when crafting the letter. If sending via email, title the message as “Letter of Recommendation for [Teacher’s Name].”

Introduction Sample

Dear Hiring Committee,

I am pleased to recommend Jennifer Smith for the English Teacher position at Meadowbrook High School. As Jennifer’s department head during her tenure at Riverside Middle School, where she has been a valued educator for five years, my extensive secondary education background allows me to attest to her teaching skills and dedication confidently.

Step 2: Body Paragraphs

Use the next 2-3 paragraphs to discuss the teacher’s specific qualities that make them a successful teacher. Mention:

Relevant anecdotes and skills that illustrate the teacher’s qualities;
How these qualities match the job description.

Body Paragraphs Sample #1: High school math teacher

Michael’s expertise in mathematics education and outstanding adaptability align perfectly with the demands of the Math Department Head role at Crestwood High School. A memorable example includes when he revamped the school’s Algebra curriculum to focus on real-world problem-solving, leading to a 20% improvement in students’ standardized test scores in just one year.

Throughout his tenure, Michael has consistently demonstrated strong leadership and commitment to fostering a positive learning environment. One notable achievement was his implementation of a peer tutoring program, which resulted in a 10% reduction in students struggling with foundational math concepts.

Additionally, Michael’s innovative approach to collaborative learning is a testament to his suitability for this role, particularly in a large educational institution like Crestwood High School. He effectively integrates group projects and technology into his lessons, enhancing student engagement and confidence. Thanks to Michael’s dedication, Crestwood’s math team secured the top spot in the regional math competition for the first time in five years.

Body Paragraphs Sample #2: Special education teacher

Maria demonstrates a deep understanding of special education strategies and unwavering commitment to her students’ well-being and academic growth. A memorable example includes when Maria developed a personalized learning plan for a student with autism, which significantly improved the student’s communication skills and social interactions.

Throughout her tenure, Maria has consistently demonstrated empathy, patience, and innovation. One notable achievement was her implementation of an inclusive classroom model that integrates special education students with their peers, resulting in a 35% increase in overall student engagement and collaboration, as measured by our yearly student assessments.

Moreover, Maria’s approach to individualized instruction and her ability to adapt lessons to meet diverse learning needs make her exceptionally well-suited for the role at Riverside Learning Center, an institution that prioritizes personalized and inclusive education. Thanks to her effective methods, students improved academically and showed remarkable progress in social and emotional development.

Body Paragraphs Sample #3: Elementary teacher

Sarah has a profound understanding of child development and exceptional empathy in action. A memorable example includes when Sarah initiated a reading buddy system pairing older and younger students, which led to a measurable improvement in reading fluency across grades by 30%.

Throughout her tenure, Sarah has consistently demonstrated dedication and creativity. One notable achievement was her development of an integrated science and art curriculum, which, according to our yearly evaluations, resulted in a 20% increase in student engagement.

Moreover, Sarah’s approach to inclusive education is a testament to her suitability for this role, especially in an institution like Sunnydale Academy, which values diverse educational strategies. Thanks to her effective methods, students improved academically and exhibited significant enhancements in social skills and empathy.

Step 3: Closing

Reiterate your endorsement of the candidate’s abilities and your confidence in their suitability for the position. Provide your contact information for follow-up questions.

Closing Sample

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly endorse Emily Parker, as she is the ideal candidate for the role of English Department Coordinator at Ridgeway Middle School. Her exceptional teaching methods, leadership skills, and unwavering dedication to student success assure me she will be a valuable addition to your team.

If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to contact me at 555-555-5555 or [email protected] .

Yours Sincerely,

[Signature]

Sample Letter of Recommendation for Teacher

Copy the free sample below or download our customizable teacher recommendation letter sample in both PDF and word formats.

___________________ [Referrer’s Name] ___________________ [Referrer’s Company] ______________________________________[Referrer’s Address] ___________________[Referrer’s Phone Number or Email Address]

_______________, 20_____

___________________ [Recipient’s Name] ___________________ [Recipient’s Company] ______________________________________ [Recipient’s Address] ___________________ [Recipient’s Phone Number or Email Address]

Dear ________________________ [Recipient’s name],

I am writing to recommend ___________________ [Applicant’s name] for ___________________ [Position applied for] at ___________________ [Name of entity]. As ___________________ [Applicant’s name]’s ___________________ [Relation to applicant] for the past ___ years at ___________________ [Name of entity where the referrer and applicant worked], I have had the pleasure of witnessing ___________________ [Applicant’s name]’s professional growth firsthand. With ___ years of experience in ___________________ [Referrer’s professional field], I believe I am well-positioned to provide an accurate assessment of ___________________ [Applicant’s name]’s contributions and skills.

During their tenure, ___________________ [Applicant’s name] has consistently demonstrated ___________________ [Personal trait]. One notable achievement was their involvement in __________________________________________________________ [Applicant’s accomplishment], showcasing their ability to _______________________________ [Key quality relevant to the applied position] — key qualities for the role at your company. As a result, ________________________________________________________ [Result of accomplishment].

In addition, ___________________ [Applicant’s name] exhibits strong ___________________ [Personal trait]. This was evident in ___________________ [Applicant’s name]’s commitment to __________________________________________________________ [Applicant’s accomplishment].

Thanks to ___________________ [Applicant’s name], _____________________________________________ [Result of accomplishment]. ___________________ [Applicant’s name]’s skills in _______________________________________ [Professional skills relevant to the position applied for] also align seamlessly with the requirements of the position. With their expertise and impeccable work ethics, ___________________ [Applicant’s name] is sure to be an invaluable asset to your team.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly endorse ___________________ [Applicant’s name] for this position. I am confident that they will exceed your expectations and contribute positively to your team. Should you have further questions, do not hesitate to contact me at [phone number] or [email address].

___________________ [Referrer’s Signature]

___________________ [Referrer’s Print Name]

Legal Resources
Partner With Us
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Do Not Sell My Personal Information

The document above is a sample. Please note that the language you see here may change depending on your answers to the document questionnaire.

Thank you for downloading!

How would you rate your free template?

Click on a star to rate

How to Write a Teacher Recommendation Letter: A Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on Published: March 26, 2024

By: Author Jane Morris

A teacher recommendation letter holds considerable weight, serving as a testament to a student’s character, academic abilities, and potential for success. Whether for college applications, scholarships, or employment opportunities, a well-crafted recommendation letter can make all the difference in helping students stand out from the crowd.

However, it can also be a completely overwhelming task when dozens or even hundreds of students ask you for one of these letters simultaneously (likely in the fall). But practice makes perfect… And so does a step-by-step guide!

This guide will explore the essential steps for writing an effective teacher recommendation letter for a student. EVEN if the student wasn’t the best academically but was still a great kid. There is an art to it, so let’s don our cute painter’s caps, grab our quills, and get to work!

This is how to write a teacher recommendation letter, done right and easy.

A teacher holding out is recommendation letter for a student reading

6 Steps to Writing a Teacher Recommendation Letter for Students

In many ways, writing a recommendation letter for students isn’t much different from writing a resignation letter . The output is very different – and you DEFINITELY want to avoid trauma dumping even more than when quitting – but the steps aren’t so different.

There’s a prep phase, a killer intro, a gentle body, and then you finish off with an ending that leaves a mark.

Always wow them with the ending ;)

Get the Books That Started It All

Before the blog, the podcast, the merch store… there were the best-selling books.

If you like the content on this site, then you’ll LOVE the Teacher Misery books. They’re jam-packed with teaching insanity, ridiculous true stories, and all the commiseration about the profession you’ve come to know, adore, and respect.

Follow the links below to get your copies today!

Step 1: Gather Information

One way to weed out some of the students who asked for a recommendation letter is to make them do a little work first. Have a questionnaire for them to fill out with a specific due date.

You’ve likely already got access to the student’s report cards and various comments from their teachers about their educational aptitude, so you can speak to their academic ability, writing skills, and demeanor. However, having more information about them, such as their hobbies, will help you beef up the letter…

And if they don’t submit the questionnaire by the deadline, that’s less work for you!

Here are some questions for the questionnaire to help you:

What adjectives would you use to describe yourself?
What do you consider your academic strengths and weaknesses to be?
What has been your most significant academic accomplishment?
What has been your most rewarding academic experience and why?
What extracurricular activities do you participate in? Which is your favorite and why?
Describe what you do when you are not in school—do you work? Do you have an internship? Have you learned anything from these experiences?
What do you want to study in college, and what are your career goals?
What is exciting or important about you that I do not already know?
Do your academics accurately reflect your ability? Were there any obstacles, events, or hardships that may have affected you in high school?
What colleges are you considering and is there a specific reason for those choices?
Please feel free to tell me anything else that describes the “real you” .

Now that you have gathered relevant information about the student, including their academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, leadership qualities, and personal attributes, this information will serve as the foundation for the letter. This info is crucial for the student’s recommendation letter because it allows you to provide specific examples and anecdotes that illustrate the student’s strengths and character.

Step 2: Writing the Introduction

Now let’s look at how to write a teacher recommendation letter’s intro.

First, ensure you are writing the letter on official school letterhead. If you’re teaching at a new school or just don’t know where to find the school’s letterhead, ask a colleague.

If you no longer work for a school, create an official-looking letterhead with your own information. Next, briefly introduce yourself and your relationship with the student. Then, say what kind of impact the student had on you and your class, if any.

A teacher's recommendation letter for a student with the introduction and a red pencil on top.

Here are some examples:

Bob is an excellent student I had in my 11th-grade English class.
Bob proved to be a great success within the scope of my Honors English class in eleventh grade, and I know he will do the same at your university. Bob’s intelligence, dedication, and kind nature will make him a valuable asset to your school.
I had Bob in my 11th-grade English class, and he was one of my top students. Bob is a remarkable young man with real ability and potential. His motivation to rise above his difficult familial circumstances is genuinely remarkable. Despite these struggles, Bob has maintained a mature and positive outlook on life and kept academic achievement a top priority.
I highly recommend Bob to your institution. His warmth of personality, intellect, motivation, and maturity made him a model for other students to emulate in my Honors English 11 class.
Bob’s intelligence and dedication made him an asset in my 11th-grade English class and will surely make him a valuable asset to your school as well.
When I had Bob in eleventh grade Honors English, I was impressed by his intellectual curiosity and motivation.
Bob is one of the most memorable students I have had this year.
Bob is one of the most memorable students of my career.

Step 3: The Body of the Letter

Next comes writing the body of the student’s recommendation letter.

The body paragraphs provide specific examples and anecdotes highlighting the student’s skills, accomplishments, and character traits. In essence, the qualities of a good student worth highlighting aren’t much different from the qualities of a good teacher .

Here are some examples of aspects you can comment on:

Intellectual curiosity
Intellectual creativity
Academic motivation (do they mainly value the grade, or do they intrinsically seek full understanding and mastery of the subject matter?)
Academic promise
Leadership and involvement
Sense of responsibility
Initiates and consistently participates in meaningful class discussions
Warmth of personality
Sense of humor
Concern for others
Open-mindedness
Self-confidence
Reaction to setbacks
Faculty view of the student
Attitude towards learning
Critical thinking
Readily synthesizes information
How they handle adversity

Step 4: Conclusion

Finally, to conclude a teacher’s recommendation letter, reiterate your endorsement of the student and offer to provide further assistance if needed. Advocate for the student , sing their praises one last time, and sign off!

A picture of a keyboard with a ripped piece of pink paper wedged inside reading

Here are a few examples of ways to close out your letter:

I recommend Bob without hesitation, and I truly feel that any institution that receives him is extremely fortunate. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Not only will Bob make an incredible college student, but he is sure to excel at whatever he does. I urge you to accept him without hesitation.
Bob is an open-minded and confident young man who will make only positive contributions to any academic setting.

Step 5: Proofread and Edit

Before finalizing your recommendation letter for the student, proofread and edit it to ensure clarity, coherence, and accuracy. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and ensure that the content flows smoothly from one section to the next.

If the student is particularly special, consider seeking feedback from colleagues to ensure that your letter effectively conveys your endorsement of the student. (Of course, you can’t do that for all of them because who has time for that?)

Step 6: Submit with Confidence

Once you’re satisfied with the final draft of your recommendation letter, submit it with confidence, knowing that you’ve provided valuable insights into the student’s abilities and character. Also, be sure to follow any specific instructions provided by the recipient regarding submission deadlines and formatting requirements.

Bureaucrats love proper formatting, so be sure to get that one right!

Buy Some Merch · Support the Site!

Teacher Misery is by the teachers and for the teachers. Our mission to improve the lives of teachers everywhere.

If you’d like to support the cause, buy yourself (or the burnt-out educator in your life) a gift from our merch store. And, YES, they are all as sarcastic as you’d hope. 😉

Every dollar supports the commiseration!

How to Write a Teacher Recommendation Letter: Signing Off!

Writing a teacher recommendation letter requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the student’s strengths and accomplishments.

It can be an overwhelming task, especially if you have to write 50 of them. But by following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a compelling document that showcases the student’s potential and enhances their chances of success in their academic and professional pursuits.

If you’re having any trouble, there are libraries of templates for student recommendation letters you can utilize to guide you along. (And help the process of writing in bulk!)

Overall, just remember you’re doing a nice thing. Teaching has become so much busy work and learning metrics that sometimes it can be hard to remember that it’s us impacting the future of these kids’ lives.

And if by writing a teacher recommendation letter for a student, you secure them that college selection. Well… You’ve well and truly gone above and beyond your calling.

A young boy on a soccer field holding a soccer ball and saluting the camera to thank his teacher.

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

9 Rules For Requesting Letters of Recommendation from Teachers

A person sitting cross legged, pointing to the text, with an abstract monitor behind them

Your GPA and SAT don’t tell the full admissions story

Our chancing engine factors in extracurricular activities, demographics, and other holistic details. We’ll let you know what your chances are at your dream schools — and how to improve your chances!

Our chancing engine factors in extracurricular activities, demographic, and other holistic details.

Our chancing engine factors in extracurricular activities, demographic, and other holistic details. We’ll let you know what your chances are at your dream schools — and how to improve your chances!

While you’re navigating high school and your classes, you should try to make a good impression and form a good relationship with each of your teachers. Not only will this make it easier to ask for help and navigate your classes throughout high school, but it will also give you a plethora of options to choose from when deciding which teachers are going to write your recommendation letters.

Ideally, the teacher who writes your recommendation has known you for a long time, thinks you are a great student and a great candidate for college, and has some positive experiences with you that her or she can talk about. Once you’ve identified which teachers fit that profile best, you need to kindly and thoughtfully request a letter of recommendation from them, preferably at the beginning of your senior year or earlier.

When it comes time to request letters of recommendation, you need to make sure you do it right. After all, teachers are busy, they don’t get paid for writing your letter of recommendation, and they probably have many other students asking them for letters of recommendation as well. You want to make sure you ask your teacher to write you a recommendation well ahead of time and in a kind and respectful manner so that he or she agrees.

In order to ensure the best possible recommendation letters for your college applications, make sure to follow these nine guidelines for requesting a letter of recommendation. As long as you do the following, your teacher is unlikely to turn you down!

Want to know your chances at the schools you’re applying for? Calculate your admissions chances right now and understand your odds before applying.

Rule 1: Plan Ahead

Ideally, you should know which teachers you want to write your recommendation letters well in advance of the start of your college applications. By the end of your junior year, start thinking about which teachers you have had the greatest relationships with throughout your high school career. Try to narrow it down to the 2 or 3 teachers whom you think would be the best to ask.

Some teachers are kind enough to accept recommendation letter requests during the summer before your senior year so that they have ample time to write you a great letter. Those teachers are incredible, so be sure be sure to catch them and ask before summer vacation starts.

For those teachers who are willing to write you a letter but will need to wait until the Fall, make sure to ask them at the beginning of your senior year, or at least ask them a few months before the application deadline. This way, they’ll have ample time to put together a good letter for you. Advanced notice is crucial if you want to get a good letter.

Rule 2: Ask Nicely

Remember, writing recommendation letters is not part of a teacher’s job. If a teacher agrees to write you a letter, he or she is doing it purely out of the goodness of his/her heart. You should be grateful for this and take this into consideration when asking your teachers.

Thus, asking for a recommendation letter shouldn’t just be a two sentence email telling them that they have to write you a letter. If you can, take the time to stop by their classroom, chat with them, catch up, and then ask politely whether they have the time/would be willing to help you get into college by writing you a letter of recommendation. Show that you are asking them to do this for you because you trust them and they were one of your favorite teachers.

If asking your teacher in person is not an option and you have to request a letter of recommendation by email, make sure that it is written formally and kindly. Be sure to include some updates on your life and other relevant information in the email along with some nice compliments about your teacher’s teaching style and some fond memories you have of him/her.

Rule 3: Ask What Kind of Letter You Might Get

The unfortunate truth is that not all recommendation letters are created equal. Some teachers take the time to write extraordinary letters that absolutely shower a student with praise. These are the teachers you want to try to find sooner rather than later.

Other teachers may write a generic letter, a short letter, or they may even just get a template letter off of the internet. Usually, a teacher will be honest about what kind of letter they are going to write if you ask them. If they tell you you won’t get a personalized letter from them, it’s not that they don’t mean well. Rather, some teachers are just busier than others and some have more experience in writing recommendation letters than others.

Keep in mind that when you’re asking what kind of letter you might get, you need to make sure you phrase it correctly. Don’t ask your teacher whether she or he is going to write you a good letter or a bad letter or whether your teacher spends a lot of time on each letter. Just ask your teacher how they usually format their letters or what kind of information about the student they like to add in their letters. That’ll probably give you all the indication you need for what kind of letter this teacher would write for you.

Rule 4: Be Professional

While you’re corresponding with the teacher who is writing your recommendation letter, don’t be sloppy. Remember that this teacher is evaluating you for a college, and they will probably draw on the most recent experiences they can remember with you. Thus, you need to make sure that the interactions you have while they’re writing your letter or when you ask for a letter are professional, kind, and well-mannered.

More specifically, this means that if you’re emailing a teacher, make sure it is a professional email with no grammatical mistakes and spelling errors. It should also be formatted correctly, as discussed in our comprehensive guide to e-mail etiquette for high schoolers. If you’re talking to the teacher in person, you don’t have to be too formal, but you should make sure you are polite, well-dressed, and well-mannered throughout the interaction.

Rule 5: Include Relevant Details

While you’re asking for a letter, you should be sure to bring up some memories that you had with him/her to help job his/her memory and remember you as a student. Bring up a specific experience you had with your teacher that you really enjoyed or something she/he taught you that you haven’t forgotten all this time.

You should also give your teacher all the logistical information her or she will need to write this letter, like your GPA, class rank, unofficial transcript, and most importantly, the deadline for when this letter is due. You want the teacher to leave the conversation feeling like they have more than enough information to write you a great letter of recommendation.

How does your GPA, class rank, and more affect your admissions chances? Find out by using our free chancing calculator.

Rule 6: Follow Up

After you talk with your teacher and he/she agrees to write you a letter of recommendation, don’t just leave it there. Be sure to send them an email or some more informal form of communication thanking them again for agreeing to write a recommendation letter and asking if there is any information about you that they need to write a great recommendation.

You can also contact them periodically before the letter is due to make sure they haven’t forgotten to write you the letter. You can remind them about the application due date, see if the letter is in progress, and ease some of the anxiety you might be feeling as you wait for the letter to be finished.

Rule 7: Make It Easy

You can’t just ask someone to write you a recommendation letter and give them nothing to work with. You have to give them something like your resume or something else that’ll give them some background about you, what your skills and abilities are, and and what you’ve been up to for the past four years. A good teacher will incorporate that information into their letter and link it to his/her own experiences with you as a student.

Rule 8: Send a Reminder

Teachers aren’t perfect. Even if a teacher agrees to write a letter of recommendation and gives you every assurance that it will happen on time, they may forget as time passes or they may not submit the letter by the deadline. It’s up to you to check in with the teachers that you’ve asked to write your recommendation letters and make sure that they haven’t forgotten.

You don’t have to check in too often. In fact, repeatedly bugging your teachers about the letter may annoy them. Wait a few weeks at a time before sending a quick email to check on the progress. Don’t make it a long email. Just a few sentences is fine so as not to waste your teacher’s time. If the deadline gets close and your teacher still hasn’t finished the letter, you can start contacting them a bit more frequently. Still, be conscious and respectful of your teachers’ responsibilities. After all, your letter is probably not the most important thing on their mind.

Rule 9: Say Thank You

Once your teacher has written your recommendation letter, it is so important that you thank them for taking the extra time and effort to help you with their college applications. A simple email may not be enough in this case. Many students opt to give a little gift like a gift card or something homemade like a card to show their appreciation.

We at CollegeVine have perfected the art of saying thank you to teachers who have written you recommendation letters. For our comprehensive guide, see How To Thank Teachers Who Wrote Recommendation Letters.

For More Information

Need more guidance on how to approach the recommendation letter portion of your college applications? Check out these previous blog posts on the subject:

A Step-by-Step Guide To Your Recommendation Letters

Getting The Best Recommendation Letter

Want access to expert college guidance — for free? When you create your free CollegeVine account, you will find out your real admissions chances, build a best-fit school list, learn how to improve your profile, and get your questions answered by experts and peers—all for free. Sign up for your CollegeVine account today to get a boost on your college journey.

Return to Junior Course Homepage

Get Wize with our Newsletter

News, tips, and resources to grow your business

You'll get the latest news, updates, and hiring resources every month.

All Articles
Career Advice
Industry Insights
People Management
Talent Acquisition

How to Write a Letter of Recommendation (With Templates)

What is a letter of recommendation, tips for writing a letter of recommendation, how to ask for a letter of recommendation, letter of recommendation templates , frequently asked questions.

A letter of recommendation is a snapshot of a person’s strengths, talents, and qualifications for potential employers. Typically requested from past supervisors, managers, and professors, these letters carry significant weight in hiring. The more personalized these letters are, focusing on a job seeker’s abilities, the more effective they become.

Access 350+ customizable job descriptions

Wizehire Quickstart lets you post a job in minutes with access to hundreds of industry-proven templates.

While employing a suitable template is helpful (and encouraged), here are some tips on how to make them effective.

Discuss the Letter With the Candidate

Clarifying the letter’s purpose up front helps shape your approach. If it’s for a character reference, you can emphasize the person’s qualities that showcase their integrity and trustworthiness.

For job applications, focus on achievements related to the role. Sharing a story about project leadership or successful client interactions makes a compelling case, and it will increase the job seeker’s chances of getting an interview.

The person requesting the letter should share supplemental information with you, such as their most recent resume, contact information for the recipient, the job description, and any specific details they want to include. You should also know of any deadlines so the letter can be sent accordingly.

Do Your Own Research

You may need to review your firsthand experiences with the person requesting the letter, mainly if it’s been a while since you shared a professional relationship with them. If you have access to employment or educational records, they can be a valuable source of information and may inspire some helpful talking points.

If you don’t have these documents, reflect on your relationship with the person. Consider any projects or tasks they may have worked on with you. From there, pinpoint a few highlights, such as developing a novel solution to a challenging problem or completing a task before the deadline.

Personal attributes can also strongly impact recommendation letters. Remember to recall the person’s outstanding qualities, such as interpersonal skills.

Format Your Letter for Maximum Impact

There are specific details to include in your letter to make the best impression:

Start with a welcome
State the purpose of the recommendation
Include reasons for your support
Share how the candidate has made an impact
Wrap up the letter with an endorsement
Add your contact information
Close with a formal sign-off

How to Spot and Avoid Job Scams

Job seekers are often excited to apply for new job openings. However, there are some dishonest individuals who take advantage…

There are factors to consider for job seekers deciding who to ask for a letter of recommendation. The person should be well acquainted with you and your professional output and view your contributions favorably. While not mandatory, recommendation letters are more effective when they come from a supervisor or another authority figure.

When requesting a letter of recommendation, politeness matters—mentioning specific qualities you admire in the person, such as solid leadership skills, can strengthen your request.

Also, give the person ample time to research and write the letter. The ideal time to discuss recommendation letters is when you leave a job or graduate from college.

Also, remember that some people may not have the time or feel comfortable writing a letter. In this case, sincerely thank them for their time. Remember, empathy and understanding matter, especially when receiving news you don’t like.

How to Cultivate a Positive Company Culture

What sets your company apart from the rest? If your thoughts instantly jump to “company culture,” you’re on the right…

Below are two recommendation letter templates, each thoughtfully designed to help you articulate the job seeker’s strengths and achievements. These templates provide a solid foundation you can personalize to suit different purposes.

1. Template for Job Seekers

[Recipient Name]

[Recipient Title]

[Recipient Company/Organization]

Dear [Recipient Name],

Please accept my enthusiastic recommendation of [Candidate Name] for [Job Title/Position] at [Company/Organization].

My name is [Your Name], and I [worked/collaborated] with [Candidate Name] at [Company] for [length of time]. During that time, I [explain your professional relationship with the candidate] and was genuinely impressed by the contributions [they] made to the workplace.

[Candidate Name] exhibited [one to two qualities] and played an essential role in [work task/project]. Because of [their] contributions, [Employer/Organization] was able to [specific achievement], which might not have been possible without [Candidate Name’s] assistance.

Additionally, [Candidate Name] exhibits [specific quality] and proved to be a significant asset to [Employer/Organization]. I can easily say that [Candidate Name] is among the most [specific qualities] of all the [employees/collaborators] with whom I’ve been professionally acquainted.

Based on my experience, I’m confident that [Candidate Name] would make an outstanding addition to your [Company/Organization]. Please feel comfortable contacting me at [phone number] or [email] if you’d like to learn more about [Candidate name] and [their] impressive achievements.

[Your Name and Title]

2. Template for Students

Recipient Name]

Please accept my enthusiastic recommendation of [Student Name] for [Job Title/Position/Opening] at [Company/Organization].

My name is [Your Name], and I am [Title] at [Academic Institution]. [Student Name] was my [description of academic relationship] for [length of time]. During that time, I was genuinely impressed by the contributions [Student Name] made to [Academic Program/Project].

[Student Name] consistently exhibited [one to three qualities] in my class. While working on [Academic Program/Project], [they] was responsible for [specific achievement] that set the bar relatively high for other students working on [Academic Program/Project].

Additionally, [Student Name] stood out among my pupils thanks to [their] [specific quality/qualities] and remained a bright point of my academic career. I would be overjoyed to collaborate with [Student Name] in the future, and I know they’d make an outstanding addition to your team.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me via [phone number] or [email] if you have further questions or want more information.

Sincerely,

[Your Name and Title]

A well-crafted letter of recommendation provides concrete evidence that an applicant has made noteworthy achievements in professional or academic settings. It also illustrates that the person has forged lasting connections, which speaks to their character. These letters and a strong resume can boost a job seeker’s chances of snagging an interview.

It’s essential to consider the source when obtaining recommendation letters for a job application. While letters from co-workers can undoubtedly speak to your teamwork abilities, it’s best to seek out letters from managers or individuals in positions of authority whenever possible. These sources are better suited to provide a comprehensive assessment of your skills and job performance, which can be invaluable for hiring.

It’s perfectly acceptable to submit a letter of recommendation via email. In this case, double-check the email address to ensure the letter goes to the correct person. Perform the same due diligence if sending the letter in the mail, and make sure you have the correct suite or office number for the recipient.

Stacie Adams is a seasoned writer with a passion for topics affecting modern workplaces, especially topics relevant to the restaurant and food industry. She’s written extensively on legal issues affecting businesses, including discrimination, contractual disputes, and safety code violations.

View all posts

Stacie Adams

Interpersonal Skills in the Workplace: The Ultimate Guide

Strong interpersonal skills in the workplace can significantly enhance one's ability to connect deeply with others, resolve conflict effectively, and collaborate on a team. Boosting these soft skills can help you get and keep your dream job.

How to Nail an Interview Checklist: 19 Steps

Landing your dream job starts with nailing the interview, as the first impression can make or break your chances. Our 19-step interview checklist is your ultimate guide for polishing your interviewing skills. Get ready to impress potential employers and make a lasting impression.

Job seekers are often excited to apply for new job openings. However, there are some dishonest individuals who take advantage of this enthusiasm by posting fake job listings on trustworthy platforms. These scammers waste your time and attempt to steal your personal information or money. It's important to learn how to identify and avoid these job scams to protect yourself and your valuable personal information.

Find your people. Grow your team. Meet your Wizehire.

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 4 amazing recommendation letter samples for students.

Letters of Recommendation

How important are recommendation letters in a college application? According to William Fitzsimmons, dean of admissions and financial aid at Harvard, they are "extremely important."

If you're a student, examples of great letters of recommendation can help you understand how to get strong letters yourself from your teachers. If you're a teacher, the examples in this guide will inspire you to support your students strongly as they apply to college. Keep reading for four excellent letters from teachers that will get anyone into college , along with expert analysis on why they're so strong.

Important Note: Are you looking for job recommendation letters? If so, check out my great post here!

First, let's understand the role of recommendation letters in your application.

Why are Recommendation Letters Important?

The majority of admissions officers at four-year colleges, especially private schools, emphasize that their process is holistic . They seek to gain a sense of the student as a "whole person," rather than focusing on pieces of who she is based solely on grades and test scores. Since they rarely meet the student in person, the recommendation letters, along with the student's own personal essay, play a huge role in illuminating her intellectual and personal qualities.

That's why recommendation letters from teachers, especially those who know their students well, carry a great deal of weight in applications. A letter that expresses a strong vote of support, as well as highlights a student's impressive academic and personal strengths , can have a powerful effect on that student's chances of admission.

Let's look at some samples of strong recommendation letters, one from an English teacher, another from a physics teacher, the third from a history teacher, and the final one from a math teacher. Then we'll break down exactly why these letters of recommendation are effective.

The first example recommends Sara, a senior who loves to write and read poetry.

Sample Letter #1: Sara the Poet

Dear Admissions Committee, I had the pleasure of teaching Sara in her 11th grade honors English class at Mark Twain High School. From the first day of class, Sara impressed me with her ability to be articulate about difficult concepts and texts, her sensitivity to the nuances within literature, and her passion for reading, writing, and creative expression- both in and out of the classroom. Sara is a talented literary critic and poet, and she has my highest recommendation as a student and writer. Sara is talented at considering the subtleties within literature and the purpose behind authors' works. She produced an extraordinary year-long thesis paper on creative identity development, in which she compared works from three different time periods and synthesized cultural and historical perspectives to inform her analysis. When called upon to give her thesis defense in front of her peers, Sara spoke clearly and eloquently about her conclusions and responded to questions in a thoughtful way. Outside of the classroom, Sara is dedicated to her literary pursuits, especially to poetry. She publishes her poetry in our school's literary magazine, as well as in online magazines. She is an insightful, sensitive, and deeply self-aware individual driven to explore art, writing, and a deeper understanding of the human condition. Throughout the year Sara was an active participant in our discussions, and she always supported her peers. Her caring nature and personality allow her to work well with others in a team setting, as she always respects others' opinions even when they differ from her own. When we held a class debate about gun laws, Sara opted to speak for the side opposite her own views. She explained her choice as motivated by a desire to put herself in other people's shoes, view the issues from a new perspective, and gain a clearer sense of the issue from all angles. Throughout the year, Sara demonstrated this openness to and empathy for the opinions, feelings, and perspectives of others, along with shrewd powers of observation, all qualities that makes her outstanding as a student of literature and burgeoning writer. I am certain that Sara is going to continue to do great and creative things in her future. I highly recommend her for admission to your undergraduate program. She is talented, caring, intuitive, dedicated, and focused in her pursuits. Sara consistently seeks out constructive feedback so she can improve her writing skills, which is a rare and impressive quality in a high school student. Sara is truly a stand-out individual who will impress everyone she meets. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions at [email protected]. Sincerely, Ms. Scribe English Teacher Mark Twain High School

This is a thorough, glowing recommendation for a student that Ms. Scribe clearly knows well. What other features make it stand out as a strong letter of rec?

The Breakdown

Ms. Scribe has a high opinion of Sara and her skills at writing and literary analysis. One way that she expresses this is by using powerful and specific language. She doesn't merely say Sara is a good writer. She says she's articulate about difficult concepts and sensitive to the nuances within literature. She calls her insightful and self-aware with shrewd powers of observation.

These descriptors don't happen by accident. Ms. Scribe took the time to choose her words carefully , and that effort paid off with a strong letter that captures Sara's special qualities.

Ms. Scribe also supports her characterization of Sara with examples . She describes her thesis paper and how she responded to questions thoughtfully under the pressured situation of her thesis defense. She gives the example of the debate on gun laws to illustrate Sara's openness to many different points of view.

In addition to illuminating her intellectual and personal strengths and supporting them with specific examples, Ms. Scribe speaks to Sara's goals for the future. She points out that she is talented at writing, poetry specifically, and that she is committed to continuing to improve as a writer in her future.

This letter, by virtue of its wording, length, and specificity, shows that Ms. Scribe took the time and effort to recommend Sara thoughtfully and with conviction. The fact that she knows Sara well and is committed to helping her application succeed with a thoughtful letter further adds weight to her assessment.

This letter would be a boon to Sara's application, especially if she's applying to study writing or English. She clearly impressed her English teacher and, in return, got a memorable, complimentary letter of recommendation for her college application.

This next example is similarly enthusiastic and detailed. It's for a student applying to an engineering program.

Want to build the best possible college application? We can help. PrepScholar Admissions combines world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies. We've guided thousands of students to get into their top choice schools, from state colleges to the Ivy League. We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit and are driven to get you admitted to your dream schools. Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in:

Sample Letter #2: Stacy the Engineer

Dear Admissions Committee, It is a great pleasure to recommend Stacy for admission to your engineering program. She is one of the most exceptional students I have encountered in my 15 years of teaching. I taught Stacy in my 11th grade honors physics class and advised her in Robotics Club. I am not surprised to find out she is now ranked at the top of an extraordinarily capable class of seniors. She has a keen interest in and talent for physics, math, and scientific inquiry. Her advanced skills and passion for the subject make her an ideal fit for your rigorous engineering program. Stacy is a perceptive, sharp, quick individual with a high aptitude for math and science. She is driven to understand how things work, whether they be the old computer hard drives in the school library or the forces that hold our universe together. Her final project in class was especially impressive, an investigation of frequency-dependent sound absorption, an idea that she said was sparked by not wanting to bother her parents with her hours of guitar practice at home. She's been a strong leader in Robotics Club, eager to share her knowledge with others and learn new skills. I have the students in the club prepare lessons and take turns leading our after-school meetings. When it was Stacy's turn, she showed up prepared with a fascinating lecture on lunar nautics and fun activities that got everyone moving and talking. She was our only student teacher to be met with much deserved applause at the end of her lesson. Stacy's personal strengths are as impressive as her intellectual accomplishments. She's an active, outgoing presence in class with a great sense of humor. Stacy's the perfect person to get a group project rolling, but she also knows how to sit back and let others take the lead. Her cheerful nature and openness to feedback means she's always learning and growing as a learner, an impressive strength that will continue to serve her well in college and beyond. Stacy is just the kind of driven, engaging, and curious student that helped make our classroom a lively environment and safe place to take intellectual risks. Stacy has my highest recommendation for admission to your engineering program. She has demonstrated excellence in all that she puts her mind to, whether it's designing an experiment, collaborating with others, or teaching herself to play classical and electrical guitar. Stacy's endless curiosity, combined with her willingness to take risks, leads me to believe there will be no limit to her growth and achievements in college and beyond. Please don't hesitate to contact me at [email protected] if you have any questions. Sincerely, Ms. Randall Physics Teacher Marie Curie High School

Ms. Randall is clearly as much of a fan of Stacy as she is of Mileva Marić. How does she communicate her recommendation?

Ms. Randall plugs for Stacy right off the bat with a statement of outstanding ranking : Stacy is one of the most exceptional students she's had in 15 years of teaching. A statement like this is pretty extraordinary and will make an impact in the mind of its readers. Stacy sounds like a special student, and she chose her recommender well.

Like in the last example, this letter uses strong, specific language , calling Stacy a perceptive and sharp person who has the confidence and good humor to take intellectual risks. Through its accurate and expressive language, this letter helps Stacy come to life in the mind of the reader.

Beyond the evaluation, Ms. Randall gives specific examples of Stacy's academic and personal strengths. She talks about her successful teaching in Robotics Club, her leadership in group projects, and her dedicated practice to teaching herself to play the guitar.

Rather than spreading the letter too thin, Ms. Randall highlights a few core themes. She connects Stacy's love of music with her passion for physics by talking about the frequency-dependent sound absorption project. All the threads tie together in a nice, memorable bow.

This letter is a strong vote of support for Stacy's application to an engineering program. Her physics teacher admires Stacy's skills and goals, and she made it clear that Stacy had her highest recommendation in this letter.

This next example also comes from a teacher who's extremely impressed with his student. It focuses on the student's performance in class and his volunteer work outside the classroom.

Sample Letter #3: William the History Buff and Social Organizer

Dear Admissions Committee, It is hard to overstate the meaningful contributions that William has made to our school and surrounding community. As both his 10th and 11th grade History teacher, I've had the pleasure of seeing William make profound contributions both in and out of the classroom. His school and community service is motivated by a strong sense of social justice, which he informs through a nuanced and sophisticated understanding of historical trends and events. I can say with confidence that William is one of the most caring and driven students I've ever taught in my fifteen years at the school. As a child of immigrant parents, William is especially drawn to understand the immigrant experience. He produced an extraordinary semester-long research paper on the treatment of Japanese-Americans in the U.S. during WWII, in which he went beyond all expectations to conduct Skype interviews with relatives of his featured subjects to incorporate into his paper. William has a great capacity to draw connections between past and present and to ground his understanding of current issues in the context of historical events. He never retreats to a simple answer or explanation, but is comfortable dealing with ambiguity. William's fascination with U.S. and World History and skill for deep analysis have him an exemplary scholar, as a well as a motivated activist driven to promote civil rights and work towards social equity. In sophomore year, William noticed that the college planning seminars students attended included little information for first generation or immigrant students. Always thinking about how institutions can better serve people, William spoke with counselors and ESL teachers about his ideas to better support all students. He helped collect resources and design a college planning curriculum for immigrant and undocumented students to enhance their college access. He further helped organize a group that connected ESL students with native English speakers, stating his mission to be helping ELLs improve their English and increasing multicultural awareness and social cohesion at the school as a whole. William identified a need and worked with students and faculty alike to meet it in an extremely effective and beneficial way. Ever the history scholar, he did plenty of research to back up his ideas. William believes passionately in social progress and working for the common good. His own personal experiences, along with his profound grasp on social history, drive his advocacy work. He is a talented, intelligent student with the charisma, confidence, strong values, and respect for others to make a huge difference in the world around him. I'm looking forward to seeing all the good that William continues to do for his fellow humanity in college and beyond, as well as the excellent work that he will produce at the college level. William has my highest recommendation. If you have any questions, please contact me at [email protected]. Sincerely, Mr. Jackson History Teacher Martin Luther King, Jr. High School

Mr. Jackson's letter makes William sound like a pretty amazing student and person. How does he go about expressing his admiration for William in this rec letter?

Like Ms. Randall did in her letter, Mr. Jackson provides a statement of outstanding ranking for William, calling him one of the most caring and driven students he's ever taught. Considering his long teaching career of 15 years, this says a lot about William as a student and a person.

Also like in the last example, Mr. Jackson focuses on a few core aspects of William's character. He talks about his love of history and how it informs his social activism. He comments on his exceptional historical scholarship, as well as his personal qualities of caring for those around him and working for the social good.

Mr. Jackson also gives insight into William's personal life , explaining how he has a personal connection to his projects and volunteer work as the child of immigrant parents. This letter reveals that William is a thoughtful, motivated individual who connects his own experiences with his learning and desire to contribute to his community.

The letter also showcases William's exceptional accomplishments by giving specific examples of William's research paper and his work supporting the academic and personal needs of ELL students. Mr. Jackson expresses his enthusiastic recommendation while illuminating William's love of learning and strength of character. This letter would be both impressive and memorable to admissions officers considering William for admission to their school.

This next example comes from a math teacher. Let's see what Mr. Wiles has to say about Joe.

Sample Letter #4: Joe the Hard Worker

Dear Admissions Committee, It is my pleasure to recommend Joe, who I taught in my 11th grade math class. Joe demonstrated tremendous effort and growth throughout the year and brought a great energy to class. He has that combination of a positive attitude and the belief that he can always improve that's rare in a high school student, but so essential to the learning process. I am confident that he will continue to display the same commitment and diligence in everything he does. I highly recommend Joe for admission to your school. Joe would not describe himself as a math person. He's told me on several occasions that all the numbers and variables make his mind go fuzzy. Joe did, in fact, struggle to comprehend the material at the beginning of the year, but his response to this is what really struck me. Where so many others have given up, Joe took on this class as a welcome challenge. He stayed after school for extra help, got extra tutoring at the nearby college, and asked questions in and out of class. Due to all his hard work, Joe not only raised his grades, but he also inspired some of his classmates to stay after for extra help, as well. Joe truly demonstrated a growth mindset, and he inspired his peers to adopt that valuable perspective, too. Joe helped contribute to our classroom environment as one where all students can feel supported and able to ask questions. Joe's strong belief in his ability to acquire new skills and improve through practice was likely shaped by his years as a baseball player. He's played all through high school and is one of the team's most valuable players. In his final for our class, Joe designed an impressive project calculating and analyzing batting averages. While he initially described himself as not a math person, Joe reaped the benefits of his tremendous effort and found a way to make the subject come alive for him in a way that he was personally invested in. As a teacher, it is incredibly fulfilling to witness a student make this kind of academic and personal progress. Joe is a trustworthy, reliable, good-humored student and friend who supports others in and out of the classroom. He was a pleasure to have in class, and his positive attitude and belief in himself, even in the face of difficulty, is an immensely admirable asset. I'm confident that he will continue to demonstrate the same diligence, perseverance, and optimism that he showed myself and his peers. I highly recommend Joe for admission to your undergraduate program. Please feel free to contact me with any further questions at [email protected]. Sincerely, Mr. Wiles Math Teacher Euclid High School

While the students featured in the first three examples were top of their class or demonstrated leadership in the school, Joe isn't a top achiever in the traditional sense. However, this recommendation is still a strong one, even if it says he struggled in the teacher's class. What does Mr. Wiles focus on to recommend Joe?

Mr. Wiles writes a strong letter for Joe, with the same kind of enthusiasm and specific examples as the other three letters. Even though Joe may not have gotten the strongest grades in his math class, he found an enthusiastic recommender in his math teacher. Mr. Wiles was extremely impressed with Joe's attitude, effort, and growth mindset , which he demonstrated throughout the year and inspired in his fellow classmates.

Mr. Wiles focuses on Joe's substantial personal strengths, ones that would likely be impressive to his future educators. Even in a subject that may not come naturally to him, Joe is diligent and committed. He's not self-conscious about asking questions or seeking extra help, and he retains a strong belief in himself that he can continuously learn, improve, and acquire new skills.

This letter, like the others, is effective because it is focused, supportive, and backed up with examples. As you can tell from these examples, recommendations can communicate a great deal about a student. Because of this, they can have a powerful impact on a student's chances of admission. So what can teachers and students do to make sure they are sending a strong recommendation letter that will help their chances?

Enthusiasm is key.

How to Get a Strong Recommendation Letter

While these letters are about different students with different interests, they share certain fundamental features. One, they sound excited and enthusiastic. The teachers clearly communicate that they are impressed by these students and eager to help them get into college.

At the same time, the letters don't go overboard because they have examples to back up their assessments. Specific examples and stories are key for backing up the assessment. Plus, they make a letter more interesting and memorable. Rather than just another engineering applicant, Stacy is the student who researched sound-absorption to spare her parents from hours of guitar scales.

Finally, the teachers all discuss their students' personal strengths , along with their academic strengths. They present the holistic view that admissions officers are looking for, along with their strong vote of confidence in the students' future success.

Teachers should incorporate all these features into their letters, and students should help provide them with the raw material to write about. While students should choose a teacher who knows them well and has stories and observations to share, they should also give their teachers a detailed "brag sheet" and let them know what would go into their ideal letter. That way it can be even more personalized and complement the story the student is telling in the rest of her application.

While recommenders may or may not share their letters with students, there should still be open, two-way communication when the student makes her request . That way students and teachers can work together to produce an insightful, enthusiastic, and specific letter of recommendation to send to colleges.

What's Next?

Are you a teacher writing recommendations for your students? Read all about how to write an outstanding recommendation letter for your students , along with what not to include.

Are you or a student you work with applying to a selective school, like Harvard? Learn about what kind of letter she should get for the Ivy League.

Now that you've read these examples of strong teacher recommendation letters, check out these examples of bad ones . Warning: rec letters may appear better than they actually are.

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points? We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download them for free now:

Rebecca graduated with her Master's in Adolescent Counseling from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She has years of teaching and college counseling experience and is passionate about helping students achieve their goals and improve their well-being. She graduated magna cum laude from Tufts University and scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Improve With Our Famous Guides

For All Students

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

Series: How to Get to 600 on Each SAT Section:

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 4+ ACT Points

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

Series: How to Get to 24 on Each ACT Section:

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Welcome to the Purdue Online Writing Lab

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

The Online Writing Lab at Purdue University houses writing resources and instructional material, and we provide these as a free service of the Writing Lab at Purdue. Students, members of the community, and users worldwide will find information to assist with many writing projects. Teachers and trainers may use this material for in-class and out-of-class instruction.

The Purdue On-Campus Writing Lab and Purdue Online Writing Lab assist clients in their development as writers—no matter what their skill level—with on-campus consultations, online participation, and community engagement. The Purdue Writing Lab serves the Purdue, West Lafayette, campus and coordinates with local literacy initiatives. The Purdue OWL offers global support through online reference materials and services.

A Message From the Assistant Director of Content Development

The Purdue OWL® is committed to supporting students, instructors, and writers by offering a wide range of resources that are developed and revised with them in mind. To do this, the OWL team is always exploring possibilties for a better design, allowing accessibility and user experience to guide our process. As the OWL undergoes some changes, we welcome your feedback and suggestions by email at any time.

Please don't hesitate to contact us via our contact page if you have any questions or comments.

All the best,

Social Media

Facebook twitter.

IMAGES

Free Teacher Recommendation Letter Template
Sample Recommendation Letter for a Teacher
LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION FOR TEACHER ~ Sample & Templates
Teacher Recommendation Letter Template (with Example)
FREE 6+ Sample Teacher Recommendation Letter Templates in PDF
FREE 6+ Sample Teacher Recommendation Letter Templates in PDF

VIDEO

What to keep in mind when requesting a letter of recommendation. #shorts #phdlife #academia #phd
Recommendation Letter for Class Prefect
APPLICATION LETTER for TEACHERS! (How to write a TEACHER COVER LETTER!) #applicationletter
Teacher resignation letter to school principal
Recommendation Letter format
How to Write a recommendation letter for #gks |Tips and strategies

COMMENTS

Impactful Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher [Examples]
Part 8 Teacher Recommendation Letter Example From a Co-Worker. Dear [Recipient's Name], I am writing to recommend [Teacher's Name] for the position of [Position]. As a co-worker for the past five years at [School Name], I have closely observed their teaching methods, commitment to the job, and growth over time.
Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher (With Sample)
A letter of recommendation for a teacher can use a professional format and tone. While each letter of recommendation may vary depending on the candidate and the position, there are a few pieces of information you can include: Your name and address in the top right corner. The date. The recipient's name and address.
How To Write a Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher in 6 Steps
Letters of recommendation can be an important part of a teacher's application materials. If asked to write a letter of recommendation for a colleague, here are a few steps you can follow: 1. Include the proper heading. At the top of your letter, it's traditional to include your name, job title, location, phone number and email address.
Letter of recommendation for teacher [Full template
3. Work on our template to flesh out your own teacher recommendation letter. Now that you know what to include in general, modify our teacher recommendation letter template: Dear [insert name], I am writing to recommend [teacher_name]. [He/She/They] worked with me at [education_institution_name] for [time_period] as a [teaching_capacity].
5 Examples of Recommendation Letter for a Teacher
C. Example Recommendation Letter for a Teacher for a Scholarship. [Dear Scholarship Committee,] I am writing this letter to recommend [Teacher's Name] for the [Name of Scholarship] scholarship. [Teacher's Name] is an outstanding educator who has made a significant impact on the lives of [his/her] students.
Write a Powerful Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher
In the first paragraph, name the position, or at least job type. It's my pleasure to offer a reference for <Candidate Name> as a middle school social studies teacher. I'm thrilled to write this letter of recommendation for <Candidate Name> as a district administrator. Then, describe your relationship.
Teacher Recommendation Letter Template
How to Write (Format) The general form for a teacher recommendation letter includes a letterhead, an introduction, at least two (2) body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The length of the letter will depend on how familiar the author is with the person that they are writing on behalf of. That being said, it should only fill one page.
How To Write a Reference Letter (Examples and Free Template)
How To Write a Letter of Reference. Writing a reference letter can feel like a daunting task, but these tips can help. Don't forget to grab our free printable letter of reference template too! Review Reference Letter Samples. If you've never written a reference letter or you want to up your game, take a look at some samples first.
Sample Recommendation Letter for a Teacher
Include specific examples. In the letter, provide examples of ways in which the person demonstrated various positive traits in the past. If possible, use numbers to quantify their successes. For example, "Under Mr. Smith's guidance, our students' state test scores improved in Biology by 20%.". Remain positive.
Student and Teacher Letter of Recommendation Letter Samples
To help, here are four recommendation letter examples and templates that you can easily copy and paste into Microsoft Word or Google Docs to speed up your writing process. Table of contents: For students applying to college. For students applying for scholarships. For students applying for graduate school. For teachers applying for jobs.
Teacher Recommendation Letter Template
Preparing to write a teacher recommendation letter requires that the writer gather all of the pertinent facts, logically assemble them, and use a standard approach. Writers may also want to confirm with their school or school board regarding any policies concerning letters of recommendation. If more than one individual worked closely with the ...
Free Letter of Recommendation for Teacher Template
Step 2: Body Paragraphs. Use the next 2-3 paragraphs to discuss the teacher's specific qualities that make them a successful teacher. Mention: Relevant anecdotes and skills that illustrate the teacher's qualities; How these qualities match the job description. Body Paragraphs Sample #1: High school math teacher.
20 Perfect Teacher Recommendation Letter Samples
Section 1: Letterhead. Since it is a formal letter, the recommender must include the letterhead. The letterhead is usually at the top-left corner of the letter. It should contain the following information: Date of writing: The recommender should include the date they wrote the letter to show that it is valid.
How to Write a Teacher Recommendation Letter in 6 EASY Steps
Step 2: Writing the Introduction. Now let's look at how to write a teacher recommendation letter's intro. First, ensure you are writing the letter on official school letterhead. If you're teaching at a new school or just don't know where to find the school's letterhead, ask a colleague.
How to write a letter of recommendation for a teacher
Follow these steps to learn how to write a letter of recommendation letter for a teacher: 1. Choose the correct format. Use a business letter format to write a recommendation letter. Using a professional format and tone when writing a teacher's recommendation letter is essential. While each letter may be different depending on the position and ...
A School Principal's Recommendation Letter for a Teacher
Cityville Middle School. 1 School Road. Cityville, NJ 08008. Dear Principal Nichols, It's my honor and pleasure to provide this letter of recommendation for Julia as she pursues an art teaching position with Cityville Middle School. As the principal of Townston Middle School, I've enjoyed having Julia on the teaching team for grades 6 through 8.
How to Write a Letter of Recommendation (Template + Tips)
In general, a letter or recommendation can be broken down into the following sections: Date. Recipient Name. Recipient Title. Recipient Address. Greeting: Address the recipient by name if possible (Dear Ms/Mr). Personal introduction: Begin the body of your letter by introducing who you are and your relationship to the applicant.
Letter of Recommendation: How to Write + Samples & Templates
How long you've known the applicant. By including these details in the very beginning of your letter, the reader understands the context and strength of your recommendation. 5. Give words of praise. Finish your introduction with a sentence or two highlighting some of the applicant's key strengths or personality traits.
Letter Of Recommendation For Teacher
In conclusion, writing a letter of recommendation for teacher is a meaningful way to support their career advancement or recognition. By following the steps outlined in this article and using the provided template, you can effectively highlight the teacher's qualifications, skills, and values, helping them stand out in the application process.
What Should I Give to a Teacher Writing My Recommendation Letter?
So, in a nutshell, a good letter of rec is insightful, personal, and enthusiastic. While your teacher should talk about your intellectual abilities and attitude towards learning, she should also speak to personal qualities, like empathy, creativity, or leadership skills. Just as importantly, she should be specific and demonstrative.
How to Help Your Teachers Write Strong Letters of Recommendation
Pick three traits that you want your teacher to emphasize in their letter. Then, write one story that exemplifies how you have embodied these traits. It doesn't have to be long, but you should include a few specific details. Your teacher will then be able to write accurate stories about you and what you've done.
How To Write a Letter of Recommendation (With Example)
Letter of recommendation format. Your letter of recommendation should include five items: A brief introduction stating who you are, your relationship to the applicant and your personal experience or expertise. An overview of the applicant's strengths as you've experienced them and as they relate to the recipient.
9 Rules For Requesting Letters of Recommendation from Teachers
Rule 2: Ask Nicely. Remember, writing recommendation letters is not part of a teacher's job. If a teacher agrees to write you a letter, he or she is doing it purely out of the goodness of his/her heart. You should be grateful for this and take this into consideration when asking your teachers. Thus, asking for a recommendation letter shouldn ...
How to Ask For a Letter of Recommendation: Complete Guide
The first step in requesting a letter of recommendation involves timing. Even for seasoned teachers and counselors, each individual letter takes time and thought to do well. I recommend asking your recommenders at least a month before your application deadlines. In some cases, even earlier is better.
How to Write a Letter of Recommendation (With Templates)
There are specific details to include in your letter to make the best impression: Start with a welcome. State the purpose of the recommendation. Include reasons for your support. Share how the candidate has made an impact. Wrap up the letter with an endorsement. Add your contact information. Close with a formal sign-off.
4 Amazing Recommendation Letter Samples for Students
Sample Letter #4: Joe the Hard Worker. Dear Admissions Committee, It is my pleasure to recommend Joe, who I taught in my 11th grade math class. Joe demonstrated tremendous effort and growth throughout the year and brought a great energy to class.
Welcome to the Purdue Online Writing Lab
Teachers and trainers may use this material for in-class and out-of-class instruction. Mission The Purdue On-Campus Writing Lab and Purdue Online Writing Lab assist clients in their development as writers—no matter what their skill level—with on-campus consultations, online participation, and community engagement.

Impactful Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher [Examples]

Part 1 Purpose of a Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher

Part 2 Components of a Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher

Part 3 Steps to Writing a Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher

2. Discuss Qualifications and Provide Specific Examples

3. Closing Statement

Part 4 Sample Phrases for a Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher

Qualifications and Specific Examples

Closing Statement

Part 5 Teacher Letter of Recommendation Template 1

Part 6 Teacher Letter of Recommendation Template 2

Part 7 Teacher Letter of Recommendation Template 3

Part 8 Teacher Recommendation Letter Example From a Co-Worker

Part 9 Teacher Recommendation Letter Example From a Principal

Part 11 Mistakes to Avoid

Frequently Asked Questions

How can a parent write an effective letter of recommendation for a teacher?

What does an ideal recommendation letter from a principal look like?

5 Examples of Recommendation Letter for a Teacher

Overview of recommendation letters for teachers

Importance of recommendation letters

What is a recommendation letter for a teacher?

A. Definition of a teacher recommendation letter

B. Types of teacher recommendation letters

C. Who writes teacher recommendation letters?

How to write a recommendation letter for a teacher

A. Tips for writing a strong teacher recommendation letter

B. What to include in a teacher recommendation letter

C. Mistakes to avoid in a teacher recommendation letter

Sample Recommendation Letter for a Teacher

A. Sample Recommendation Letter for a New Teacher

B. Sample Recommendation Letter for an Experienced Teacher

C. Sample Recommendation Letter for a Substitute Teacher

D. Conclusion

Example Recommendation Letter for a Teacher

A. Example Recommendation Letter for a Teacher for College Admission

B. Example Recommendation Letter for a Teacher for a Job Application

C. Example Recommendation Letter for a Teacher for a Scholarship

Tips for getting a strong teacher recommendation letter

A. How to ask for a recommendation letter

B. How to follow-up on a recommendation letter

C. How to thank a teacher for writing a recommendation letter

Commonly asked questions about teacher recommendation letters

B. How many recommendation letters should a teacher have?

C. What happens if a teacher declines to write a recommendation letter?

Importance of a Strong Teacher Recommendation Letter

A. How a Strong Teacher Recommendation Letter Can Impact a Student’s Future

B. How a Strong Teacher Recommendation Letter Can Benefit a Teacher’s Career

C. Real-Life Examples of the Impact of a Strong Teacher Recommendation Letter

Related Articles

More from ResumeHead

Additional menu

Write a Powerful Letter of Recommendation for a Teacher

Table of contents

3. Most Important Quality

What To Avoid

Writing the Letter of Recommendation

2. Establish Authority As A Reference

Other Posts to Check Out:

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

How To Write a Reference Letter (Examples and Free Template)

What is a reference letter?

Letter of Reference vs. Letter of Recommendation

Review Reference Letter Samples

Brainstorm Ideas First

Personalize the Letter

Write an Introduction

Verify Their Qualifications and Experience

Highlight Their Best Qualities

Provide Specific Examples and Anecdotes

Conclude With a Strong Endorsement

Write Professionally and Proofread Carefully

Grab our free reference letter template!

Have more questions about how to write a reference letter? Come ask for advice in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Requesting and Writing a Reference

Writing a Reference Letter

Requesting a Reference Letter

Sample Recommendation Letter for a Teacher

Sample Reference Letter for a Teacher (Text Version)

Letter of Recommendation for Teacher Template