Cover letter help

[///KP]

Hello everyone,
So I am in the process of writing my cover letter. Every time I start one I just can;t help but I get overwhelmed. I would love go get some pointers. What should be in it? What should I be focusing on? I've googled cover letters and now would like to hear from other teachers.

[upnorthteacher]

The administrators who look at cover letters and resumes need to see something that makes you stand out from other candidates. When I was applying for jobs, it seemed like I got interviews from schools where I had included specific information about their school and why I wanted to teach there. Do some research and describe what makes you a good fit for that school. The more knowledgeable you sound about the school and what they are looking for, the better.

[Chef Dave]

A cover letter is an opportunity for you to put your best foot forward. As upnorthteacher said, highlight what makes you stand out.

Avoid the novice mistake of telling an employer why you want a job. Everyone wants a job and employers don't really care about how much you need the money or how much you'd really like to work at ------ school, teaching ----- .

When I applied for my job as a chef instructor, I highlighted:

1) Former experience as an elementary teacher (17 years)

2) International teaching experience (ties in with diversity)

3) Master's degree

4) Culinary Arts degree

5) Industry experience as a breakfast chef, fine dining chef, and restaurant manager

I'm not sure what position you're applying for. If you're an elementary teacher, highlight:

1) workshop/in-service training for any of the current popular methodologies such as inquiry science or process writing

2) NCLB is a big consideration - were you teaching at a school that met or exceeded AYP? How could you help your new school meet or exceed AYP?

3) Highlight any advanced degrees you have or classes you're taking towards an advanced degree

4) Demonstrate your "over and beyond" spirit. Have you sponsored any extracurricular activities, clubs, or sports? Are you an active volunteer? I have been a volunteer for Texas Parks and Wildlife. I have also been a USO volunteer as well as a volunteer fire fighter. At one time I was even a Red Cross Disaster Relief volunteer for shelter management.