Guidelines especially for student teachers or recent graduates -- An alternative resource on creating a teaching resume and cover letter. Find samples, and a few tips.
| You've built your background knowledge, gained job experience,
and are on your way to a career in teaching! You probably know how to
write a resume, but have you ever written one especially for a career in
teaching?
When I set out on the task to find a teaching job last year, I found myself
re-examining all of the resume writing skills I had previously learned...
and
now, I'll share that experience with you. I'll follow up with example
of my teaching resume and cover letter. |
The Resume These are the things I found most important in writing my resume.
- Make it look professional.
Don't use cutesy paper, or casual font for your resume. Use a neutral
paper color and a professional looking font such as Times Roman, Arial, or Helvetica.
The font should not be too large. Generally, keep the font size within
10-12 points. (Your resume is your first impression, and it must reflect
that you are a professional. Remember who your audience is.)
- Focus on your teaching experience.
You haven't ever taught before? Yes, you have! Document all of the hours
you spent in practicums, volunteering, student teaching, aiding, sunday school
& bible school, etc.! It doesn't have to be paid experience.
- Choose areas that most reflect your abilities & interests in the
teaching field.
Indicate your membership in teaching organizations for students, add a section
including your professional goals, etc. You make the resume work for you.
There are not categories you have to use in resume writing--make up your own
to fit your needs. Sell yourself!
- Gain some experience or extra qualifications related to your career.
If you are in your last year of college, or haven't been able to obtain a job
yet, consider taking on a job working with children or attending a educational
workshop. This will show your commitment to the field, plus you'll be
more knowledgeable in the profession. I worked with an after-school latchkey
program for a short time, and at Sylvan Learning
Center, which provides tutoring for kids to adults. Check your area
for these types of opportunities. I also attended a Wright
Group Shared Reading workshop during my student teaching. A workshop
provides a lot of information that can be applied directly to the classroom,
unlike most education courses.
- Make your resume the one that stands out.
There are many ways to do this, but I don't think they all would be recommended.
(You wouldn't want to use fluorescent paper.) I heard of someone making
his resume like a trifold brochure. Therefore, each time the administrator
put the resumes in a stack, his would have to be on top due to it's size.
I didn't try someone making
his resume like a trifold brochure. Therefore, each time the administrator
put the resumes in a stack, his would have to be on top due to it's size.
I didn't try
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