Letter Of Recommendation

To Whom It May Concern: I am very pleased to write a letter of recommendations for Heather Cook. It was my pleasure to have Heather in my 4th grade classroom for her student teaching experience. She did a great job demonstrating her skill as a classroom teacher. She was willing to work hard and wanted to excel in the teaching profession. Heather came to class organized and ready to tackle the day’s tasks. She did an excellent job at planning lessons, keeping up on grading papers, and analyzing student’s work and figuring out ways to help those students who didn’t meet the objective. She communicated well with me, letting me know what her plan for the day was. Heather taught all subjects and used ideas from other teachers as well as her own lesson plans to effectively teach students the standards. She found ways to keep all learners actively engaged and excited while learning. She was aware when students where not with her during a lesson and would implement strategies to reengage them. During one particular unit about the early people of Utah, she worried that one lesson that was simply a lot of reading and worksheets so she modified the lesson with a PowerPoint that had many visual aides to help the students understand the textbook more effectively. The lesson was a great success and the students were actively engaged. In her lessons, she used models, definitions, group work, visuals, and manipulatives in her lessons. The students always had good questions for her and she answered their questions effectively. When she didn’t know the answer to their questions, she would educate herself and then follow up with the students later. Heather was very flexible. She understood our school’s philosophy and followed our language arts and math curriculum. She added her own flare while staying true to the curriculum that our school participates in. She is a quick learner and was able to teach the curriculum effectively. She is a constant learner and was always asking me questions if she didn’t understand a particular strategy or rule. She values education and that is evident in her constant thirst for knowledge. Heather worked hard to maintain a classroom environment that cultivates a feeling of comfort and safety while still maintaining a room with minimal distractions to help students learn to the best of their ability. Heather used a technique with lots of positive reinforcement to help students behave. If the class was not following directions, she would have the students practice the desired behavior in a calm and kind manner. In other instances, she would allow the students 1 minute to visit with their neighbors and stretch their legs. This would help students refocus for the next lesson. It was obvious that Heather loved the students and wanted them to be successful in their classroom studies. Heather was a great team player and always took others advise to help better her teaching. She encouraged feedback and constantly asked for it. She participated in PLC meetings and had a good rapport with staff members. I am happy to give my recommendation for Heather to work in a school where she can teach and influence children. Please feel free to contact me if you need any further information. Sincerely, Holli Williams 4th Grade Teacher