To write an impactful substitute teacher cover letter, emphasize your ability to manage classrooms, foster positive relationships with students, and implement lesson plans. Demonstrate your experience adapting quickly to new learning environments and maintaining education quality during the primary teacher’s absence. Explore our substitute teacher cover letter examples and expert advice to help you land your next big job opportunity.
Substitute Teacher Cover Letter Examples and Templates
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Substitute Teacher Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples
No-Experience Substitute Teacher
Entry-Level Substitute Teacher
Experienced Substitute Teacher
Elementary Substitute Teacher
High School Substitute Teacher
Education Technology Substitute Teacher
Taylor Lee
Substitute Teacher | [email protected] | (415) 555-1212 | San Francisco, CA 94107
June 19, 2025
Ms. Olivia Nguyen
Director of Human Resources
Bayview Unified School District
(415) 555-3434 [email protected]
Dear Ms. Nguyen:
As a recent graduate with a B.A. in Elementary Education from San Francisco State University, I was honored with the “Emerging Educator Award” for my lesson-plan innovation — an acknowledgment of my ability to craft engaging, standards-aligned instruction even as a student.
I’m eager to begin my teaching career as a Substitute Teacher with Bayview Unified because of your district’s reputation for supportive mentorship and a commitment to differentiated instruction. After reviewing your job posting, I’m particularly drawn to your pilot peer-coaching program and would value the chance to learn from seasoned educators while contributing fresh ideas.
Key Achievements:
Completed 120 hours of supervised practicum, designing and delivering lessons in math, reading, and social studies for grades K–5
Developed classroom management strategies through role-play simulations, achieving positive feedback from mentor teachers
Trained on the Illuminate Education platform for digital attendance and grade tracking
I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my foundational teaching skills and enthusiasm for lifelong learning can support your schools. Please let me know a convenient time to arrange an interview.
Sincerely,
Taylor Lee
Casey Clark
Substitute Teacher | [email protected] | (310) 555-5656 | Los Angeles, CA 90007
June 19, 2025
Mr. Marcus Reed
Principal
Sunset Hills Elementary School
(310) 555-7878 [email protected]
Dear Mr. Reed:
During my student-teaching placement at Jefferson Elementary, I was commended for increasing fifth-grade math quiz averages by 18% in six weeks through targeted, hands-on problem-solving workshops.
I’m applying for the Substitute Teacher position at Sunset Hills Elementary because your school’s focus on project-based learning and positive behavior supports aligns with my instructional philosophy. After reading your recent district report, I’m excited to help maintain continuity of learning when regular teachers are absent.
Key Achievements:
Delivered engaging lessons in language arts and social studies to classes of 25 students, adapting plans on short notice
Collaborated with special-education staff to implement IEP accommodations, ensuring all students’ needs were met
Utilized ClassDojo and Google Classroom to manage student behavior and share assignments digitally
I welcome discussing how my hands-on classroom experience and collaborative approach can benefit Sunset Hills students. Thank you for your consideration; I look forward to arranging an interview.
Sincerely,
Casey Clark
Alex Johnson
Substitute Teacher | [email protected] | (312) 555-9090 | Chicago, IL 60611
June 19, 2025
Ms. Rachel Gomez
Coordinator of Substitute Services
Chicago Public Schools
(312) 555-2121 [email protected]
Dear Ms. Gomez:
In my two years as a substitute teacher with Evanston Township District 202, I maintained a 95% teacher satisfaction rating by arriving fully prepared with engaging lessons and seamless transitions, minimizing instructional disruption in grades K–8.
I am drawn to the Substitute Teacher role at Chicago Public Schools because of your district’s emphasis on equity, culturally responsive teaching, and professional development. After reviewing the position details, I’m eager to support your school during staff absences and participate in your weekend training workshops.
Key Achievements:
Covered core subjects for up to four different classrooms per week, consistently following diverse lesson plans and classroom procedures
Led small-group interventions in reading and math, resulting in a 12% improvement on benchmark assessments
Served as a mentor for incoming substitutes, conducted software training on Aspen, and managed orientation sessions
I would be delighted to speak with you about how my proven track record and dedication to student success can serve CPS. Please let me know a suitable time to meet.
Sincerely,
Alex Johnson
Aliya Thomas
Substitute Teacher | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | New York, NY 12345 | LinkedIn
June 19, 2025
John Roland
Talent Specialist
Brooklyn Center Elementary
(987) 654-3210 [email protected]
Dear Mr. Roland,
As a student teacher and substitute teacher at Syracuse Elementary, I served as a short-term substitute for first, third, and fourth-grade classrooms with 20 to 25 students. To reduce the impact of teacher absences on academic performance, I implemented and refined lesson plans using differentiated instruction. I hope to bring the same level of success to Brooklyn Center Elementary in the substitute teacher position.
Your organization’s reputation for academic excellence draws me to apply for this position. I can provide valuable contributions to your school based on the following achievements from my professional career:
Delivered one-on-one, small group, and whole group instruction in English, math, and social studies to students across various cultural backgrounds and improved average test scores by 10% to 20% in language arts
Performed student assessments, evaluated performance, provided differentiated instruction, and tailored curriculum to student needs
Coordinated with the teacher during absences to review Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), discuss student behavior, and ensure alignment with core curriculum and teaching strategies
I would like to schedule an interview to discuss further how differentiated instruction expertise can drive student growth for Brooklyn Center Elementary. You may contact me via phone or email at your convenience for any questions you may have. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Aliya Thomas
Aaron Taylor
Substitute Teacher | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Los Angeles, CA 12345 | LinkedIn
June 19, 2025
Karen Summers
Hiring Manager
North Los Angeles High School
(987) 654-3210 [email protected]
Dear Ms. Summers,
With over five years of teaching experience, I excel in developing innovative strategies to improve student academic performance. As a substitute teacher at Santa Cruz High School, I coordinated with teachers and education teams to create inclusive learning environments centered on diversity and empowerment. I can bring the same level of success to your organization in the substitute teacher position.
Los Angeles North High School has a reputation for driving diversity and cultural awareness that resonates with me as an academic professional. In my previous position, I supported key initiatives to drive cultural sensitivity and awareness. I can help further this mission based on the following accomplishments from my teaching career:
Taught English courses to classes of 25 to 30 high school students during long-term teacher absences, implemented lesson plans, and collaborated with educators to develop individualized learning plans, resulting in a 15% improvement in grade point averages
Coordinated with faculty, parents, and administrators to drive diversity and cultural awareness across the school and classrooms, which included planning workshops and school events
Provided tutoring services to students after school and refined curriculum based on learning strengths, weaknesses, and individual needs
I look forward to speaking with you further about how my academic background can aid your organization in driving diversity and inclusion within the classroom. Feel free to contact me for additional information at your convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.
Eric Johnson
Hiring Manager
North Philadelphia Elementary
(987) 654-3210 [email protected]
Dear Mr. Johnson,
As you can see from my attached resume, I have 10 years of experience working within the Philadelphia Public School System as a substitute teacher. My proudest accomplishment in my career has been integrating classroom technology and e-learning solutions during the global pandemic for West Valley Public Schools. My experience can be a strong asset to your organization to deliver quality education to students during COVID-19.
North Philadelphia Elementary’s reputation for innovation and education technology attracts me to apply for this role. My expertise in virtual learning can aid your school based on the following professional achievements from my career:
Provided instruction as a substitute teacher to grades three through eight in math, science, and language arts, which included supporting the integration of new smartboard technology to enhance student academic performance and engagement
Supported the transition to virtual learning for students during COVID-19, provided technology training to over 15 teachers, and improved test scores by up to 25% on average
Coordinated with parents, teachers, and administrators to identify solutions to issues with Zoom instruction and provide laptops and tablets to underprivileged students
I look forward to scheduling an interview to provide more insights into how my background in education technology can benefit your organization. You can contact me at your convenience with any questions regarding my experience. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Rebecca Marquez
How To Write a Substitute Teacher Cover Letter
A great substitute teacher cover letter needs to encapsulate the most compelling aspects of your career in education. Emphasize the positive impact you had on your students despite the limited time you spent with them as a substitute. Highlight your ability to adapt quickly to new classroom environments while maintaining the quality of instruction. Below, we’ll provide guidance to help you build each section of your substitute teacher cover letter:
1. Contact information and salutation
In the header of your substitute teacher cover letter, list your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn URL. This allows potential employers to easily reach you for interview opportunities. It’s also important to address the hiring manager by name — Mr. or Ms. [Last Name]. This shows you’ve taken the time to research the company before applying, which demonstrates your genuine enthusiasm for the position. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, use some variation of “Dear Hiring Manager” as an alternative.
2. Introduction
Start your substitute cover letter with a strong opening paragraph to introduce yourself and convey your interest in the job. Highlight your years of experience as a substitute teacher and call out specific achievements to differentiate yourself from other applicants, such as improving test scores and maximizing academic performance.
In the example below, the candidate focuses on how they collaborated with faculty to create diverse and inclusive learning environments. This shows that they can integrate themselves into new organizations quickly and that their personal values align with the school they’re targeting. Highlighting these unique details will go a long way in enhancing the appeal of your substitute cover letter’s introduction.
Example:
With over five years of teaching experience, I excel in developing innovative strategies to improve student academic performance. As a substitute teacher at Santa Cruz High School, I coordinated with teachers and education teams to create inclusive learning environments centered on diversity and empowerment. I can bring the same level of success to your organization in the substitute teacher position.
3. Body paragraphs
In the body paragraphs of your substitute teacher cover letter, mention something specific about the school’s reputation or mission statement and why this draws you to apply for the position. Include a key achievement from your teaching career that shows how you align with the organization’s values and needs. Then, create a bulleted list that details your career accomplishments and knowledge of cutting-edge teaching strategies. Incorporate hard numbers and data to convey the positive impact you’ve had on student development throughout your career.
Example:
Los Angeles North High School has a reputation for driving diversity and cultural awareness that resonates with me as an academic professional. In my previous position, I supported key initiatives to drive cultural sensitivity and awareness. I can help further this mission based on the following accomplishments from my teaching career:
Taught English courses to classes of 25 to 30 high school students during long-term teacher absences, implemented lesson plans, and collaborated with educators to develop individualized learning plans, resulting in a 15% improvement in grade point averages
Coordinated with faculty, parents, and administrators to drive diversity and cultural awareness across the school and classrooms, which included planning workshops and school events
4. Substitute teacher skills and qualifications
Instead of providing a list of skills on your substitute teacher cover letter, tactically integrate key terms and instructional techniques into your paragraphs. Although much of this information has already been featured on your resume, you can show potential employers how you’ve applied cutting-edge teaching strategies to support your students. Below, we’ve compiled a list of substitute teacher skills to consider adding to your document:
Key Skills and Qualifications
Behavioral analysis
Classroom management
Communication
Cooperative learning
Curriculum development
Differentiated instruction
Education technology
E-learning
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Holistic learning
IEPs
Interactive learning
Lesson planning
Secondary education
Student advocacy
Student assessment
Student-centered learning
Teaching
Team leadership
Tutoring
5. Closing section
Feature a call to action in the closing paragraph of your substitute teacher cover letter. Invite the hiring manager to schedule an interview or contact you for more information on your teaching background. Emphasize how your unique experiences as an educator can help their students grow academically and emotionally. Be sure to thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration in the last sentence.
Example:
I look forward to speaking with you further about how my academic background can aid your organization in driving diversity and inclusion within the classroom. Feel free to contact me for additional information at your convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Aaron Taylor
Substitute Teacher Cover Letter Tips
1. Emphasize relationship building and classroom management skills
Quickly building rapport with students is particularly important for substitutes to create safe and effective learning environments. Because substitute teachers are not familiar with the students, they need strong classroom management skills to deliver quality instruction. As you build your content, heavily emphasize both of these skill sets using tangible examples from your experience.
2. Showcase cutting-edge teaching strategies
To make a lasting impression on the hiring manager, feature specific teaching strategies and learning modalities that match the job description. If a school prides itself on social-emotional learning, emphasize this in your introductory paragraph. Differentiated instruction, cooperative learning, and lesson internalization are also important to highlight, as this shows potential employers you’re fully up to date with the latest teaching trends.
3. Emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion
Building safe and inclusive learning environments is a top priority for school districts. Instead of only mentioning the subjects and grades you taught, demonstrate your ability to foster cultural awareness, inclusion, and empathy in the classroom. This shows that you can help students grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
Substitute Teacher Cover Letter FAQs
1. Why should I include a substitute teacher cover letter?-
While a cover letter is not always required for substitute teaching positions, it can help to bolster your application. Even for a short-term teaching assignment, schools want to ensure their students are receiving quality instruction during the teacher’s absence. The cover letter allows you to engage with hiring managers differently than the resume, emphasizing unique aspects of who you are as a teacher and education professional.
2. How long should my substitute teacher cover letter be?-
It’s best to keep your cover letter concise and focused, as an excess amount of content might overwhelm the reader. Limit your cover letter to only three to four paragraphs, with an emphasis on the most relevant and impressive aspects of your teaching experience.
3. How do I make my substitute teacher cover letter stand out?-
To make your cover letter shine, you need to tell your unique story as an educator. Convey your passion and commitment to enriching the lives of students and helping them grow. Providing specific details of your personal experiences as a teacher will always be more impactful than simply listing vague job duties.
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Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).
